Zakat Foundation of America Explores Strategic Cooperation with Alport Gambia to Strengthen Humanitarian Operations Across Africa

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Zakat Foundation of America is exploring new opportunities for strategic cooperation with Alport Gambia to expand its humanitarian reach across Africa, improve logistics efficiency, and accelerate the delivery of essential aid to vulnerable communities. 

As part of these efforts, Zakat Foundation of America Executive Director Halil Demir visited the Port of Banjul in The Gambia, accompanied by Türkiye's Ambassador to The Gambia, Özgür Gökmen. The delegation was hosted by Alport Gambia Country Representative Salih Levent Kaçar, who provided insights into the port's ongoing modernization, operational improvements, and growing regional logistics capabilities. 

Improving Humanitarian Logistics Through Modern Infrastructure 

One of the key highlights of the visit was the remarkable transformation of the Port of Banjul following Albayrak Group's takeover of port operations. 

Previously, unloading vessels required an average of approximately 197 hours. Through operational improvements introduced under Albayrak Group's management, that time has been reduced to just 17 hours. 

This substantial increase in efficiency has made the port significantly more attractive for international trade, transportation, and logistics activities. 

For humanitarian organizations such as Zakat Foundation of America, improved port operations could create valuable opportunities to transport food supplies, emergency relief materials, medical equipment, and other essential goods more quickly and cost-effectively. 

Reducing delays at ports is particularly important during humanitarian emergencies, when the timely arrival of supplies can make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable families and communities. 

Expanding Zakat Foundation of America's Humanitarian Presence in Africa 

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Across Africa, the Zakat Foundation of America works to address critical needs through food security programs, access to clean water, healthcare services, educational opportunities, orphan sponsorship, and emergency humanitarian assistance. 

As part of its long-term strategy, Zakat Foundation of America is exploring the possibility of establishing a regional humanitarian coordination hub in The Gambia. 

Such a center could support the planning, storage, transportation, and distribution of humanitarian supplies to communities across West Africa and potentially other parts of the continent. 

By strengthening regional coordination and logistics capabilities, the organization aims to reduce operational costs, improve response times, and maximize the impact of donor contributions. 

Exploring Strategic Cooperation with Alport Gambia 

The discussions highlighted the importance of collaboration between humanitarian organizations, infrastructure operators, and international partners in developing sustainable solutions to logistical challenges. 

Alport Gambia's operational capacity, combined with Zakat Foundation of America's international humanitarian network, could provide a foundation for more efficient aid distribution across the region. 

The delegation also examined opportunities related to cargo handling, storage, transportation, and the movement of essential relief supplies to neighboring countries. 

The visit also highlighted the potential role of Turkish infrastructure investments in supporting humanitarian initiatives and regional development across Africa. 

The potential collaboration between Zakat Foundation of America and Alport Gambia represents an opportunity to connect international humanitarian expertise with modern logistics infrastructure. 

By exploring The Gambia's potential as a regional humanitarian coordination and distribution hub, Zakat Foundation of America aims to further strengthen its presence across Africa and ensure that essential assistance reaches those who need it most. 

Published: October 23, 2026
Categories: Stories, The Gambia