Gambia: Finance Minister Warns of Rising Debt, Bets On Reforms in 2026 Budget

Gambia: Finance Minister Warns of Rising Debt, Bets On Reforms in 2026 Budget

The Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs, Hon. Seedy Keita, on Friday tabled the Draft 2026 Budget before the National Assembly, promising stronger revenue growth, tighter spending control, and record investments in agriculture, education, and health despite challenge in debt rise.

Gambia’s 2026 Budget Eyes D59.4 bn with Major Tax Surge and Debt Pressure

By: Fatou Krubally In a detailed presentation to the National Assembly of The Gambia, the government unveiled its 2026 fiscal plan anchored on ambitious revenue growth, targeted investment in human development, and a looming debt-service burden. The budget projects total receipts of D59,361,095,000 (Dalasi ’000s) for 2026, up from D52,980,894,000 in 2025. Of this, tax revenue is expected to grow sharply — for example, taxes on goods and services…

Finance Minister warns of rising debt, bets on reforms in 2026 budget

The 2026 Budget, described by Minister Keita as a strategic blueprint to consolidate economic gains and build a resilient Gambia, projects total revenue and grants at D35.87 billion, marking an 11.7% increase over 2025. This strong performance, he said, will be powered by a 28% surge in tax revenue, driven by improved compliance and digital innovation across revenue systems. The minister highlighted key initiatives such as e-invoicing, a digital…