GDC Demands Urgent Action over Gambia’s Worsening Electricity Crisis

The Gambia Democratic Congress (GDC) has raised alarm over the country’s prolonged electricity crisis, warning that persistent power outages are inflicting severe economic and social costs while calling on the government and the National Water and Electricity Company (NAWEC) to provide immediate solutions.

In a statement, the opposition party described the recurring blackouts as a national emergency that is disrupting households, businesses, healthcare services, communications and other critical sectors of the economy.

The Party said businesses are losing millions of dalasis daily due to rising operating costs, while families are spending scarce resources on fuel, water and other basic necessities to cope with unreliable electricity supply.

It also warned that the tourism sector, a key contributor to the Gambian economy, is facing reputational risks as prolonged outages undermine confidence among visitors and investors.

While acknowledging that utility providers may encounter unforeseen operational challenges, the party argued that Gambians deserve greater transparency after enduring weeks of uncertainty and hardship.

The Democratic Congress called on the government and NAWEC to publicly explain the causes of the ongoing crisis, outline the immediate steps being taken to restore stable electricity supply and present a long-term strategy to prevent similar disruptions.

According to the party, reliable electricity is essential for economic growth, quality healthcare, education, job creation and national development, stressing that sustained progress cannot be achieved amid chronic power shortages.

The opposition also urged authorities to prioritise prudent management of public resources and accelerate efforts to build a more resilient energy sector capable of meeting the country’s growing electricity needs.

Reaffirming its support for affected citizens, the Gambia Democratic Congress said the hardships being experienced by Gambians should not become the norm and insisted that lasting solutions must be delivered without further delay.