African Development Bank commissions hybrid ferry to modernise Gambia river transport

The African Development Bank has financed a $20.56 million green ferry under the Banjul Port Expansion Project, commissioning the hybrid vessel to connect Gambia's North and South Banks. The Barra Ferry, capable of carrying 1,000 passengers and 50 vehicles, supports climate-resilient transport and reduces emissions.

The African Development Bank Group has commissioned a new green ferry as part of the Banjul Port Expansion Project in The Gambia, a $20.56 million initiative financed through the African Development Fund, according to an official announcement. The Barra Ferry, equipped with hybrid green technology, can carry 1,000 passengers and over 50 vehicles, designed to reduce emissions and lower operational costs.

The African Development Bank has partnered with The Gambia since 1974, with cumulative commitments exceeding $450 million across transport, energy, agriculture, water, sanitation, governance, and social services. The active portfolio as of March 2026 comprises 17 projects valued at approximately $252 million, with transport accounting for the largest share.

The River Gambia divides the country, making reliable ferry services essential for connectivity between the North and South Banks. The new vessel addresses decades of capacity constraints amid growing vehicular traffic, freight movement, and passenger volumes. The project aligns with the Bank's focus on low-carbon, climate-resilient infrastructure. This development matters for West African transport infrastructure, where river crossings are critical bottlenecks for domestic trade and regional connectivity.

The hybrid ferry model demonstrates how multilateral development finance can support emissions reduction while improving service reliability and safety. For the maritime and transport sectors, the project signals ongoing investment in green vessel technology for developing economies. Stakeholders including logistics operators, port authorities, and regional trade participants stand to benefit from improved crossing capacity and reduced transit delays. The investment also supports The Gambia's National Development Plan priorities for transport infrastructure.