PMIS rollout completed

Digital transformation for port systems

THE GAMBIA: The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA) has completed the roll out of the Port Management Information System (PMIS) in line with their commitment to progress towards smarter, efficient, and data-driven port operations. The project was delivered successfully with the expertise of Pro-develop and Lasting solutions, alongside GPA’s Dedicated IT team.

A ceremony was held on Wednesday to celebrate the milestone and bring together a cross-section of Directors and key stakeholders, including GPA Board Chairman Kebba Tamsir Njie, Managing Director Ousman M. Jobarteh, Pro develop Deputy COO Christophe Joubert and Deputy Managing Director Alport Banjul Salih levant, who commended the GPA–Alport partnership and the steps taken to improve service delivery through technology.

The PMIS went live on April 3, 2025, after a six-month implementation process led by Prodevelop, a Spanish-based firm with experience digitizing over 200 ports worldwide. The system, known as Posidonia, now supports GPA’s core operational functions including port calls, vessel authorizations, cargo handling, invoicing, and electronic document submission.

“It’s good to have a system, but we must ensure continuous training and development of users.”

With real-time analytics, automated workflows, and improved stakeholder coordination, the PMIS is positioning the Port of Banjul to meet international standards and strengthen its role in regional and global trade. He underscored the importance of capacity building, stressing that technology is only as effective as its users. “It’s good to have a system, but we must ensure continuous training and development of users,” GPA MD Jobarteh said.

He also highlighted the strategic shift in GPA’s role as regulators under the Alport concession, and this Digital integration and access to real-time data across systems is essential. He applauded the IT department for leading the process.

Christophe Joubert Prodevelop Chief Operations Officer took the audience through a presentation showcasing key features and benefits of the PMIS. The system now manages everything from berth scheduling and pilotage to cargo operations, billing, finance, and analytics. Its real-time dashboards and modular design also allow for future integration with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), Port Community Systems (PCS), and the upcoming Vessel Traffic Service (VTS).

Beginning in September 2024, the project included the deployment of software infrastructure via AWS, diagnostics and strategic planning, module development and testing, followed by hands-on user training and support. Director of Information Technology Ousman Jammeh noted that the project involved weekly support meetings and active user feedback, helping to ensure a smoother transition.

Director of Harbours Captain Kulay Manneh in his Remarks reflected on the broader value of the system. “PMIS will help us optimise port calls, improve safety compliance, and generate actionable insights from data. This is not the end but the beginning of a smarter and more efficient port,” he said. He encouraged all stakeholders to embrace the system fully, especially as GPA prepares to introduce VTS soon.

PHOTO: Adobe Photostock