The Gambia National Youth Parliament has asked the government to immediately address the deplorable condition of the ferries to avoid future disasters.

The young parliamentarians plea followed Friday’s engine failure of the Kanilai ferry while transporting passengers to Barra. 

The situation sparked condemnation. Officers of the Gambia navy had to be deployed to rescue the stranded passengers.

In a statement shared with Gambiana, the National Youth Parliament said: “The National Youth Parliament –The Gambia is deeply concerned about the situation unfolding at the Banjul-Barra ferry crossing point. The deteriorating condition of the ferries, coupled with repeated mechanical failures, poses an imminent threat to the lives of passengers who rely on these vessels.

“We call on The Gambia Ferry Service, The Gambia Ports Authority, and the government of The Gambia to prioritise the safety of citizens and swiftly implement measures to rectify the perilous situation.” 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba