The Gambia Revenue Authority has recorded a significant surge in revenue collection, with officials crediting years of digital reforms and improved compliance systems for the strong performance rather than increases in tax rates.
Commissioner General Yusupha Darboe revealed that the Authority’s annual revenue has grown dramatically from approximately $52 million in 2006 to about $469 million by the end of 2025. He described the growth as a “remarkable achievement” driven by strategic reforms aimed at expanding the tax base, improving efficiency, and blocking revenue leakages.
Speaking at an event attended by Adama Barrow, cabinet ministers, and business leaders, Darboe emphasized that the gains were not the result of higher taxes but rather the outcome of deliberate modernization efforts.
“Since GRA was created in 2006, annual revenue has grown significantly… This remarkable achievement has not been driven by increase in tax rates, but by deliberate reforms to block leakages, enhance efficiency through digitalization, and strengthen compliance,” he said.
The momentum has continued into 2026, with the Authority reporting revenue collections of about $143 million in the first quarter, exceeding its target by 3 percent and representing a 14 percent increase compared to the same period last year. March 2026 marked a historic milestone, with over $55 million collected in a single month for the first time.
Both the Customs and Excise Department and the Domestic Taxes Department posted strong growth in 2025, increasing by 22 percent and 21 percent respectively. Analysts say this balanced growth across departments indicates systemic improvement rather than isolated gains.
Central to this success is an ambitious digital transformation agenda that has reshaped how taxes are administered and collected in The Gambia. Key systems introduced include the ASYCUDA World platform for customs operations, digital tax stamps for excisable goods, electronic cargo tracking, and a Single Window system that streamlines customs clearance processes.
Additional innovations such as a fuel integrity monitoring system and a digital weighbridge at the port have also helped improve transparency and reduce revenue losses. These technologies have enhanced oversight across critical sectors, ensuring that taxes are accurately assessed and collected.
The Authority is continuing to expand its digital infrastructure with several ongoing projects. These include a revenue assurance system for the telecommunications sector, an Integrated Tax Administration System supporting electronic registration, filing and payment, an electronic VAT invoicing system, and a digital compliance tool targeting rental income.
“These reforms are designed to expand the tax base, enhance transparency, block revenue leakages, and improve service delivery,” Darboe stated, highlighting the long term vision behind the modernization strategy.
He also acknowledged the support of development partners such as the International Monetary Fund, World Bank, European Union, and African Development Bank, whose technical and financial assistance has contributed to the reform process.
Looking ahead, the Authority has set an ambitious revenue target of approximately $520 million for 2026. While acknowledging the challenges, Darboe expressed confidence in achieving the goal with continued taxpayer cooperation.
“While this is ambitious, GRA remains fully committed to achieve it with the continued support of our compliant taxpayers,” he said.
The event also celebrated tax compliance, with more than 30 companies and individuals honoured for exemplary performance in 2025. Africell was named Large Taxpayer of the Year, reflecting its significant contribution to national revenue.
Darboe described the recognition ceremony as a reaffirmation of a broader national vision, where domestic resource mobilization plays a central role in financing development.
“Every dalasi paid in taxes contributes directly to the growth and progress of The Gambia. Paying taxes is not merely a legal obligation; it is a patriotic duty and a direct investment in nation building,” he said.
The GRA’s success story is increasingly being cited as a model for other African countries seeking to improve revenue collection without placing additional tax burdens on citizens. By leveraging technology and strengthening compliance systems, the Authority has demonstrated how structural reforms can drive sustainable fiscal growth.
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