By Fatou Krubally &Haddy Touray
Gambian President Adama Barrow has praised taxpayers for their contribution to national development, saying the country’s progress largely depends on the commitment and compliance of its citizens in meeting tax obligations.
Speaking Saturday at the 8th edition of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) Annual Taxpayers’ Award Ceremony, Barrow said the event offered an opportunity to recognise the important role taxpayers play in building a self-reliant nation.
“The progress of The Gambia rests largely on the shoulders of its taxpayers,” the president said.
Barrow reiterated that since assuming office in 2017, his administration had adopted a deliberate policy aimed at ensuring that The Gambia finances its own development rather than relying heavily on foreign aid, loans and grants.
According to him, domestic resource mobilisation remains central to the government’s national development agenda, with the Gambia Revenue Authority playing a key role in raising resources needed to fund development projects.
The president commended the GRA for consistently meeting and exceeding revenue targets through reforms and innovation.
He disclosed that the Authority collected more than D25.3 billion in 2025, surpassing its target by 10%, while over D7.7 billion was mobilised in the first quarter of 2026.
Barrow noted that when he took office in 2017, annual national tax revenue stood at D7.79 billion, but by the end of 2025 it had increased to over D25.3 billion, representing a growth of about 218%.
He attributed the increase not to higher tax rates but to reforms centred on the modernisation and digitalisation of tax administration.
“Through automation, improved compliance systems, enhanced enforcement, and innovative digital solutions, the GRA has transformed revenue collection in The Gambia,” he said.
The Gambian leader praised the Commissioner General, Board, management and staff of the GRA for implementing the government’s digitalisation agenda and strengthening domestic resource mobilisation efforts.
Barrow also acknowledged the economic challenges facing the country, particularly the impact of the ongoing Middle East conflict on global energy prices, which he said had contributed to rising living and business costs.
He said the government had introduced monthly fuel subsidies to stabilise prices and cushion the impact of global shocks on citizens and businesses.
The president added that tax revenues had enabled the government to undertake major infrastructure projects across the country, including roads, schools, hospitals and universities.
“All of these developments are largely funded by the taxes people pay,” he said.
Barrow urged taxpayers to remain committed to voluntary compliance, describing tax payment as both a civic responsibility and a patriotic duty.
“To all taxpayers, I say: We recognise your efforts; we appreciate your sacrifices; and we thank you sincerely for your continued compliance,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the GRA and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive, stressing that a vibrant private sector remains essential for economic growth, job creation and innovation.
The president also congratulated award recipients honoured during the ceremony, describing them as role models whose example should inspire others across the country.