With funding from the European Union, and in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Works and Infrastructure and the National Roads Authority, the three-year programme is set to rehabilitate around 104 km of rural roads in Upper River, North Bank and Central River regions.

In addition, UNOPS will provide technical assistance on labour-based construction methods to targeted communities who will assist in the construction of roads as well as provide technical assistance and trainings on road maintenance management for relevant stakeholders.

To reduce overloading of trucks on road networks, UNOPS will further provide technical assistance and trainings in the creation of axle load control regulations and an axle load control unit for the Gambia.

"UNOPS is excited to participate in this feeder roads and capacity building programme that will benefit the end users of the feeder roads and those responsible for road management, including routine maintenance," said Nick Hodgson, UNOPS Country Manager.  He added: "We are also happy to directly contribute to Sustainable Development Goals 1 (no poverty) and 8 (decent work and economic growth) as a result of increased economic activity along the feeder roads."

The programme supports Government development efforts and will cost around 10.3 million Euro.