Turkish Ambassador Says Karpowership Could Return As Gambia Seeks Way Out of Power Crisis

Outgoing Turkish Ambassador to The Gambia, Fahir Turker Oba, stated that the door remains open for the Turkish energy company Karpowership to return to the country as it continues to navigate significant electricity supply challenges.

Speaking during a farewell engagement with the Gambian media on Thursday, 10 September 2026, Ambassador Oba clarified that the previous electricity supply agreement with Karpowership was not terminated prematurely but reached its natural conclusion in April 2025. He emphasized that the company was not forced out of the country and that future cooperation remains a possibility.

While the ambassador did not confirm an immediate return, he noted that negotiations between governments and private firms can continue after a contract expires. He cited examples from other nations, such as Guinea, where Karpowership vessels have returned to provide services after a period of absence. He also highlighted the speed at which the company’s floating power-generation model can be deployed compared to the construction of conventional power plants.

Ambassador Oba rejected the characterization of the previous contract’s end as a failure, describing it as a standard investment process where governments test various approaches to meet energy needs. He stressed that The Gambia must continue to invest in a stable electricity grid while diversifying its power sources, including solar energy. However, he cautioned that solar power cannot yet fully replace thermal generation due to current technological and cost limitations.

The ambassador highlighted that energy remains a key pillar of the bilateral relationship between Türkiye and The Gambia, supported by a broad framework agreement signed last year. He noted that Turkish companies have expressed interest in renewable energy projects and potential oil exploration in the country.

Reflecting on his two-and-a-half-year tenure, Ambassador Oba described the bilateral relationship as excellent, spanning defense, security, education, trade, and cultural exchange. He noted that defense and security cooperation, which includes training and equipment for Gambian security forces, remains the “spinal cord” of the partnership.

Regarding other bilateral projects, the ambassador addressed the transition of the Banjul Port to private Turkish management, acknowledging operational challenges but stating that the company is working with the Gambian government to resolve them. He also noted that delays in the Sanyang development project were due to a change in the project’s location, which necessitated a restart of land rights and operational planning.

Ambassador Oba is set to depart The Gambia for a new posting in Sudan. He expressed his commitment to remaining an advocate for The Gambia, stating that he intends to act as an “honorary ambassador” for the country in his future roles.

Article source: allafrica.com | Image credit: Foroyaa