Gambia Unveils D52.4 Billion Budget for 2026, Prioritises Health, Education and Agriculture

The Government of The Gambia has presented a D52.4 billion national budget for 2026, centred on the theme “Improving the Well-being and Quality of Life of Gambians.” The budget, tabled by Finance Minister Seedy K.M. Keita, today at the National Assembly, prioritises human capital development, with Health, Education and Agriculture collectively receiving D18.6 billion, representing 35.3% of total spending.

Minister Keita said the economy is projected to grow by 5.5% in 2026, driven by improved agriculture output, stable inflation, stronger remittances, and continued infrastructure expansion. Inflation, which has been declining since mid-2024, is expected to ease further due to tight monetary policy and improved domestic production.

The budget deficit is projected to narrow to 1% of GDP, down from 1.3% in 2025, as part of the government’s fiscal consolidation efforts to reduce borrowing and maintain debt sustainability. Public and publicly guaranteed debt is forecast to decline to 68.8% of GDP in 2026.

Revenue performance continues to improve, with tax revenue projected at D27 billion, boosted by reforms such as the Integrated Tax Administration System (ITAS), ASYCUDA expansion, and the rollout of digital tax systems. Domestic revenue is expected to reach D32.2 billion, with grants projected at D18.1 billion.

The minister highlighted significant social commitments, including D1 billion electricity subsidy, D900 million agricultural input support, D300 million recapitalisation of NFSPMC, and D250 million for school feeding.