The Gambia passes 2027 budget with high debt service costs

The Gambia’s National Assembly has passed a D48.6 billion (US$666.5 million) spending bill for the 2027 fiscal year. The budget, which is set to take effect on January 1, 2027, allocates D16.17 billion (US$221.8 million) toward national debt service. This amount represents one third of the total government-funded spending, surpassing the combined allocations for education and health.

Finance Minister Seedy Keita presented the 2027 estimates in September. While the bill has passed the Assembly, it still awaits presidential assent. The high proportion of the budget dedicated to debt repayment highlights the significant fiscal pressure on the West African nation's ability to fund public services like schools and clinics.