The United Nations Resident Coordinator’s Office (UNRCO), in partnership with the World Bank, the Government of The Gambia, and the Centre for Research and Policy Development (CRPD), organised a Research Policy Seminar on the theme ‘Peace and Prosperity in The Gambia: Problems and Prospects.’ This solution-oriented seminar convened policymakers, practitioners, academics, and civil society representatives, was designed to critically examine contemporary challenges and opportunities related to security, governance, and development in The Gambia.

Since transitioning to a multiparty republic following the 2016 Presidential Elections, The Gambia has moved beyond the autocratic rule that lasted from 1994 to 2017. As one of smallest countries on continental Africa, covering approximately 10,700 square kilometers with a population of 2.5 million, The Gambia faces unique and often overlooked development challenges.[1] Despite the lack of significant mineral resources, agriculture remains a cornerstone of its economy. Nearly 60% of the land is devoted to agriculture, which supports about 75% of the population through crop cultivation and livestock rearing.[2]

Economic activities in The Gambia are largely centred around small-scale manufacturing, focusing on processing peanuts, fish, and animal hides. While the country has experienced positive gross domestic product (GDP) growth, rising food prices have exacerbated poverty, which reached 18.5% in 2023. The Gambia’s economic advancement relies heavily on foreign aid and the prudent economic management of international partners. However, the fiscal deficit remains a persistent issue, projected at 4.2% of GDP for 2023. It is crucial for the Government of The Gambia, the civil society, and development partners to address these economic challenges to achieve peace and prosperity in line with the United Nations Sustainable Goals as aligned with the African Union Vision 2063 and the country’s development plan.

To achieve sustainable growth, The Gambia must diversify its revenue streams and manage high overall and external debt risks effectively. This is not just a goal but a necessity for this coastal country’s future. Strengthening governance, particularly in combating corruption within public procurement and public finance management, is crucial. Challenges are compounded by limited digitalisation and discretionary powers. The country also faces demographic pressures, with a population density of 176 people per square kilometre. Urban and peri-urban areas, which house 57% of the population, experience heightened tensions and conflicts over land rights between communities and the state. Rapid peri-urbanisation has further led to deforestation and loss of agricultural land, exacerbating climate change impacts.

Read more: https://ndc.mw/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Peace-and-Prosperity-in-Gambia-Report.pdf