By: Kemo Kanyi
The Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG) Wednesday launched its working papers and seminar series as part of efforts to strengthen evidence-based policymaking and enhance research to support the country’s socio-economic development.
The initiative, launched at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, was designed to provide a platform for research, policy dialogue and intellectual exchange aimed at improving economic analysis and informing public policy.
Speaking on behalf of Central Bank Governor Buah Saidy, First Deputy Governor Abdoulie Sireh Jallow said the initiative would reinforce the bank’s role as a knowledge institution and contribute to informed policymaking.
He said the working papers and seminar series would establish a durable platform for rigorous research and policy discussions to enrich national economic discourse and support sound decision-making.
Dr. Jallow noted that the global economy continued to face challenges arising from the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, geopolitical tensions, climate-related shocks, commodity price volatility, rapid technological change and evolving financial markets.
He says these developments pose significant risks for small, open economies such as The Gambia, making it essential for policymakers to rely on credible data, applied research and sound policy frameworks.
“In this environment, central banks must rely on strong empirical evidence and sound policy frameworks to fulfil their mandates effectively,” Dr. Jallow said. “At the Central Bank of The Gambia, we believe that credible policy begins with a clear policy framework, institutional agility and the effective use of applied research to guide decision-making.”
He says the initiative forms part of broader reforms to modernize the bank’s monetary policy framework, analytical capacity and economic forecasting.
Also speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor of the University of The Gambia, Professor Herbert Robinson Johnson, called for closer collaboration between the university and the Central Bank to create more opportunities for graduates.
Director of Policy and Research at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, Lamin Bojang, and Deputy Director of the Central Bank’s Economic Research Department, Momodou O. Jallow, also underscored the importance of the initiative in strengthening economic research and policymaking in The Gambia.