At its core lies a fundamental principle: what cannot be measured cannot be achieved. For YIRIWA, and our Green Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, this principle must become operational doctrine. Development must be tracked, verified, and continuously evaluated.
The EU-funded system—built on the proven DHIS2 platform—enables real-time monitoring of 237 indicators across key sectors. More importantly, it introduces a culture of data-driven decision-making, strengthening coordination among Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and aligning national priorities with development partner support.
Transparency as an Economic Strategy
Mr President, transparency is not just a governance ideal—it is an economic strategy.
First, it enhances investor confidence. In today’s competitive global environment, capital flows to jurisdictions where data is credible and performance is measurable. A transparent tracking system reduces uncertainty, strengthens policy credibility, and positions The Gambia as a more attractive destination for investment.
Second, it improves efficiency in public spending. Real-time data allows government to identify underperforming projects, address implementation bottlenecks, and redirect resources to high-impact areas. This ensures that scarce public funds deliver maximum value.
Third, it strengthens development cooperation. International partners increasingly require evidence-based reporting. By institutionalising transparency, The Gambia aligns itself with global best practices, enhancing its ability to mobilise concessional financing and technical assistance.
From Planning to Performance
Mr President, historically, development plans have focused on inputs—budgets, policies, and projects—without sufficient emphasis on outcomes. This system changes that paradigm.
It links programme-based budgeting to measurable results, enabling government to assess not just what is spent, but what is achieved. It transforms the National Development Plan into a living performance management tool, rather than a static policy document.
However, the success of this system will depend not on technology, but on institutional discipline. As rightly noted by the EU Ambassador, its value depends on the quality and timeliness of data entered.
This raises a critical question: will MDAs consistently provide accurate and timely information?
To ensure effectiveness, transparency must be enforced through:
Strong leadership from the highest levels of government
Clear performance contracts for senior officials
Incentives and accountability mechanisms linked to results
Without these, the system risks underutilisation.
Reinforcing the Social Contract
Mr President, transparency also strengthens the relationship between government and citizens. By making development progress visible, it fosters trust and accountability. When citizens can track projects, monitor delivery, and assess outcomes, they become active participants in national development. This reinforces the social contract and enhances public confidence in government institutions.
A Strategic Imperative for YIRIWA
As YIRIWA advances, this digital platform must be fully integrated into national governance systems. It should serve as the central hub for monitoring, evaluation, and policy adjustment.
Key priorities should include:
Institutionalising the platform within the Ministry of Finance
Ensuring regular public reporting of development indicators
Linking the system to budget execution and procurement processes
Using it to inform Cabinet and Presidential performance reviews
Conclusion
Mr President, this initiative presents a strategic opportunity to embed transparency at the heart of national development. It offers a pathway to more efficient governance, stronger economic performance, and enhanced public trust.
Transparency is not an end in itself—it is a means to achieve results. If effectively implemented, this system will ensure that YIRIWA is not only well-designed, but successfully delivered.
Good day!
The Point Editorial