Economic Deep Dive: New SSC Report Unearths the Anatomy of Governance Collapse

The Special Select Committee's report on the disposal of Jammeh's assets makes for sobering reading. It provides a gripping account of administrative incompetence, institutional dysfunction, and governance failures.

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Economic Deep Dive: Long-Term Solutions For Groundnuts

The government's annual purchase of groundnuts from farmers is not a long-term viable strategy. It is fiscally draining, has been short-changing farmers, and is a commercial activity for which government entities are ill-suited. It is high time the country implements a strategy that meets the modern needs of the Gambian economy and of farmers in particular.

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Economic Deep Dive: Onion Import Restriction: Political Theatre Over Real Support

Recently, the government announced a temporary restriction on the importation of potatoes and onions, ostensibly to protect local producers. On the surface, this seems like a good decision. However, on closer inspection, it is not the action of a government that is serious about supporting local industry or farmers, particularly smallholders.

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Economic Deep Dive: Deception on Universal Electricity Access

In a recent press statement, Dr Ismaila Ceesay claimed that The Gambia is on course to achieve universal electricity access before the end of 2026. This is not a new claim by the government. Dr Ceesay previously claimed that The Gambia would achieve universal access by 2025, which was the official position of the government. Just as that claim turned out to be false, this new claim is equally false for several reasons.

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Economic Deep Dive: The Diminishing Tourism Sector

Dr Ousman Gajigo observes that Tourists staying in Gambian hotels are increasingly crossing into Senegal for nature and cultural experiences that should be found at home, exposing a costly leakage in the country’s tourism economy.

From the neglect of Abuko Nature Reserve and Sindola Safari Park to poor integration with agriculture and local communities, government inaction has left the sector shallow and enclave-driven, argues Dr Gajigo.

As arrivals become the sole metric of success, the deeper value of tourism—jobs, linkages, and shared prosperity—continues to diminish. More in this opinion piece.

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The Emperor Without Clothes: the rise of GALA and Lessons for Gambian Leadership

As public frustration deepens over corruption, rising living costs, and democratic backsliding in The Gambia, a bold new youth-led movement—Gambians Against Looted Assets (GALA)—has emerged as a powerful force demanding accountability. Drawing parallels to the timeless tale of 'The Emperor’s New Clothes', this civic awakening challenges a government seemingly in denial and signals a generational shift unwilling to stay silent while the nation unravels. More in this opinion piece.

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60 years in Dependence: Reflections on the Diamond Jubilee of the Republic

Sixty years ago, The Gambia shook off its colonial shackles and embraced political independence. Despite the uncertainty and scepticism over its viability, the vision and the promise was one of self-determination, dignity, and a future by Gambians for Gambians. We have persisted, and here we are 60 years on. More in this masterfully crafted publication by lawyer Imran Darboe.

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