Gambia announces measures to mitigate effects of economic hardship
Banjul, Gambia (PANA) - The Gambian cabinet has commissioned an eight-member economic taskforce to look into the recent rise in fuel and commodity prices and the implication of the Russia-Ukraine war on all sectors of the economy.
A statement made available to PANA on Wednesday said that the Taskforce is to develop "a diagnostic analysis" of the current situation of the economy and recommend measures to mitigate the impact of the conflict on the living conditions of Gambians.
The taskforce consists of officials from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Affairs, Accountant-General's Department, Gambia Revenue Authority, Gambia Public Procurement Authority, Central Bank, Ministry of Trade Regional Integration and Employment, Gambia Investment and Export Promotion Agency and Ministry of Agriculture. The Taskforce is expected to present a report in two weeks.
The statement stated that the Secretary-General and Head of the Civil Service, Mr Noah Touray, indicated that fundamental factors for the economic challenges, such as the COVID 19 pandemic and the Ukraine war, have manifested in a reduction in economic activity, revenue generation and a surge in the prices of fuel and other commodities.
“The Government has taken fiscal and austerity measures to ensure its continued functioning by reducing spending on overseas travel, fuel and lubricants, and telecommunications allowances," the government said.
The Government said it will revise and administer spending with immediate effect and until further notice.
Mr. Touray said the government has suspended overseas travels except for statutory meetings of the United Nations, Economic Community of West African States, African Union, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank or where the organisers will fully pay the cost of participation in such overseas events.
The measures also include paying half per diem for the missions where the Government will provide accommodation.
According to the statement telecommunications bills, provision of postpaid mobile telephones for public officials will be limited to senior officials and relevant security functionaries, with limits.
Mr. Touray said that Ministries, Departments and Agencies must keep expenditure on fuel and lubricants to the barest minimum. The Government has reduced all monthly fuel allocation to eligible officials by 20%.
-0- PANA MSS/MA 13April2022
