Lamin Jabbi, the Minister for Communications and Digital Economy (MOCDE), on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, provided detailed updates to the National Assembly Members on the ongoing restructuring of state-owned enterprises Gamtel and Gamcel, revealing that the government is negotiating an investment of D6.7 billion for the modernization and commercialization of the telecom giant.
Addressing questions from the Member for Banjul North, the Minister disclosed that the fourth phase of the social plan for staff affected by the restructuring was completed in June 2025, with 486 employees compensated a total of D210,646,493, including six-month notice payments amounting to D32,812,401. Preparations are underway to implement a second phase for an additional 155 staff, with D29 million already approved by the Ministry of Finance and targeted for disbursement before the end of December.
“To address grievances, the Ministry has established a dedicated office at Gamtel’s Serekunda Exchange Complex, while a specialized committee is engaging affected staff to ensure smooth implementation of the social plan,” he said.
The Minister highlighted that Ciceroid Limited has been approved for a public-private partnership to revitalize Gamtel’s infrastructure. At the same time, local bidders Y-Cell and DK Telecoms were evaluated for Gamcel’s sale of its majority stake. Following technical and financial assessments, Y-Cell emerged as the most responsive bidder, proposing to invest 6.7 billion Gambian dalasi. Cabinet has directed negotiations with Y-Cell, with final contract approval pending further deliberation.
Under current proposals, he said the government plans to retain 20 percent ownership of Gamcel, with the investor taking 80 percent, while Gamtel will follow a build-operate-transfer model to modernize infrastructure.
He added that the government anticipates receiving up to D800 million from the first direct payment for the 80 percent shares, with the remaining investment earmarked for network upgrades.
Supplementary questions from lawmakers addressed concerns over the settlement of government arrears to the companies, confirming that ministries and agencies owe over D200 million, and the Ministry affirmed its commitment to clearing these debts.
The Minister also emphasised that the valuation process for both enterprises was conducted by a multi-stakeholder committee comprising representatives from the Ministry, Office of the President, Ministry of Finance, Justice, and the companies themselves, following standard government procedures.
