By: Binta Jaiteh
Gambian President Adama Barrow Monday called for stronger partnership between Africa and international financial institutions, saying governments cannot address the continent’s development challenges without closer collaboration with partners.
He calls for stronger collaboration in favor of investment, innovation and inclusion to accelerate Africa’s economic transformation.
Opening the 2026 African Caucus Meeting in Banjul, Barrow described the gathering as a significant demonstration of the partnership between African countries and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank Group.
He says Africa continues to face the effects of geopolitical tensions, climate change, infrastructure deficits and financing gaps despite its abundant natural resources, youthful population and growing innovation potential.
“The theme of this year’s Caucus Meeting, ‘Transforming Africa’s Economies through Investment, Innovation, and Inclusion,’ speaks directly to Africa’s transformation agenda,” Barrow said.
He said the three-day meeting provides an opportunity for governments, the private sector, academics and development experts to discuss common priorities and identify practical solutions for inclusive economic growth.
The president reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to working with the IMF, the World Bank Group and other development partners to address unemployment, poverty and climate change while promoting sustainable development.
Barrow urged development partners to increase support for regional infrastructure, particularly in transport, energy and digital connectivity, noting that Africa continues to face the world’s largest infrastructure deficit.
He also called for greater support to improve trade facilitation under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), including better access to trade finance, correspondent banking services, payment systems and financial guarantees.
The president appealed to the IMF and the World Bank Group to assist African countries in strengthening domestic revenue mobilisation through broader tax bases, improved public financial management, digitalisation of tax systems and enhanced tax administration.
He further called for stronger international cooperation to combat illicit financial flows from Africa.
Highlighting his government’s development agenda, Barrow said The Gambia has invested heavily in road and energy infrastructure over the past nine years, alongside increased spending on health, education and skills development to prepare young people for future employment opportunities.
He expressed appreciation to the organizers of the meeting, led by the Ministry of Finance, as well as the IMF, the World Bank Group and other development partners for their continued support to African countries.
Barrow also encouraged delegates attending the meeting to explore The Gambia’s cultural and historical attractions during their stay in the country.