Operations at the Port of Banjul came to a standstill on Thursday as employees of the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) launched a sit-down strike, demanding the resolution of long-standing welfare concerns and the return of staff welfare responsibilities to the GPA from private operator Alport Banjul.
The industrial action has effectively paralyzed port activities, raising concerns about potential economic disruptions in the country’s main gateway for trade and commerce.
Adama Jatta, President of the Staff Welfare Association, said workers would not resume duties until their demands are fully met. The strike stems from allegations that both GPA and Alport Banjul failed to comply with a directive from the Office of the President regarding staff welfare matters. Workers are pushing to transfer human resources responsibilities back to the GPA to protect their rights and benefits better.
In a swift response issued on Thursday, June 4, 2026, GPA Management described the circulating claims as “false and unfounded.” The authority stated that staff welfare issues have been resolved and outlined several measures implemented jointly with Alport Banjul.
According to the GPA statement, a joint HR Committee comprising representatives from GPA, Alport, and the Alport Staff Association has been established to address all welfare concerns. Salaries and entitlements for April and May 2026 were paid on time, while miscellaneous and personal loans were disbursed before the Tobaski festival.
The management further noted that both parties have signed an HR Resolution to tackle outstanding issues, and the matter of overtime payments has been resolved with additional benefits for staff.
The statement urged the public to disregard what it called misleading information and affirmed ongoing commitment to staff welfare.
As of Thursday midnight, the striking workers showed no signs of returning to work, with the situation remaining tense. The development comes amid broader efforts to improve labor relations at the strategic port facility. Observers are calling for swift dialogue between the Staff Welfare Association, GPA, and Alport Banjul to prevent prolonged disruption to port services.
