The Gambia: Selected Issues

This Selected Issues paper highlights past, current, and future drivers of The Gambia’s growth and suggests reforms to enhance productivity. The Gambia’s medium- to long-term growth prospects depend on accelerating structural transformation as the contributions of capital and labor gradually decline, making productivity growth the primary driver of sustainable economic expansion. Maintaining macroeconomic stability through gradual fiscal consolidation, stronger domestic revenue mobilization, improved expenditure efficiency, prudent debt management, and price stability remains essential. Raising agricultural productivity through expanded irrigation, better access to inputs, enhanced extension services, and climate-resilient practices can strengthen food security, increase rural incomes, and reduce import dependence. Structural reforms that improve the business environment, simplify regulations, strengthen contract enforcement, and expand access to finance will foster private sector-led investment, employment, and productivity. Promoting diversification into higher value-added agriculture, fisheries, and light manufacturing will enhance resilience to external shocks and boost export competitiveness. Complementary investments in education, skills development, healthcare, energy, transport, and digital infrastructure are crucial to supporting long-term productivity growth and inclusive economic development.