The Gambia: Technical Assistance Report-Public Investment Management Assessment Update with the Climate Module

The Gambia Public Investment Management Assessment Update with the Climate Module

The Gambia has made significant progress in its democratic and economic reforms, with infrastructure investments aimed at improving key sectors like agriculture, energy, transport, and human capital. However, the country faces substantial funding gaps and limited fiscal space due to high debt levels. Infrastructure quality and access have improved, but challenges remain in public investment management effectiveness. Institutional design has improved, but effectiveness lags behind, hindered by a lack of a dedicated PIM team, absence of an IT system for project tracking, and unclear roles within MoFEA and budget agencies. External financing dominates public investment, with a focus on renewable energy and major projects like the Banjul Port expansion. The Gambia is vulnerable to climate change, particularly rising sea levels, requiring climate-resilient infrastructure. The public investment framework lacks integration of climate considerations, with outdated regulations and insufficient coordination. Recommendations include designing a simple PIMIS, establishing a centralized PIM unit, enforcing SOE Act requirements, reinstating capital expenditure ceilings, and incorporating climate criteria into project appraisal and selection. Climate adaptation measures include updating land-use regulations, using geo-location information in the asset register, and conducting climate risk assessments.