A new Afrobarometer survey has revealed that a significant majority of Gambians are dissatisfied with the country’s economic situation, with many facing ongoing challenges in accessing basic necessities.

The survey, conducted between April and May 2024, shows that 77% of respondents describe the country’s economic condition as “bad” or “very bad.”

Additionally, nearly 60% of Gambians report poor personal living conditions, particularly in rural areas and among those experiencing high levels of poverty.

The findings highlight widespread hardship, with many Gambians unable to afford essential goods and services.

According to the survey, 75% of respondents reported going without cash income at least once in the past year, while 60% faced shortages of cooking fuel, and 57% lacked access to clean water.

“We are living in a constant struggle,” said one respondent from the Central River Region.

“It’s hard to get by when we can’t even provide the basics for our families.”

Afrobarometer’s research also found that although half of Gambians commend the government for its efforts to maintain roads and bridges, fewer than half are satisfied with its performance on issues like providing reliable electricity (42%), improving education (37%), and delivering water and sanitation services (35%).

The survey revealed that even fewer Gambians approve of the government’s handling of economic issues.

Just 3% believe the government is doing well in controlling prices, and only 9% approve of its job creation efforts.

“The rising cost of living is affecting everyone, from the market vendors to the teachers. People are struggling, and the government must take urgent action,” said a vendor in Banjul.

Health care was cited as the most pressing concern, with 55% of respondents calling it the top issue the government should address, followed by the cost of living (45%) and crime and security (34%).

Afrobarometer, a pan-African research network, conducted the survey with a nationally representative sample of 1,200 Gambians.

By Adama Makasuba