By Makutu Manneh
The government of the Gambia has taken pride in a new national labor market report that showed the creation of 163,000 new jobs, improved labor force participation, and economic recovery across the country.
In a press release issued on May 13, the government stated that the report’s findings come against the backdrop of President Adama Barrow’s pledge to create 150,000 jobs during his administration.
“The latest data, showing the creation of over 163,000 jobs, is seen as a significant milestone in relation to this national commitment, reflecting ongoing efforts to expand employment opportunities and strengthen inclusive economic growth across The Gambia,” the release stated.
The report, The Gambia Labour Market: Progress and Trends, GLFS 2022-23 (QI) to GLFS 2026 (Q1), was produced by the Gambia Bureau of Statistics in collaboration with the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment and supported by the International Labour Organization and the World Bank-funded HISWACA project.
The government noted that according to the findings, labor force participation rose from 43.6 percent in 2023 to 54.5 percent in 2026, while the employment-to-population ratio increased from 40.3 percent to 51.1 percent over the same period.
The statement noted that this means employment grew by more than 163,000 persons, “reflecting increased economic activity and greater absorption of labor in key sectors.” Furthermore, it said unemployment fell from 7.6 percent to 6.2 percent while overall labor underutilization declined from 31.6 percent to 23.6 percent.
“The report attributes these gains to continued post-pandemic recovery, ongoing investment in key sectors and structural changes in the economy,” the government release added.
The government concluded by expressing its commitment to advancing inclusive growth through industrialization, skills development, women’s economic empowerment, rural development, and strengthened social protection systems under the national development agenda.
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