By Seedy Jobe
President Adama Barrow has reaffirmed that The Gambia’s development largely depends on the contributions of its taxpayers, as he presided over the 2026 Taxpayers’ Award Ceremony hosted by the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) on Friday.
Speaking at the annual event, President Barrow emphasized his administration’s long-standing commitment to domestic resource mobilisation, describing it as central to building a self-reliant and sovereign nation. He noted that since taking office in 2017, his government has pursued a deliberate policy of reducing dependence on foreign aid by strengthening internal revenue generation.
“The progress of The Gambia rests largely on the shoulders of its taxpayers,” Barrow said, adding that sustainable national development can only be achieved through effective mobilisation of domestic resources.
The President commended the GRA for its consistent performance, revealing that the Authority collected over D25.3 billion in 2025—exceeding its target by 10 percent. He further disclosed that in the first quarter of 2026 alone, the GRA mobilised more than D7.7 billion, continuing a trend of strong revenue growth.
Barrow highlighted that national tax revenue has grown significantly under his administration, rising from D7.79 billion in 2017 to over D25.3 billion in 2025—an increase of approximately 218 percent. He attributed this growth not to higher tax rates, but to reforms such as the modernisation and digitalisation of tax administration systems, improved compliance mechanisms, and enhanced transparency.
He praised the leadership of the GRA, particularly the Commissioner General, for advancing the government’s digitalisation agenda and strengthening revenue collection systems, which he said have boosted public trust and institutional efficiency.
Despite these gains, the President acknowledged ongoing economic challenges, including the global impact of the Middle East conflict, which has contributed to rising energy costs and increased cost of living. He said the government has introduced measures such as monthly fuel subsidies to cushion citizens and businesses against these external shocks.
Barrow pointed to visible infrastructure developments across the country—including roads, schools, hospitals, and other public facilities—as evidence of the effective use of tax revenues. He stressed that these projects are largely funded through taxpayers’ contributions.
“This event celebrates a mutually beneficial partnership between government and citizens,” he said, urging continued voluntary tax compliance as a cornerstone for sustained development.
The President also reiterated his government’s commitment to supporting the GRA through policy and institutional backing, while fostering a conducive environment for private sector growth. He encouraged businesses to operate within the law, assuring them of continued efforts to improve the business climate.
The ceremony, attended by senior government officials, diplomats, and members of the business community, recognised compliant taxpayers for their contributions to national development. Barrow congratulated the award recipients, describing them as role models whose commitment reflects patriotism and civic responsibility.
He concluded by calling for collective efforts to build “a self-reliant, resilient, and prosperous Gambia.”
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