Gambia Ferry Services

Before sending my Eid greetings to the staff and the general public, I would like to sincerely thank all staff members for their outstanding performance during the Eid operations at the ferry terminal.
The true meaning of commitment and teamwork was clearly demonstrated throughout the festive period. This is not because we are perfect, but because the collaboration, dedication, and determination shown by the staff were truly remarkable.
Following the announcement that three ferries would operate during the Eid celebrations, the influx of passengers and vehicles increased significantly. Despite the pressure and intensity of the operations, the situation was professionally managed to ensure that everyone reached their various destinations safely and smoothly.
I urge all staff members to continue embracing this spirit of unity and dedication in serving our people with diligence and professionalism.
As a public institution, people will always have different perspectives on how we operate. However, our duty remains to give our very best in meeting customer satisfaction. We also welcome constructive criticism, as it creates room for learning and continuous improvement in our services.
We would also like to remind the public that the ferry service belongs to them. Their suggestions, contributions, and cooperation are always welcomed as we work together towards growth and better service delivery.
In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt Eid greetings to every member of staff and the general public. May you all have a happy, peaceful, and joyful Eid celebration. May we continue to witness many more years in good health, peace, and prosperity.

Thank you.
Fabakary Manka
General Manager

PUBLIC UPDATE

The Management of the Gambia Ferry Services wishes to inform the general public that all three ferries will be in active service today.

However, the Barra Ferry will be temporarily withdrawn from operations at around 2:00 PM to allow Damen engineers to conduct a special onboard training session with our local engineers. As stated in our earlier updates, the Barra Ferry is scheduled to be officially handed over to Management for full operations on Sunday 24th May 2026

The public is also reminded that the Eid ferry operation commences tomorrow with all three ferries expected to ply the route to facilitate smooth travel during the festive period.

Management wishes all its customers a smooth, reliable, and safe journey to their various destinations.

Office of the PRO

Following an intense discussion between the Ferry Services Management and Damen engineers, a conclusion has been reached to allow the Barra Ferry to operate today at 6:00 PM in order to help decongest the terminal.

The public is hereby reminded that this agreement is only for today.
Therefore, the optimization arrangement will remain in effect until Saturday, 23rd May 2026.

Office of the PRO .

Public update

The management wishes to
inform the general public that the team from Damen Netherlands has commenced the inspection and optimization of the Barra Ferry in line with their contractual obligations.

The exercise began today and will continue until 23rd May 2026.
During this period, the team will assess the current performance of the ferry and its onboard machinery systems. Necessary inspections, adjustments, and optimizations will also be carried out to enhance overall system efficiency, safety, and reliability.

Furthermore, management informs the general public that Tobaski ferry operations will commence on Sunday, 24th May 2026. Passengers are strongly advised to begin their journeys early in order to avoid rush hours and congestion at the ferry terminal.

Office of the PRO.

The Management of The Gambia Ferry Services today presented a Certificate of Appreciation to the Ghanaian Contingent (Ghancoy 9) in recognition of their dedication, commitment, and valuable contributions to the infrastructural development and security enhancement of the ferry services.

During their one year mandate, the contingent played a key role in strengthening security at ferry terminals, especially during peak operational periods, helping to ensure the smooth movement of passengers and vehicles while maintaining public safety.

Speaking on behalf of the management, Mr. Sulayman B. Sanyang, Staff president expressed deep appreciation for the contingent’s professionalism, dedication, and support. He highlighted the strong collaboration and cordial relationship established between both institutions, noting that the contingent’s contributions significantly improved operational efficiency, security, and infrastructural growth within the ferry services.

On behalf of the Ghanaian Contingent, Major Dawuda Abdul Samed Vincent thanked the management of The Gambia Ferry Services for their partnership, cooperation, and hospitality throughout the team’s stay in The Gambia. He also commended the mutual respect and collaboration shared between both parties.

The presentation ceremony marked another milestone in the longstanding relationship and cooperation between The Gambia Ferry Services and the Ghanaian Contingent.

Office of the PRO

Truck Driver Found Dead Inside Vehicle at the Banjul ferry Terminal, Early Morning .

A truck driver identified as Omar Bah, a native of Kerr Sare Samba Nyado, North Bank Region, was found dead inside his truck in the early hours of today at the Banjul ferry terminal.

According to his apprentice, Ebrima Bah, the deceased was an asthma patient who occasionally suffered attacks, and he believes this may have contributed to the sudden death.

Ebrima explained that they were together until around 4:00 a.m. before Omar entered the truck to sleep.
The incident came to light upon the arrival of the ferry when vehicles began preparing to board. Fellow workers alerted Omar to move the truck, but he failed to respond. Concerned by the silence, they checked inside the vehicle and discovered him lifeless.

The loading supervisor at the terminal immediately contacted the police and medical personnel, who later arrived at the scene for further investigation.

Authorities are yet to officially determine the cause of his death.

Office of the PRO.

PUBLIC UPDATE

Planned Inspection and Optimization of the Barra Ferry

The Damen Shipyard has scheduled a service period for the Barra Ferry as part of its contractual obligations. During this time, the vessel will be taken out of operation for six days, from 18th to 23rd May 2026.

This planned service will enable Damen engineers to conduct a comprehensive inspection of the ferry, address issues identified by their resident engineer onboard the Barra ferry, together with our local engineers during operations, and resolve any warranty related component concerns.

The team will also assess the current performance of the ferry and / or onboard mechinary systems and carry out the necessary inspections, adjustments, and optimizations to enhance overall system efficiency and reliability.

This operation forms part of the ongoing contractual agreement between the Government of The Gambia and Damen Shipyard, hence the vessel is still under the one year warranty period

We apologize for any inconvenience this temporary suspension of service may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Office of the PRO.

Congratulations to the Gambia Ferry Service!

For the first time, the Gambia Ferry Service as an institution, participated in the May Day sports and finished in 5th position.
what a great achievement for Ferries!

Special thanks to our General Manager and the entire management team for their support. Appreciation also goes to the Sports Committee, especially Babacarr and his team, for their wonderful work.

We are coming back stronger next year! 💪

The Management of The Gambia Ferry Services extends its warmest congratulations to the following members of staff on their outstanding academic achievements:
Amie Ann BSc Honours) in Procurement and Supply Chain Management

Ebrima Badjie BSc (Honours) Information Systems

Sarjo Sawo BSc in Management

Ngoneh Gaye B.A in Development Studies

Ansumana Saho BSc in Public Administration

Management commends their dedication and hard work in attaining these qualifications. It is our hope that the knowledge and skills acquired will serve as a valuable asset to the institution and contribute meaningfully to its continued growth and development.
We wish them all continued success in their professional and personal endeavors.