Government Suspends Non-Statutory Official Travel Amid Global Economic Pressure

Published by: The Fatu Network

The Office of the President has announced the immediate suspension of all non-statutory official travel by public officials across The Gambia, citing mounting economic strain linked to ongoing international conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the presidency said the decision was taken in response to “the prevailing global situation” and its growing impact on national resources. Authorities pointed to disruptions in international supply chains and reduced access to essential goods and services, warning that these developments are placing increased pressure on the country’s finances.

The statement said the situation has “had significant adverse effects on global economic conditions” and stressed that government must now adopt stricter spending controls. It added that the move is part of broader efforts to “adopt stringent fiscal measures and prioritise critical expenditures, in line with principles of prudent public financial management.”

Under the directive, all non-statutory travel is suspended with immediate effect and will remain so until further notice. However, the presidency noted that limited exceptions may be granted in cases where travel is legally required and cannot be avoided.

“In exceptional cases where travel is strictly statutory, unavoidable, and demonstrably essential, prior approval must be obtained from the Office of the President before any travel arrangements are made,” the statement said.

It added that such requests must be “rigorously scrutinised, fully justified, and limited to the minimum number of officials required.” Responsibility for enforcing this requirement has been placed on senior government officials, including Permanent Secretaries, heads of departments and agencies, executive directors, chief executive officers, director generals, managing directors, and general managers.

The directive is grounded in existing legal and administrative frameworks, including the Public Finance Act, Financial Regulations, and the General Orders governing the public service. The government said the measure reflects its commitment to tighter control over public spending during a period of economic strain.

To ensure compliance, the Director General of Immigration has been instructed to block any public official attempting to travel on official duty without clearance from the Office of the President, regardless of whether the journey is by land, sea, or air.

“All Accounting Officers are required to ensure full compliance with this directive,” the statement said, warning that any breach “will constitute misconduct and may result in administrative and disciplinary action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations.”

The suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in place until further notice.