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Gambia, EU sign D2.93B to support key reforms, social services delivery

Nov 23, 2023, 11:46 AM | Article By: Press release

The Republic of the Gambia and the EU have signed a new Financing Agreement for the implementation of the 4th State and Resilience Building Contract for The Gambia. The total funding of the European Union to the Financing Agreement is 40 Euro  million, i.e. over 2,93 billion dalasi, comprised of 36 Euro million - to be disbursed during the fiscal years 2023 and 2025 - and 4 Euro million for complementary support.

The overall objective of the Financing Agreement signed by Hon. Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy Keita and EU ambassador Corrado Pampaloni is to support the Government of the Gambia in its efforts to consolidate a peaceful, inclusive and democratic society, while also promoting gender equality.

During the signatory ceremony, The European Union Ambassador to The Gambia, Corrado Pampaloni, stated that: “This agreement serves as a tangible manifestation of our shared commitment to strengthening the foundations of governance, stability, and resilience in The Gambia.” He added: “The objectives outlined in this agreement are not just financial commitments. They embody a common vision for a Gambia that is not only economically stable but also socially inclusive and politically resilient. We are placing particular emphasis on bolstering key sectors that are instrumental for sustainable development.”

The agreement focuses on reforms initiated by the Government of The Gambia since 2017 including:

  • The Implementation of the White Paper commitments related to the recommendations from the TRRC;
  • The formulation and implementation of the National Development Plans for 2023-27; 
  • The expansion of Social Protection support programmes for the vulnerable population;
  • Enhancing relevance and accountability of Public Financial Management for the delivery of essential services to the citizens of the Gambia;
  • Migration management with a specific focus on readmission and reintegration, in recognition of the multifaceted challenges faced by both Europe and The Gambia on irregular migration.