Gambia Invites Bids for Brand-new terminal at Banjul International Airport
The Gambia has officially opened the bidding process for the construction of a brand-new terminal at Banjul International Airport, marking a pivotal step in its broader vision to transform air travel infrastructure across West Africa.
The Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure (MOTWI), in collaboration with the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), is spearheading the ambitious redevelopment, seeking capable international and regional bidders to submit proposals ahead of the 27 June 2025 deadline.
“This initiative is more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about rethinking the way Gambia connects with the world,” said a spokesperson from MOTWI. “With increasing passenger numbers and heightened security demands, there’s never been a more pressing time to expand.”
Banjul International Airport has long served as the primary air gateway to The Gambia. However, over the past decade, the airport has faced mounting pressure due to a steady uptick in passenger traffic. According to the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), Africa’s air passenger growth is among the fastest globally, and the Gambia is no exception.
In recent years, the terminal has grappled with congestion issues—both airside and landside—creating operational bottlenecks. The apron has become overcrowded, and the passenger terminal is stretched beyond its intended capacity. A lack of modern ancillary infrastructure, including updated baggage handling systems, lounges, and security facilities, has also placed the airport at a disadvantage when competing with regional hubs such as Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport and Abidjan’s Félix-Houphouët-Boigny Airport.
The financing strategy for the Banjul terminal project is expected to blend public investment with strategic partnerships, including support from international development banks and private sector consortia. While the Gambia Government has committed seed funding through MOTWI, further capital is anticipated via concessional loans, grants, and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangements. Talks are reportedly ongoing with institutions such as the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), both of which have a track record of supporting aviation infrastructure across the continent. By leveraging external financing, the government aims to ensure fiscal prudence while unlocking long-term value for the national economy. The project’s financial structure will likely include performance-based contracts to ensure accountability, with strong emphasis on transparency and adherence to international procurement standards.
The proposed terminal is expected to significantly boost capacity and enhance passenger experience, all while aligning with international aviation safety and security standards.
Key components of the project include:
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A modern passenger terminal building designed to handle increased throughput
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Expansion and rehabilitation of the aircraft apron
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Updated cargo handling and logistics zones
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State-of-the-art security screening and baggage handling systems
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Integration of digital systems for ticketing, immigration, and customs
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Improved facilities for ground transport and parking
Moreover, the plan ties into Gambia’s National Development Plan (2023–2027), which includes infrastructure modernisation as a key pillar. The new terminal is expected not just to serve local needs but to act as a regional transit hub, increasing connectivity across West Africa and beyond.
Situated on the Atlantic coast, The Gambia is geographically well-placed to serve as a bridge between Europe and West Africa. Airlines such as Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, and Turkish Airlines already operate regular flights into Banjul, underscoring the location’s appeal.
The government aims to harness this potential further by creating facilities that can support long-haul and regional flights alike. By alleviating current congestion and increasing efficiency, the new terminal will enable Banjul to better serve not only commercial airlines but also emerging sectors such as air cargo and private aviation.
“We’re laying the foundation for sustained growth in aviation, tourism, and logistics,” noted the GCAA Director-General. “This is an opportunity to make Banjul a more competitive and attractive destination in the region.”
The submission deadline for all technical and financial proposals is set for 27 June 2025 at 12:30 pm GMT. According to the MOTWI and GCAA, all proposals must adhere to the guidelines set out in the official tender document, which includes technical requirements, financial frameworks, and environmental impact considerations.
Interested bidders can access the full tender documentation via the GCAA’s procurement portal. Questions and requests for clarification must be submitted no later than 10 June 2025, ensuring all parties have time to revise their bids accordingly.
Eligible firms are expected to have:
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Demonstrated experience in airport construction or large-scale public infrastructure
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A strong financial track record
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Capacity to mobilise equipment and labour swiftly
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Commitment to sustainability and environmental standards
While the infrastructure itself will be a physical transformation, the ripple effects are expected to touch many facets of Gambian society. From construction jobs and skills training to long-term roles in operations and management, the terminal will be a vehicle for both direct and indirect employment.
Tourism, a cornerstone of The Gambia’s economy, is also set to benefit. A better airport experience encourages repeat visits and increases the country’s attractiveness to tour operators and business investors alike.
In line with ICAO and IATA environmental guidelines, the new terminal is expected to incorporate sustainable design principles. Renewable energy sources, water conservation systems, and energy-efficient lighting are all being considered to minimise the airport’s environmental footprint.
Digitalisation is also high on the agenda. From automated check-in kiosks to advanced surveillance systems and passenger flow monitoring, the emphasis is on creating a smart terminal that’s both resilient and future-ready.
Gambia’s decision to upgrade its primary airport terminal isn’t just about fixing short-term issues—it’s about strategic long-term positioning. By investing in high-quality, scalable infrastructure today, the country is betting on a more connected and economically vibrant tomorrow.
With West Africa poised for growth and increasing competition among regional airports, Banjul International has its sights set on becoming a leading player. And for global contractors and investors, this is a rare chance to help shape the future of African aviation.
This landmark development represents a bold leap forward for The Gambia, reinforcing its position as a regional connector and economic contender. As the country welcomes proposals for the Banjul terminal project, the message is clear: the sky is no longer the limit—it’s the starting point.
