By: Isatou Sarr
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has officially handed over the newly refurbished Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Regional Office in Kanifing to the Commission. The handover ceremony, held yesterday at the IEC office along Kairaba Avenue, marks a significant milestone in strengthening The Gambia’s electoral infrastructure.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Evelyn Edroma, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative, highlighted the importance of the partnership between UNDP and IEC in advancing democratic governance in The Gambia.
“This Saturday, we will also deliver the office in Janjanbureh, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to strengthening The Gambia’s electoral processes as part of the recovery-focused national development plan,” she stated.
She emphasized that UNDP, as the largest provider of electoral assistance within the UN system, is dedicated to supporting all phases of elections—before, during, and after election day.
“By investing GMD 4.3 million to refurbish and equip the IEC office, we are ensuring it is well-equipped to conduct inclusive, peaceful, and credible elections in line with its mandate. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance inclusive political participation for transformative societal change,” she noted.
Ms. Edroma also announced ongoing discussions with the IEC to establish a comprehensive electoral support project ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle. She stressed the importance of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the democratic process.
“The recent GBoS census shows that women make up 51% of The Gambia’s population, while youth aged 15 to 35 account for 77%. It is imperative that we actively engage these groups to secure their full participation in the country’s democratic processes,” she concluded.
Strengthening Electoral Infrastructure, Joseph Colley, Vice Chairman of the IEC, representing Chairman Alieu Momarr Njai, expressed gratitude for UNDP’s support, stating that free, fair, and transparent elections are impossible without sufficient human and capital resources.
“While the IEC prides itself on its dedicated workforce, the Commission has faced serious resource constraints, particularly in its regional offices. Many lacked adequate office space, storage facilities, and even reliable water supply—challenges that have hindered our work,” he noted.
To address these concerns, UNDP conducted a needs assessment and initiated the refurbishment of four IEC regional offices in Brikama, Kerewan, Mansakonko, and Basse between 2021 and 2023.
“These improvements have significantly enhanced our operational efficiency and were a critical factor in the success of the last electoral cycle. We are confident that with continued support, the IEC will remain fully prepared to conduct credible and transparent elections in the coming years,” Colley stated.
