The Gambia National Assembly launches 5-year strategic plan to strengthen governance and democratic engagement

The National Assembly of The Gambia officially launched its 5-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2029) on 16 May 2025 at a high-level ceremony held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre. The Strategic Plan provides comprehensive guidelines to strengthen good governance and legislative oversight, improve institutional efficiency, and deepen public engagement in the democratic process. The development of the Strategic Plan was supported by the European Union through the EU-funded CODE project, implemented by the International IDEA.

The Strategic Plan was formally launched by His Excellency, the Vice President of The Gambia, H.E. Muhammed B.S. Jallow. The event was attended by distinguished personalities, including His Lordship the Chief Justice Hassan B. Jallow, Auditor General Modou Ceesay, EU Ambassador to The Gambia H.E. Immaculada Roca i Cortes, Members of the National Assembly, Senior Government Officials, Civil Society Representatives, Development Partners, and the Media - all highlighting the Strategic Plan's importance to national development.

Delivering the keynote address, Vice President H.E. Muhammed BS Jallow underscored the significance of the initiative, stating that it symbolizes the national aspirations of the New Gambia. “This Strategic Plan is more than a blueprint; it is a declaration of our shared commitment and a roadmap to ensure that Parliament becomes a stronger pillar of our democracy,” he noted. 

In his address, the Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, described the Strategic Plan as a vital framework to guide the Assembly’s work in serving The Gambian people more effectively. “This Strategic Plan is not merely a document; it is a solemn commitment to the citizens of The Gambia. It articulates our vision for a more responsive, accountable, and accessible National Assembly—one that truly embodies the aspirations of our nation. Over the next five years, we will work tirelessly to transform this institution into a beacon of democratic excellence,” the Speaker emphasized.

EU Ambassador H.E. Immaculada Roca i Cortés reaffirmed the European Union’s continued commitment to supporting The Gambia’s reform and democratic consolidation initiatives. “The EU remains a steadfast partner in your journey. This Strategic Plan addresses both structural and strategic priorities—from digital transformation and human resources to enhanced citizen engagement. It set a clear course for capacity building, improved legislative scrutiny, and a stronger oversight function,” she affirmed.

Clerk of the National Assembly, Mr. Kalipha M. M. Mbye, expressed gratitude to the EU and International IDEA for their significant contribution to the development and launch of the strategic plan, which was an outcome of extensive consultations with diverse stakeholders. “This Strategic Plan reflects a shared vision of a modern, effective, and people-centered Parliament. Its implementation will be driven by robust mechanisms to ensure meaningful connection with every Gambian,” Mr. Mbye stated.

The Strategic Plan is structured around five key pillars: Enhancing Legislative Scrutiny and Oversight; Improving Transparency and Access to Information; Boosting Public Participation and Engagement; Strengthening Institutional Capacity and Promoting Good Governance and Ethical Conduct.

These pillars, when implemented, are expected to usher in a new era of parliamentary development in The Gambia—fostering greater public trust, reinforcing democratic principles, and positioning the National Assembly as a central driver of national progress.