By Lamin B. Darboe
Senior Communication Officer, MoPS
The Ministry of Public Service (MoPS) has commenced a three-day staff retreat aimed at reviewing progress, strengthening collaboration and advancing ongoing reforms within the Gambian civil service.
The retreat, being held from 13 to 15 July 2026 at Jere Camp in the Upper Niumi District of the North Bank Region, brings together heads of units within the ministry to assess their Quarter One and Two work plans and budget utilization up to June 2026.
According to ministry officials, the gathering provides a platform for participants to exchange experiences, share best practices and enhance coordination in support of the government’s public service reform agenda.
During the retreat, heads of units are expected to review the implementation of their respective programs, identify emerging challenges and opportunities, and discuss practical measures to improve the effectiveness, visibility and impact of their interventions.
The meeting also provides an opportunity to examine the role of unit heads in the ministry’s reform framework in line with the Ministry of Public Service Strategic Plan 2024–2028.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Public Service Baboucarr Bouye described the retreat as an important opportunity for reflection, accountability and renewed commitment towards achieving the ministry’s 2026 targets.
He said the meeting would enable the ministry to take stock of achievements, identify gaps and develop strategies to improve implementation of planned activities.
“The mandate of the Ministry of Public Service is central to the effective functioning of government institutions. The efficiency of our work directly impacts national development,” Minister Bouye said.
He highlighted progress made under the Public Administration Modernization Program (PAMP), including the Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS), approved by Cabinet, as well as initiatives such as the Performance Management Policy, Policy Handbook, improved service delivery mechanisms, staff verification exercises and efforts to strengthen institutional capacity.
The minister attributed these achievements to collective efforts, commitment and resilience among staff, while acknowledging challenges including limited resources, capacity constraints and coordination gaps.
He urged ministry officials to focus on practical solutions to accelerate implementation, identifying key priorities such as strengthening monitoring and tracking of service delivery mechanisms, improving collaboration among ministries and agencies, building workforce skills and aligning activities with national strategic priorities.
Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Public Service, Pateh Jah, welcomed participants and expressed optimism that the retreat would produce positive and practical outcomes.
He notes that the ministry plays a critical role in the administration of the entire civil service and must therefore serve as a model institution within the public sector.
“The Ministry of Public Service is an important sector in the general administration of the civil service, and this requires us to lead by example,” PS Jah said.