Gambian President Adama Barrow has asked for calm as electricity shortages cause anger among people and lead to protests in the capital, Banjul and nearby areas.
People have said there are blackouts that last up to 48 hours with people marching in the streets on Monday night burning tires and stopping traffic. Police used tear gas to push people near the main office of the national electricity company, NAWEC.
Speaking to the country on Tuesday Barrow admitted the problems caused by the power cuts including challenges for families, businesses and children who study at night. He called the electricity problem an emergency and a security issue while telling people not to break public buildings.
Barrow said a new 24-megawatt power unit at the Brikama power station should be ready by the end of October. He also said a deal was made for a 50MW solar power plant in Soma and new machines should arrive during the week.
Gallo Saidy, head of NAWEC said part of the shortages came from power coming from the local grid and less rain. The company also said hot weather and problems, with the power machines made the problem worse.
The power problem happens months before Gambia’s election, in which Barrow is trying for a disputed third term.
