Honourable Seedy K.M. Keita, the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs, said The Gambia has unveiled a D55.3 billion national budget for 2026, aimed at improving the well-being and quality of life of Gambians.
The Finance Minister made these remarks during the budget presentation before the National Assembly on Friday, December 5, 2025.
He said the budget comes as the country’s public debt reached D129.5 billion, reflecting both domestic borrowing and currency depreciation pressures.
The Finance and Economic Minister explained that the 2026 budget focuses on sustaining macroeconomic stability, deepening structural reforms, and strengthening public financial management.
The Minister said Human capital sectors, Health, Education, and Agriculture have been prioritised, receiving a combined allocation of D18.6 billion, representing over 35 percent of the total budget, the highest in the country’s history.
On the macroeconomic front, the Minister mentioned that the government projects real GDP growth of 5.9 percent in 2025, up from 5.6 percent in 2024, outperforming the Sub-Saharan African average. Inflation has been steadily declining, falling from 10 percent in September 2024 to 7 percent by October 2025. Exchange rate stability has also improved, supported by increased remittance inflows and tourism revenue.
“Revenue mobilisation reforms are paying off, with domestic tax revenue exceeding targets. The tax-to-GDP ratio is projected to rise from 12 percent in 2025 to 13.2 percent in 2026. However, it remains below regional and international averages. Fiscal deficit for 2026 is targeted to narrow to 1 percent of GDP, signaling the government’s commitment to debt sustainability and reduced borrowing pressures,” he said.
He indicated that social sectors also received attention, with plans to expand healthcare coverage, strengthen education, support vulnerable populations, and enhance youth and women empowerment initiatives.
“The Social Protection Agency reported 100 percent coverage of the national social registry, making The Gambia the only country in Sub-Saharan Africa with complete data for targeted social support programs,” he disclosed.
“This budget reflects our determination to invest in the future of Gambians, even amid fiscal constraints,” the Finance Minister said, underscoring the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, improved public services, and stronger social safety nets.
