A recent survey conducted by Gambia Participates has identified the Gambia Police Force as the most corrupt public institution in the country.
The survey indicated that 63% of respondents viewed the police as the institution most impacted by corruption, highlighting persistent issues like bribery, extortion, and abuse of power. “This highlights deep-rooted practices such as bribery, extortion, and abuse of power within law enforcement.”
Additional sectors identified for elevated corruption levels encompass the health sector (39%) and the Gambia Immigration Department (34%). Corruption in the health system was reported to appear in the form of informal payments, preferential treatment, and the diversion of resources. In immigration, irregularities were associated with permits, border controls, and official documentation.
There were notable reports of corruption within key service providers, such as the National Water and Electricity Company (20%), Gambia Revenue Authority (19%), education sector (19%), and Local Government Authorities (18%). The survey indicated that corruption in these regions directly jeopardizes livelihoods, diminishes access to essential needs, and lowers overall economic productivity.
As these services are vital, corruption within these sectors directly jeopardizes livelihoods, access to fundamental needs, and overall economic productivity, the report indicated.
Reported levels of corruption, though lesser, remain notable in various sectors: agriculture (16%), the Gambia Ferry Service (16%), Gambia Ports Authority (15%), the petroleum sector (10%), and the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority (10%). The report highlighted that while corruption in these institutions is less widespread, it continues to undermine critical sectors of the national economy.
In total, 90% of those surveyed identified corruption in public institutions as a significant issue, with 62% categorizing it as “very serious” and an additional 28% deeming it “serious.”
The prevalent types of corruption observed included bribery, gift-giving, and nepotism. Approximately 41% of those surveyed indicated that they had been solicited for a bribe or gift, while 40% reported having observed preferential treatment influenced by personal or familial ties.
The survey indicates that corruption in The Gambia is both systemic and widespread, impacting public services, economic performance, and the daily lives of citizens.
