“It includes robust capacity-building component to empower our local teams and ensure long-term sustainability,” Finance minister Seedy Keita stated at the signing ceremony at MOFEA Conference Room in Banjul.
Hon. Seedy Keita described the event as a landmark occasion. “This moment marks a pivotal step in our journey toward building a smarter, more transparent, and efficient tax administration in The Gambia.”
According to the Finance minister, that was just more than a contract. “It is a declaration of intent—a bold commitment to modernize public financial management and embrace digital transformation. The ITAS initiative aligns seamlessly with His Excellency President Adama Barrow’s Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, which prioritizes digital innovation, institutional efficiency, and fiscal sustainability.”
He said the signing lays the groundwork for a unified, digital tax platform that will elevate the Gambia Revenue Authority to international standards. “ITAS will revolutionize how taxes are registered, filed, paid, audited, and enforced—streamlining processes, reducing human error, and curbing malpractice.”
He further stated the system will be fully integrated with key national platforms, including the Central Bank, Accountant General’s Department, Companies Registry, National ID System, and Customs ASYCUDA World. “This interconnectivity will enable real-time data sharing, enhance compliance, and provide a comprehensive view of taxpayer activity across institutions.”
“For businesses and individuals, ITAS promises faster service, fewer queues, and greater convenience. For government, it means improved revenue forecasting, stronger compliance, and enhanced capacity to fund critical development priorities—from education and healthcare to infrastructure and social protection.”
According to the finance minister, the ITAS is a cornerstone of the GRA’s broader reform agenda. “Across customs, treasury, procurement, and budgeting, we are digitizing systems to build a Gambia where data drives decisions, technology fosters accountability, and every Dalasi collected serves the public good.”
“We recognize that technology alone is not enough. Success depends on people—on training, knowledge, and ownership. That’s why ITAS includes an ambitious programmer to build the capacity of GRA staff and ensure the system is not only implemented but fully embraced.”
“In today’s digital age, data security and sovereignty are paramount. ITAS is designed with these principles at its core, safeguarding our information and future-proofing our systems.”
“To ensure effective delivery, the Ministry of Finance and GRA will establish a Steering Committee for policy oversight and a Technical Committee for day-to-day monitoring. We are committed to delivering this project on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.”
“Today’s signing marks the beginning of a new era—one where technology drives efficiency, transparency builds trust, and domestic resources fuel national progress. Under the leadership of His Excellency President Adama Barrow, we are building a Gambia that is digitally empowered, fiscally responsible, and firmly in control of its development destiny,” he affirmed.
In his statement, GRA’s Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe said the signing of the contract for the procurement, supply and delivery of the new integrated Tax Administration System marks a pivotal moment for the Gambia Revenue Authority and for the nation’s economy for the future.
The introduction of this system will significantly reduce the time and efforts required to be tax compliant.
“It will enhance transparency, minimize human error, and provide a clear, digital footprint for all transactions. This is the future of tax administration –a future that is digital, efficient and built on the principles of service, transparency and integrity.”
