By: Fatou Krubally
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) recorded a landmark revenue collection of D20.83 billion in 2024, surpassing its annual target by over D1.8 billion. Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe revealed this at the 7th Annual Taxpayers’ Award Ceremony held on Saturday night at the Coco Ocean Resort.
Describing the achievement as a collective victory, the Commissioner General credited the feat to wide-ranging reforms, digital systems, and improved taxpayer compliance.
“This success was not achieved through increased tax rates, which have remained constant for almost a decade,” he emphasized. “Rather, it results from strategic reforms aimed at widening the tax base, improving compliance, and enhancing efficiency through digitalization.”
The 2024 collection reflects an 8% surplus over the D19.2 billion target and a 32% nominal growth compared to the previous year’s D15.79 billion. “In absolute terms, it’s a growth of over D5 billion,” Darboe said, drawing applause from the room packed with dignitaries, business leaders, and government officials.
The annual ceremony, now a major fixture in GRA’s calendar, celebrated top-performing taxpayers in various categories, recognizing their consistent compliance and timely filing. President Adama Barrow, attending for the third consecutive year, served as the Chief Guest of Honor.
Beyond the awards, the night showcased GRA’s reform journey. Highlights included the implementation of ASYCUDA WORLD, a digital excise stamp system, and a new e-tracking system for transit goods. The Authority is now rolling out cutting-edge systems such as a Revenue Assurance System for telecoms, an Integrated Tax Administration System, and a digital VAT and rental income solution.
Looking to 2025, the Commissioner General revealed that GRA has been assigned a new target of D23 billion, nearly D2 billion monthly. “The pressure is immense,” he admitted, “but with the ongoing reforms and the incredible support of our Board, Management, staff, and taxpayers, we will rise to the challenge.”
As lights dimmed on the elegant awards night, one message rang clear: GRA is not only meeting its targets, it’s redefining how tax administration supports national development. The Authority’s performance in 2024 sets the tone for an even more ambitious year ahead, driven by reform, technology, and strong public-private collaboration.
