The Gambia’s government-funded expenditure is projected to reach D41.05 billion in 2027, representing a 12.5 per cent increase on the 2026 budget, according to the government’s 2027–2029 Programme-Based Budget.
The budget document says the proposed spending level reflects the resources expected to be available to the government next year.
“In line with the envisaged resource envelope, total Government expenditure (GLF) for 2027 is projected at GMD 41.05 billion,” the document states. “Relative to 2026, the 2027 budget is projected to grow by 12.50 percent.”
Debt servicing, staff-related expenses, the purchase of goods and services, and subsidies and transfers are identified as the main areas driving the projected increase.
With expenditure continuing to rise, the government says it intends to strengthen spending controls and improve cash management to ensure that public funds are used within the limits of available resources. The measures are also aimed at preventing the diversion of money from priority sectors and avoiding the accumulation of unpaid bills.
The budget provides for closer alignment of public spending with national development priorities, with greater focus on the results of government spending.
According to the document, strengthening Programme-Based Budgeting is expected to change the focus of budget discussions from the amount of money allocated and spent to the outcomes delivered through those resources.
The government says this approach should improve efficiency and make public institutions more accountable for their use of state funds.
It also plans to tighten oversight of subvented agencies through the restructuring and rationalisation of institutions receiving government support. Quarterly staff headcounts and payroll reviews will be carried out to identify irregularities and improve control over salary payments.
“This is expected to control the pressure coming from subvented institutions,” the budget document states.
Under the proposed arrangements, payrolls approved by the boards of subvented institutions will need clearance from the Personnel Management Office. The Accountant General’s Department will also review the institutions’ account balances every quarter.
The government says it will further strengthen the monitoring and reporting of public funds and development projects to improve oversight and provide a clearer picture of how state resources are being used.
The proposed increase comes with a stated commitment to tighter financial controls, although the effectiveness of the measures will depend on how consistently they are implemented across government institutions.
