By Adama Makasuba
The governments of The Gambia and Senegal have reached a significant agreement after a week-long cross-border dispute involving their transport unions. The disagreement, which was centered around the implementation of the Gambia Revenue Authority E-tracking system, has been resolved. This system had imposed a D1,600 tax on each truck crossing the Gambian borders, leading to the dispute.
Transport ministers from both countries and diplomats convened at MansaKonko on Gambian soil to seek a diplomatic resolution to the issue. Following extensive discussions behind closed doors, the two nations agreed on a five-point resolution, which included upholding the disputed tracker fees for Senegalese drivers.
Gambian Minister of Transport Ebrima Sillah expressed strong optimism that the conclusion of the meeting would resolve many issues. He reassured the audience of both countries’ unwavering commitment to resolving the crisis, emphasizing the unity and cooperation between the nations. He declared the day as a historic milestone between the two countries, signaling a path toward genuine integration as The Gambia is fully dedicated to resolving the border crisis.
Senegalese Minister of Infrastructure and Land Transport and Aerial El Malick Ndiaye underscored that representatives from The Gambia were sent to Senegal for the first time to discuss this crisis, leading to the second meeting. He hoped for a favorable resolution and a return to normalcy, enabling both nations to focus on other pertinent matters. He emphasized the shared identity of the two countries, noting that The Gambia and Senegal are united.
