By Kebba AF Touray
The Gambia’s Minister of Digital Economy, Lamin Jabbi, has called for a strategic reassessment of the country’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector, stressing its potential to drive significant national revenue despite current challenges in budget allocation.
Minister Jabbi made these remarks during the National Assembly’s adjournment debate that concluded the first ordinary session of Parliament for the year.
On Rethinking the ICT Strategy
The Minister informed lawmakers that a comprehensive review of the country’s ICT and digital economy strategy is underway. He emphasized the need for a shift in how the National Assembly and other stakeholders view the ICT sector.
“We must consider ICT not merely as a service, but as a super infrastructure. If the sector is contributing close to 20 percent of our national economy, then it should be treated with the significance it deserves,” he stated.
Citing the country’s projected tax revenue of D20 billion for 2024, he noted that ICT alone accounts for over D4 billion—an average of D333 million in monthly contributions.
“This level of impact demonstrates the sector’s value, yet the budget allocated to it does not match its contribution,” he lamented.
According to Minister Jabbi, the current budget allocation of D90 million—which also covers agencies like GICTA and DGL—is inadequate. “With proper investment and support, the ICT sector could deliver far greater returns. Rethinking the budget and the sector’s strategic position must begin with the National Assembly,” he added.
On the Challenge of Un-Electrified Communities
Meanwhile, Minister of Energy Nani Juwara responded to concerns raised by lawmakers over the lack of electricity in some communities. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to achieving universal access to electricity nationwide.
“That is our government’s firm commitment. We are working relentlessly with our partners to realize this vision, and we are optimistic that The Gambia could be the first West African country to achieve universal access to electricity before the SDG 7 target year of 2030,” he said.
He acknowledged that while significant progress has been made, the work is far from over. “We are committed to ensuring no one is left behind, but the main challenge remains funding,” he added.
Minister Juwara also revealed that The Gambia has been selected to join Mission 300, a joint initiative by the World Bank and the African Development Bank. The program is designed to support countries in providing electricity access to all remaining unelectrified communities.
