The Gambia increases 2026 education budget by 16.2%

The Government of The Gambia has announced a significant increase in its education budget for 2026, allocating D5.9 billion to the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education (MoBSE). This represents a 16.2 percent increase over the previous year's allocation. According to Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Seedy K. M Keita, the rise is driven by increased subventions and personnel emoluments to improve school staffing and support.

Key components of the 2026 budget include D352.4 million for the School Improvement Grant, D250 million for school feeding programs to encourage student retention, and D230.9 million to cover WAEC examination fees. Additionally, funds are earmarked for the Programme for Public Administration Modernization Project and the Gambia National Library Service Authority.

In a separate development related to educational infrastructure and development, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education is seeking consultant services to develop a communication strategy. This initiative is supported by USD 18.8 million in financing from the World Bank under the Results for Education Achievement and Development (READ) project.