Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has achieved an unprecedented milestone, collecting GMD 2.6 billion in March 2025—the highest monthly revenue in the country’s history.

This record-breaking figure highlights the effectiveness of GRA’s enhanced enforcement mechanisms, improved taxpayer compliance, and the successful rollout of digital revenue collection systems. It also reflects the impact of ongoing economic activities and policy measures designed to boost domestic revenue mobilization.

President Adama Barrow had earlier commended the GRA’s role in strengthening the nation’s economy. “The GRA plays a pivotal role in the country’s economy by driving revenue mobilization, fostering fiscal sustainability, and supporting national development. Its strategic focus on digital transformation has enhanced tax collection efficiency, transparency, and service delivery,” he stated in January.

The surge in revenue is expected to provide a significant boost to the government’s budget, supporting infrastructure development, public sector salaries, and essential social services. Economic analysts suggest that this growth could help reduce The Gambia’s dependence on external loans and grants, reinforcing fiscal independence.

Strategic Reforms Drive Revenue Growth

To improve tax collection, the GRA has implemented various initiatives, including electronic filing systems, enhanced customs controls, and intensified tax education campaigns. These measures have led to greater efficiency in tax administration and increased compliance among taxpayers.

Earlier this year, the GRA revealed that it has been tasked with collecting GMD 23 billion by the end of 2025—an average of nearly GMD 2 billion per month. This follows a strong performance in 2024, where the authority collected over GMD 20.83 billion, surpassing its initial target of GMD 19.2 billion by more than GMD 1 billion.

Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe reported a nominal revenue growth of 32%, with the Domestic Taxes Department and the Customs and Excise Department recording growth rates of 27% and 36%, respectively.

“In absolute terms, the 2024 revenue performance shows a revenue growth of GMD 5 billion from the previous year, with domestic taxes increasing by GMD 1.9 billion and customs and excise recording GMD 3 billion,” Darboe stated.

During a press conference earlier this year, Darboe emphasized that the revenue increase is not due to higher tax rates, which have remained unchanged for nearly a decade. “Rather, it is the outcome of various reform programs and initiatives aimed at widening the tax net and the efficiency gains achieved through the digitalization of our systems and business processes,” he explained.

With these reforms in place, the GRA remains on track to meet its ambitious 2025 revenue targets, further solidifying its role in driving The Gambia’s fiscal sustainability and economic growth.