Trade unionists, transporters and economic operators from Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Mali and Senegal met in Ziguinchor to create a united framework aimed at combating road harassment at the borders of these countries.

Supported by Gambian port authorities, participants in this conclave, held on August 30, 2025, called for collaboration with governments to eliminate abusive controls and illegal fees that hinder the movement of goods and people. El Hadj Ousseynou Karamba, president of the Syndicat du cadre unitaire du transport routier du Sénégal and coordinator of this initiative, urged stakeholders to commit: "If drivers and transporters no longer suffer harassment, particularly when crossing Gambia, people will have easier access to products, which will improve their daily lives."

He denounced the illegal charges imposed on carriers and freight forwarders, which often violate regional charters ratified by ECOWAS. "All that is needed is for all stakeholders to decide to end these practices and respect the standards for the benefit of the population," he added. Ousmane Diabaté, Director General of the Gambia Port Authority, welcomed the initiative, stressing that the implementation of the decisions depends on the commitment of the stakeholders involved.

This approach comes at a time when carriers are denouncing recurring abuses, such as unjustified seizures or exorbitant fees, which are hindering cross-border trade.

This unitary framework aims to promote regional cooperation aligned with ECOWAS principles, to streamline trade and improve economic conditions in these four countries.