By Adama Makasuba
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), in partnership with the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), SICPA, and Vista Bank, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marking a major milestone towards the full implementation of a Revenue Assurance System for the telecommunications sector.
The agreement, signed at the GRA head office in Banjul, is expected to enhance transparency, strengthen compliance, and introduce realtime monitoring of revenues in one of the country’s most vital sectors.
Delivering the keynote address, GRA Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe described the moment as the culmination of years of determination and reform efforts.
“This was a difficult journey, but finally we are here. It took us almost three years before we got to this level. It was never easy. It was tough… but we knew exactly what we wanted, and we kept pushing,” he said.
He emphasised that the signing represents the final stage before the full rollout of the system, which he described as transformative for revenue administration in The Gambia.
“Today is the day. Today is our day. This signing represents the commencement of the Revenue Assurance System, which is going to fundamentally change how we administer taxes in the telecommunications sector,” he said.
He noted that the initiative forms part of a broader reform agenda undertaken by the government through the Ministry of Finance, in partnership with SICPA, covering three key components: digital tax stamps, fuel marking, and the telecom revenue assurance system.
“I am pleased to note that the digital tax stamp and fuel marking initiatives have already been successfully implemented. These systems have significantly improved transparency, reduced leakages, enhanced compliance, and most importantly, increased government revenue,” Darboe stated.
Highlighting the impact of these earlier reforms, he added: “Since we started the fuel marking system, revenue has jumped from around D250 million to over D500 million on a monthly basis. That tells you what technology can do when properly deployed.”
Turning to the new system, Darboe described it as a “game changer” that will, for the first time, give the GRA direct access to real-time telecom data.
“For the first time in the history of this country, we will have access to real-time data on telecom transactions. Before companies even submit their returns, we will already know what is expected. This will drastically reduce under-declarations, improve compliance, and enhance audit efficiency,” he said.
He further explained that the system goes beyond revenue collection and will support national development planning through accurate data.
“Data is now gold. With this system, government will have reliable and timely data to make informed policy decisions. It is not just about revenue; it is about governance and planning,” he added.
Mr Darboe also acknowledged the challenges faced during implementation, noting that reforms often encounter resistance but must be pursued in the national interest.
“We always expect challenges when we introduce reforms, especially in sectors that are affected. But if what you are doing is in the interest of the country, you must keep pushing. At the end of the day, you will see the results,” he said.
Also, speaking at the event, Solo Sima, Deputy Director General of PURA, said the agreement reflects a major step forward in institutional collaboration and governance.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the evolution of public sector collaboration in The Gambia. The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding is not merely a procedural step.
It is a decisive move towards strengthening the integrity, transparency, and efficiency of revenue collection in our country,” he said.
“This Agreement establishes a structured and accountable framework for the collection, management, and disbursement of telecom system management fees through a controlled escrow mechanism.
In practical terms, it introduces discipline, visibility, and shared oversight into a space that is critical to national development.” Sima noted that collaboration between PURA and the GRA has already delivered results in other sectors.
“The collaboration between PURA and the Gambia Revenue Authority is not new. Over the past few years, our institutions have worked closely on the implementation of the fuel marking programme. That collaboration has continued to deliver tangible results,” he said.
“It has significantly strengthened control mechanisms across the downstream petroleum sector and improved the Authority’s ability to safeguard fuel quality in the market.” He added that the partnership has also improved compliance and public confidence. “This has enhanced transparency, reduced opportunities for malpractice, and reinforced public confidence in regulatory oversight,” he said.
Mr Sima emphasised that the initiative goes beyond telecom revenue.
“This is more than a telecom initiative. It is a clear signal that The Gambia is embracing digital transformation in governance, strengthening institutional collaboration, and positioning itself for improved domestic resource mobilisation,” he added.
