The Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs (MoFEA) has concluded a two-day high-level workshop aimed at strengthening the governance, performance and accountability of Government Agencies reporting to the Ministry. The workshop, held from 11 to 12 December 2025 at Ocean Bay Hotel, brought together senior officials, agency representatives and development partners under the European Union–funded Technical Assistance programme.
The initiative, led by the Directorate of Agencies and State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), sought to assess existing governance frameworks across public institutions and shape reforms that will enhance service delivery and financial management.
Delivering the opening remarks, the Director of Agencies and SOEs, Ms. Amie Khan, underscored the pivotal role Government Agencies play in national development. She highlighted the establishment of the Directorate of Agencies in 2024 as a major milestone in MoFEA’s reform efforts, noting that it has significantly strengthened oversight, coordination and performance monitoring.
“Government agencies play a central role in our nation’s development. Their performance shapes public trust, fiscal discipline and the quality of essential services,” she stated.
The Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Ansumana Sanneh, delivered the keynote address, emphasising the importance of open dialogue and shared responsibility in enhancing public sector performance. He encouraged participants to reflect on systemic challenges and contribute practical ideas towards building more responsive and well-governed institutions.
“This workshop is a space for collective thinking, practical dialogue and meaningful collaboration. Your contributions are central to the reforms we seek to strengthen,” he said.
Representatives from the European Union, including Mr. Tarik Kubach and Technical Assistance expert Mr. Philip Kelly, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting governance reforms in The Gambia. They commended MoFEA for its continued efforts to strengthen institutional capacity and improve public sector accountability.
Throughout the workshop, participants engaged in group work sessions focused on key thematic areas such as governance standards, financial management, human resource capacity, oversight mechanisms and accountability frameworks. These group discussions allowed agencies to share experiences, identify challenges and propose practical, context-specific reforms to strengthen institutional performance.
In addition, participants reviewed relevant policy, legal and regulatory instruments governing public agencies, with the aim of aligning institutional frameworks to national development priorities and international best practice.
The workshop forms part of broader efforts by MoFEA and its partners to build a professional, accountable and service-oriented public sector capable of delivering improved outcomes for the Gambian people.
By Mahzouba Maya Faal
Communication Officer, MoFEA