Abuja, Nigeria – The Gambia has presented a comprehensive country report to the ECOWAS Parliament, currently holding its First Ordinary Session in Abuja. The delegation, led by Billay Tunkara, underscored significant strides in democratic consolidation and human rights since the 2017 transition, while also drawing attention to pressing environmental challenges and their impact on the nation’s development.
The report detailed a marked expansion in political participation, with the number of registered political parties more than doubling to approximately 19 since 2016, reflecting a more pluralistic political landscape. Gambian citizens aged 18 and above are constitutionally guaranteed the right to participate in the political process, including women and youth, promoting inclusive democracy.
Efforts to enhance good governance and the rule of law were highlighted, including the establishment of the Access to Information Commission and the ongoing work towards an Anti-Corruption Commission. Despite the setback of a rejected draft constitution in 2020, the government remains committed to its reintroduction, signalling a renewed push for comprehensive constitutional and institutional reforms.
On the security front, The Gambia was described as “largely stable,” though the report did acknowledge early warning indicators of potential political unrest, particularly around election periods and high-profile judicial proceedings involving figures from the previous administration. Social media’s dual role in democratic engagement and the spread of misinformation was also noted, alongside economic challenges like food and economic inflation contributing to public discontent.
Electoral processes have seen significant improvements, with the 2021 presidential, 2022 National Assembly, and 2023 Council elections widely regarded as free, fair, and transparent by local and international observers. Current reform efforts are focused on digitising voter registration and introducing an Elections Bill to address issues such as campaign financing and political party regulations.
The report proudly stated notable progress in reducing arbitrary arrest and detention since the fall of former President Yahya Jammeh, attributing this to strengthened institutional mechanisms like the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) and reinforced judicial oversight. Access to justice has also seen significant strides through comprehensive judicial reforms, including the “Gambianization” of the judiciary, reducing reliance on foreign judges. However, challenges such as limited legal aid services and infrastructural constraints within the court system persist.
Press freedom has “improved significantly” since 2017, with independent media outlets actively reporting on governance and human rights without fear. The report noted the presence of 47 radio stations, five television channels, and multiple newspapers, alongside a growing number of online platforms, contributing to a “vibrant and pluralistic press environment”.
A significant development in human rights was the ECOWAS Heads of State and Government’s approval in December 2024 for the establishment of a Special Tribunal for The Gambia, aimed at addressing gross human rights violations committed during authoritarian rule (1994-2017). Domestically, the Prevention and Prohibition of Torture Act was enacted in 2023. The report also highlighted recent international convictions of alleged perpetrators, offering “renewed hope for victims”.
National reconciliation efforts include the declaration of February 16 as National Dialogue Day by President Adama Barrow, fostering inclusive national conversations. The Inter-Party Committee (IPC) has played a crucial role in promoting inter-party tolerance and national cohesion.
Regarding refugees and statelessness, The Gambia hosts over 4,600 persons of concern, predominantly from Senegal. The country is addressing statelessness, particularly in communities like Ghana Town, where a 2024 survey revealed approximately 94% of over 600 residents are at risk due to the absence of official identification. Recommendations to simplify naturalisation and implement inclusive policies have been presented to the National Assembly.
Environmental and Climate Challenges
A significant portion of the report was dedicated to the environmental situation, particularly the “serious threats” posed by climate change to The Gambia’s critical agricultural sector. The country’s low-lying coastal geography makes it highly vulnerable to flooding, coastal erosion, droughts, and intense storms, with climate-related disasters occurring approximately every two years over the past three decades.
The government has launched initiatives like the Gambia Agriculture and Food Security Project (GAFSP) and received World Bank financing for the Gambia Inclusive and Resilient Agricultural Value Chain Development (GIRAV) Project, aiming to enhance food security and promote climate-resilient practices for over 200,000 farmers.
Infrastructure is both a contributor to and victim of environmental challenges. Banjul, the capital, faces threats to its international seaport from rising sea levels and flooding, potentially leading to significant revenue losses. The Senegambia Bridge is also vulnerable to climate-induced stressors, with ongoing efforts to fortify its resilience. Plastic pollution is another significant challenge, with a National Action Plan introduced in October 2024 aiming to reduce plastic waste by 86% over the next decade.
In the energy sector, investments have significantly improved access to affordable and reliable electricity, with 74% of Gambians having power by the end of 2024. The country is pursuing green mini-grids and exploring sustainable mining practices.
ECOWAS Integration and Implementation
The Gambia highlighted its proactive role in implementing ECOWAS community texts and initiatives. The National Early Warning and Response Mechanism Coordinating Centre (NCCRM) has been operationalised, providing advice on human security threats and collaborating with the ECOWAS Commission.
The country has also aligned its national standards for clean fuels and vehicles with ECOWAS directives, adopting a Nigerian model to phase out high-sulphur fuels. Furthermore, The Gambia has been instrumental in implementing the ECOWAS regulation on roaming, signing free-roaming agreements with Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone to reduce communication costs and enhance regional connectivity, with phased implementation beginning on May 2, 2025.
The delegation concluded by reiterating The Gambia’s unwavering commitment to the ideals of the regional bloc and its integration process.
Analysis:
The Gambian report paints a picture of a nation actively engaged in post-authoritarian reconstruction and democratic strengthening. The emphasis on increased political participation, judicial reforms, and the establishment of human rights mechanisms demonstrates a clear commitment to consolidating the gains of its democratic transition. The forthcoming Special Tribunal for human rights violations, supported by ECOWAS, marks a critical step towards accountability and victim redress, setting a significant precedent for regional justice.
However, the report candidly addresses the multifaceted challenges confronting the country. The acknowledgment of early warning indicators for potential unrest, even amidst democratic progress, underscores the fragility of new democracies and the importance of sustained efforts in good governance and economic stability. The reliance on social media as a tool for both engagement and agitation highlights a common dilemma in the digital age, demanding careful management.
Crucially, the report brings to the fore The Gambia’s extreme vulnerability to climate change. The detailed account of frequent natural disasters, threats to agriculture, and risks to critical infrastructure like the Banjul port and the Senegambia Bridge serves as a stark reminder of the existential threat climate change poses to low-lying coastal nations in West Africa. The proactive policy frameworks and international partnerships aimed at building resilience are commendable but underscore the immense scale of the challenge and the need for sustained international support.
The Gambian delegation’s active participation in implementing ECOWAS protocols, particularly in areas like early warning mechanisms, clean fuels, and regional roaming, reinforces its role as a committed member of the bloc. The free-roaming agreements, in particular, are tangible examples of how regional integration directly benefits citizens, fostering greater connectivity and economic activity.
Overall, The Gambia’s report presents a nation navigating complex transitions, demonstrating both resilience and a clear understanding of its ongoing developmental and environmental challenges. Its engagement with ECOWAS appears robust, signalling a reliance on regional solidarity to bolster national progress.
Add Comment