Gambia: Continued electricity and water shortages nationwide /update 1

Event

Power and water cuts are becoming increasingly frequent across Gambia, especially in the capital Banjul and its surrounding areas, where frustrations are mounting. Authorities have announced that they are unable to restore regular supply until at least December. The shortages are preventing many companies and workers from operating normally. According to local reports, service interruptions are unpredictable, widespread, and can last for at least five hours per day. Associated social unrest (protests, etc.) cannot be ruled out.

Context

The state-operated water and electricity production and distribution company NAWEC is facing bankruptcy, with the cumulative debt of the company now standing at USD 200 million. According to the company spokesperson for NAWEC, the electricity shortage is also due to reliance on electricity generators that are too old to meet the current electricity demand and need to be replaced.

In July, media reported that the Gambian government was negotiating with the government of Senegal to provide supplemental electricity supplies. Obtaining additional electricity supplies from Senegal is considered a short-term solution, with the Gambian government planning to allow private investors to enter the utilities market in the long-term to increase competition and create a more stable supply.

Advice

Individuals are advised to monitor developments to the situation and avoid any associated protests as violence may flare up without warning. Anticipate likely electricity cuts and keep all battery-powered devices fully charged whenever possible.