Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – Gambian President Adama Barrow delivered a State of the Nation Address today, highlighting the country’s economic progress and strides made in infrastructure development.

President Barrow pointed to The Gambia’s economic growth exceeding Sub-Saharan Africa’s projected rate in 2023, reaching 5.3%. He attributed this success to the government’s commitment to economic growth and prosperity, achieved through reduced inflation, lower debt vulnerability, and sound fiscal policies.

The President emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, outlining a series of public financial management reforms undertaken during his administration. These reforms included updating the Public Finance Act, formulating a new Public Procurement Bill, implementing an Integrated Financial Management Information System across local governments, establishing a State-Owned Enterprise Commission, and enacting a new Anti-Corruption Act in 2023.

President Barrow welcomed the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) approval of a new $100 million Extended Credit Facility Arrangement with The Gambia. This financial support bolsters the country’s ongoing economic recovery and structural reforms. Additionally, The Gambia was chosen by the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) to develop a $300 million development compact, a significant leap from the previous $25 million Threshold Programme.

Looking ahead, President Barrow expressed optimism for continued economic growth, anchored by the recently launched $1 billion National Development Plan (“YIRIWAA”) for 2023-2027.

The President also addressed challenges in the fisheries sector, acknowledging a 15.8% decrease in revenue collection from 2022 to 2023. He pledged government action to rectify this decline. This includes reviewing fishing license regulations to better protect artisanal fishers and ensure sustainable resource management.

Several initiatives were announced to boost the fisheries sector and support fishing communities. These include the construction of 20 fishing boats with equipment, the creation of fish ponds, and a $25 million Climate Resilient Fishery Initiative funded by the Green Climate Fund. Efforts to minimize post-harvest losses were highlighted as well, with the construction of fish landing platforms and improved access roads to markets.

President Barrow pointed to significant progress in access to safe drinking water. With a national average of 90% coverage in 2023, up from 86% in 2010, The Gambia has made substantial strides. However, the President acknowledged a disparity between urban and rural areas, noting that the rural water access rate remains at 83%. He pledged continued investment to bridge this gap and ensure all Gambians have access to clean water.

The President concluded by outlining a project, in collaboration with the African Development Bank Group and Japan, to install 130 large solar-powered piped water systems. This initiative aims to benefit over 160 communities and an estimated 280,000 people. With 20 boreholes already inaugurated and 55 ongoing installations, President Barrow assured the nation of his government’s commitment to completing the project by 2025.

Overall, President Barrow’s address painted a picture of a nation on the rise. The Gambian economy is experiencing positive growth, and the government is actively working to improve infrastructure and essential services for all citizens.