About GMA

Pursuant to Government’s policy on maritime transport and in line with UNCLOS A94 and A217, The Gambia Maritime Administration was established by an Act of the National Assembly called The Gambia Maritime Administration Act 2006, to further strengthen shipping in Gambian waters, monitor, regulate and coordinate affairs in the maritime industry in the country. GMA has a Board of Directors who have an oversight function over the Administration whilst the Director General serves as the head of the institution and he is assisted by a Deputy Director General, Management and Staffs, to coordinate and execute its day to day activities in line with UNCLOS Articles 94 and 217.

The Gambia is the smallest country in mainland Africa, with a land area of about 11,300 square kilometres. Most of the country's coastal development is centred around the Port of Banjul which is the only sea port operated by the Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) since 1972. 

The Gambia is heavily reliant on natural resources like fisheries and agriculture for its  livelihood, hence, there is a clear interest from the maritime sector to protect, preserve, and safeguard the marine environment. The Government has made a commitment to strengthen the position of the Port of Banjul as the gateway to The Gambia and make it competitive in the West Africa sub-region. In addition the river Gambia is suitable for river transport and serve as support for economic activities in the country. This has been well articulated in the National Development Plan (2018-2022) as well as other sectoral policies and strategies. 

The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) was instrumental in establishing a maritime administration for The Gambia. In effect, the IMO’s efforts to assist the country within the context of its Technical Assistance Programme served as a catalyst for the birth of GMA. 

GMA is responsible for implementing/enforcing IMO instruments in respect of Gambian ships and ships of other flags through the enactment of effective legislation (Merchant Shipping Act 2013, the Marine Pollution Act 2013 and the Merchant Shipping Regulations 2014). These national maritime  legislation are the tools for attaining international standards in safety, security and the preservation of the marine environment in Gambian waters. Currently, the Gambia's register is populated with inland water crafts, fishing boats, ferries and GPA crafts. 

Effective maritime legislation will help the Government to enforce mechanisms and procedures for the control of ships and discharges under the respective IMO conventions and other relevant laws including cooperation with the United Nations on matters referred to it and other international bodies on matters of mutual interest. It will also protect the maritime environment and use the potential of the country’s seas to create sustainable jobs that preserve natural resources.