Retired Gambian army captain and now commentator, Samsudeen Sarr, has urged the development of a second major city in The Gambia, saying it should be located in the North Bank Region.

Speaking on national development, Sarr argued that the country cannot continue to rely solely on Banjul and the Greater Banjul Area as its main urban hubs.

A second city, he said, would ease population pressure, attract investment, and drive economic growth.

He recalled previously suggesting to President Adama Barrow the creation of a joint cross-border city in collaboration with Senegal, stretching from Barra through Karang into Kaolack.

Mr Sarr described the vision as a model for Africa, symbolising regional cooperation and unity.

“The city must have a seaport and an airport to be viable,” he said, noting that the transformation may not be visible immediately but would unfold over the next 50 years.

Sarr emphasised that long-term planning and visionary leadership are essential if The Gambia is to prepare for future urban and economic challenges.

By Adama Makasuba