The European Commission has granted €9 million (D 512,640,000) of budget support to help The Gambia to implement its responses to the coronavirus pandemic. 

A statement from the European Union said the EU budget support is to help The Gambia mitigate the economic and social costs from the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic.

Ambassador Attila Lajos, the EU Head of Delegation in The Gambia, said: 

“With this programme of Budget Support, the EU contributes to rapidly mitigate the most urgent budgetary needs of the Government in the context of the coronavirus crisis, and simultaneously supports the on-going political reforms. 

“It is an important milestone in Team Europe’s response to this crisis in The Gambia but also worldwide. No one is safe till everybody is safe.”

Mr Lajos added: “The Government of The Gambia has adopted a range of prevention and containment measures against the spread of the pandemic. At the same time, the country and the population are confronted with a drastic loss of revenues. 

“This rapid budget support will therefore contribute to cover unanticipated spending needs arising from the COVID-19 emergency and fending off the impact of COVID-19.”

The EU ambassador said: “This should help The Gambia to remain on the path of a successful democratic transition and economic recovery after the change of regime in early 2017. 

“Important milestones are ahead, including the Constitutional Referendum at the end of this year and the much-needed Security Sector Reform.

“The EU remains committed to help strengthening the democratic and economic governance as well as the resilience capacity in The Gambia. The EU therefore supports the priorities of the Government in view of encouraging inclusive and sustainable growth, human rights & democracy, and the rule of law.

“This budget support involves the transfer of €9,000,000 to the National Treasury of The Gambia. 

“These funds will be used in accordance with The Gambia’s own Public Financial Management systems and policy priorities.”