Telecommunications leader Africell has been named Gambia’s highest taxpayer for the year 2024, reaffirming its dominant role in the country’s economy. The recognition was awarded during a ceremony at the Coco Ocean Hotel, where Africell was celebrated for maintaining its top position for a second consecutive year.
Africell contributes more than one billion dalasi annually to the national treasury, making it a significant force in funding public services and infrastructure. The event, which was attended by President Adama Barrow and other dignitaries, highlighted the importance of tax compliance in driving national progress.
The selection criteria for the award included timely submission of tax returns, customs declarations, and prompt payment of duties.
In his remarks, President Barrow stressed the crucial role taxpayers play in the nation’s growth, especially as Gambia faces limited resources. He emphasized that domestic revenue is vital to sustaining development in the face of declining foreign aid.
Barrow noted the government’s efforts to improve revenue generation, citing an increase in tax collections from D7.1 billion in 2017 to D20.83 billion in 2024—a 163.7 percent rise attributed to sound economic policies.
He also applauded the efforts of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) under the leadership of Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe, whose drive to reform and digitalise the tax system has been instrumental in enhancing efficiency.
Commissioner Darboe addressed the need for greater self-reliance, given the drop in external assistance and mounting debt levels. He called for renewed focus on domestic resource mobilisation to support development and reduce inequality.
He extended gratitude to all taxpayers and assured that the GRA remains committed to improving its services and strengthening its relationship with the public.
