The National Assembly has formally approved the Appropriation Bill, 2026, during its plenary sitting on Tuesday, 9th December 2025. The legislation, entitled “An Act to provide for the services of the Government of The Gambia for the period 1st January 2026 to 31st December 2026”, sets out the national budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
The 2026 Budget reflects an increase in total government expenditure from GMD 37.85 billion in 2025 to GMD 43.49 billion. Significant allocations include the Independent Electoral Commission (up 115%), the Ministry of Agriculture (up 87%), the Ministry of Higher Education (up 42%), and Pensions and Gratuities (up 22%).
Total revenue, including tax and non-tax sources, is projected to rise from GMD 29 billion to GMD 32 billion, driven largely by improved collections across the Ministries of Interior, Health, Fisheries, and Water Resources.
The passage of the Bill concludes a rigorous six-week legislative process that included sectoral scrutiny, ministerial bilaterals, and extensive debate on the floor of the Assembly. The Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure for the 2026 Fiscal Year were first presented to the Assembly by the Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs on Friday, 31st October 2025.
Following detailed deliberations, the Appropriation Bill, 2026, was formally presented by the Minister on Friday, 5th December 2025, in accordance with Section 152(3) of the 1997 Constitution and Order 87(2) of the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.
The approval of the 2026 Budget marks a significant step in the Government’s commitment to drive sustainable economic growth, strengthen public services, and enhance social welfare across The Gambia.
By Mahzouba Maya Faal
Communication Officer, MoFEA