By: Fatou Krubally
The National Assembly on Thursday gave a second reading to the Labour (Amendment) Bill, 2026, paving the way for a new legal framework that would allow Gambians to seek employment in countries without bilateral labour agreements with The Gambia.
The bill, presented by the Minister of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, Hon. Mod K. Ceesay, was subsequently referred to the Assembly Business Committee for consideration and possible further scrutiny by a committee or the committee of the whole House.
If passed, the amendment will introduce a new Section 24A into the Labour Act, 2023, granting the Minister authority to issue licences permitting the deployment of Gambian workers to non-agreement countries through licensed employment agencies.
According to the proposed provision, such licences would only be granted where sufficient safeguards exist to protect workers’ rights, welfare, and security. The Minister must also be satisfied that employment conditions in destination countries meet minimum labour standards, and that recruiting agencies have the capacity to monitor compliance.
The bill’s explanatory memorandum states that while current law prioritises bilateral labour agreements to ensure safe migration, such agreements often take time to negotiate, leaving gaps in access to overseas employment opportunities.
It further notes that the absence of a clear regulatory framework for recruitment to non-bilateral destinations has exposed some migrant workers to risks including exploitation, contract substitution, high recruitment fees, and poor working conditions.
Government argues that the proposed amendment will close this gap by regulating private recruitment agencies, improving oversight, and ensuring that Gambian workers abroad benefit from legal protection, standardised contracts, and access to consular support.
The reform also aims to align labour migration policy with national development frameworks, including employment and migration strategies, while strengthening remittance flows and skills transfer.
Lawmakers, agreed to move the bill forward for further legislative consideration, as government seeks to expand safe and regulated overseas employment opportunities for Gambians beyond existing bilateral arrangements.