The National Assembly has approved the Appropriation Bill, 2026, setting the country’s government spending at GMD 43.49 billion for the upcoming fiscal year, up from GMD 37.85 billion in 2025.

The bill was passed during a plenary sitting after six weeks of detailed debate and sectoral scrutiny.

Key allocations in the 2026 budget show substantial increases: the Independent Electoral Commission’s funding more than doubled with a 115% rise, the Ministry of Agriculture will receive 87% more, the Ministry of Higher Education sees a 42% increase, and Pensions and Gratuities are set to grow by 22%.

Total government revenue, comprising tax and non-tax sources, is projected to reach GMD 32 billion, up from GMD 29 billion last year.

This growth is driven by improved collections within the Ministries of Interior, Health, Fisheries, and Water Resources.

The Estimates of Revenue and Expenditure were initially presented to the Assembly by the Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs on 31 October 2025.

Following extensive bilateral discussions with ministries, departments, and agencies, and debates on the Assembly floor, the Appropriation Bill was formally presented on 5 December 2025, in line with the 1997 Constitution and the National Assembly’s Standing Orders.

By Adama Makasuba