Maritime & Transport Business Solutions (MTBS) is proud to have served as the transaction advisor for the landmark Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the Gambia Ports Authority and the Turkish conglomerate Albayrak Group. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the modernization of The Gambia’s maritime sector and represents the largest infrastructure and port project in the country’s history.
Under the 30-year concession agreement, Alport Banjul, a Special Purpose Vehicle between the Turkish conglomerate Albayrak Group and the Gambia Ports Authority, has assumed management of the Port of Banjul with a mandate to upgrade key port facilities, develop a new deep-sea port in Sanyang, and establish terminals in Kaur and Basse. The agreement, which was signed in July 2024 and became effective in February 2025, is designed to enhance The Gambia’s role as a leading trade and logistics hub in West Africa. It also stands as the largest foreign direct investment ever received by The Gambia.
Since Alport Banjul took over operations, the port has achieved a remarkable operational milestone: for the first time, there are no ships queuing to dock. Previously, as many as eleven vessels would wait offshore to discharge cargo at the peak of congestion, causing significant delays and additional costs for Gambian businesses. Alport Banjul Manager Cem Ozturk announced this achievement during a recent press tour, noting that the situation is expected to be further improved with the arrival of new equipment and continued modernization effort. He emphasized that this turnaround allows Gambian businesses to ship goods directly to Banjul without fear of delays, which will strengthen the local economy and increase confidence in the port’s capacity.
MTBS played a central role in supporting the Gambia Ports Authority and the government throughout the transaction and negotiation process. The firm provided technical, financial, legal and commercial analyses, ensuring that the concession agreement was structured to deliver long-term benefits for the country.
If you would like to learn more about MTBS and its expertise in structuring port PPPs, please do not hesitate to get in touch.