Major investment in agricultural infrastructure
The Gambia is preparing to open its first dedicated agro-logistics centre, a $3.2 million facility designed to reduce post-harvest losses, strengthen agricultural businesses and increase the income earned by farmers. Construction at Maka Farafenni in the North Bank Region is expected to be completed by the end of October.
Modern storage for Gambian produce
The development is being delivered through the Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development Project, known as GIRAV. Financing has been provided by the World Bank and the Gambian government as part of a wider programme to modernise agriculture and improve food security.
The centre will include refrigerated storage for fruit, vegetables and other perishable products. Dry warehouses will accommodate onions, grains and produce that can be stored without cooling. Sorting and grading areas, a weighbridge, logistics facilities and industrial plots are also included in the development.
Reducing losses after harvest
Gambia’s Agriculture Minister Demba Sabally estimates that approximately 30 per cent of agricultural production is lost after harvesting, particularly among perishable crops. Limited storage, transport and processing capacity can leave farmers with little time to find buyers before their produce deteriorates.
The new centre is intended to extend the commercial life of harvested goods. Farmers should consequently have more time to negotiate with traders, supply larger customers and avoid selling produce immediately at unfavourable prices.
Reducing waste could also increase the amount of domestically produced food reaching Gambian markets without requiring an equivalent increase in cultivated land. This would support the government’s ambition to improve national food self-sufficiency by 2030.
New opportunities for local businesses
The project could create opportunities beyond farming. Transport operators, food processors, packaging companies, wholesalers and retailers may benefit from a more organised agricultural supply chain.
Reliable cold storage can make it easier for businesses to aggregate produce from multiple small farms and supply hotels, restaurants, supermarkets and institutional buyers. Consistent quality and volume could also help Gambian companies explore export opportunities in neighbouring markets.
Commercial spaces, shops, training facilities, food outlets and banking services are planned within the centre. These additions could encourage small businesses to establish operations close to the storage and distribution infrastructure.
Infrastructure reaches final construction phase
The development was reported to be approximately 75 per cent complete during the latest inspection. Materials required for the remaining work are already at the site, with installation expected to continue ahead of the October completion target.
Supporting infrastructure will include an electricity distribution system, internal roads, drainage, sewage treatment and waste-management facilities. The government is considering formally opening the centre during the first week of November.
Execution will determine the impact
The investment addresses a well-established weakness in Gambia’s agricultural economy, but its long-term success will depend on reliable electricity, affordable storage charges and efficient management. Farmers must also have dependable transport connections to the facility and access to information about available services.
If these conditions are met, the centre could improve rural incomes, strengthen local agribusinesses and reduce Gambia’s dependence on imported food. It may also provide a model for similar logistics facilities in other agricultural regions of the country.
Newshub Editorial in Africa – 18 August 2026
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