By Fatou Sillah
The National Assembly on Monday approved the Communications Bill 2025 at its second reading, paving the way for further scrutiny of legislation aimed at strengthening data protection, cybersecurity, and the regulation of electronic communications in The Gambia.
The bill was tabled by the Minister for Communications and Digital Economy and subsequently debated by members on its merits and underlying principles before its committal to either a relevant committee or the Committee of the Whole House for detailed consideration.
According to the minister, the proposed legislation seeks to establish a comprehensive framework for rapid, efficient, and modern electronic communications, information media, broadcasting, and electronic commerce services in the country.
“The objectives and reasons for this particular bill are to establish a framework for rapid, efficient, and comprehensive electronic communications, information media, broadcasting, and electronic commerce services in The Gambia for promoting competition and investment, ensuring consumer protection and privacy, and facilitating the optimal use of national communication resources like radio frequencies,” he told lawmakers.
The minister further stated that the bill is designed to promote competition and attract investment in the communications sector while safeguarding consumer rights and privacy. It also seeks to ensure the effective allocation and use of scarce national communication resources, including radio frequencies.
A key component of the proposed law is the legal recognition of electronic transactions. The minister explained that the bill would provide legal backing for electronic signatures, contracts, and other forms of digital communication, thereby enabling and promoting electronic commerce.
“It is to provide legal recognition for electronic signatures, contracts, and other electronic communications to enable electronic commerce,” he said.
On cybersecurity and personal data protection, the minister noted that the bill is expected to establish a legal framework to ensure the security of ICT infrastructure and protect personal data and privacy.
“This bill is expected to establish a legal framework for electronic transactions, information media, and broadcasting services, promoting national and regional competitiveness, ensuring the security of ICT infrastructure, and protecting personal data and privacy,” he stated.
He added that the proposed legislation also seeks to address computer-related offences and cybercrime, with the aim of protecting individuals and organizations while safeguarding national defence and public safety through secure and reliable communications systems.
The bill now proceeds to the next legislative stage, where lawmakers are expected to conduct a clause-by-clause review before a final vote.
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