Transport, Electricity and Communications Priorities in Guinea Bissau

Abstract

This paper details the current situation in Guinea Bissau regarding infrastructure needs and suggests policies for the future. In particular it is noted that the degradation of the country’s only port in Bissau is a serious concern given the likelihood that the port will in a few years cease to be accessible to ocean-going freighters if rehabilitation is not made an immediate priority. While primary roads are in fairly good shape, secondary roads are abysmal and maintenance needs are routinely ignored on all roads. It is shown that completion of bridges connecting Bissau directly to Senegal will have the effect of making Senegalese ports the preferred outlet for many of Guinea Bissau’s exports.