By: Momodou S Gagigo
The Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) has unveiled ambitious plans to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its operations, marking a significant step toward modernizing tax administration and boosting national revenue.
Speaking at a recent press briefing, GRA Commissioner General Yankuba Darboe announced that the AI-driven system will digitize key processes, enhance transparency, and minimize revenue leakages. The initiative includes the rollout of digital tax stamps, electronic invoicing (e-invoicing), and a National Single Window platform for streamlined trade documentation.
“This will make our task easier, more transparent, and accountable. We have to adapt to world standards of digitalization,” Darboe emphasized.
Digital tax stamps, already successfully implemented on bottled water and flour, enable real-time tracking of products from manufacturing to retail, significantly reducing opportunities for tax evasion. The GRA intends to extend this measure to additional commodities in the coming months.
The new AI system is projected to deliver multiple benefits: increased revenue mobilization, reduced tax leakages, greater accountability, and improved taxpayer experience. These reforms align with the government’s broader strategy to modernize the tax ecosystem and strengthen domestic resource mobilization.
In parallel, the GRA has established a dedicated Staff Conduct Unit to oversee employee behavior, promote accountability, and uphold transparency within the organization. Complementary staff capacity-building programs are also underway to equip personnel with the skills needed for the digital transition.
Addressing businesses operating outside the formal tax net, Commissioner General Darboe issued a strong appeal for voluntary compliance. “The Gambia is a tax-based country. We encourage you to come forward, register, and pay your taxes,” he said, noting that unregistered entities can be identified through their tax identification numbers.
Darboe further urged citizens to play an active role in revenue protection by reporting suspected tax evasion to the nearest GRA office.
The introduction of AI and supporting reforms signals a new era for tax administration in The Gambia, with officials optimistic that enhanced efficiency and accountability will translate into higher revenues to support national development priorities.
