UDP leader Ousainou Darboe has unveiled an ambitious programme centred on agricultural transformation, fisheries reform, anti-corruption and prudent spending, pledging to restore the economy if elected president.
Speaking during an exclusive interview with The Point at his Pipeline office on Tuesday, Darboe outlined a wide-ranging agenda covering security sector reforms, agriculture, fisheries, youth empowerment and governance, insisting his administration would improve livelihoods and restore confidence in government institutions.
For Darboe, the message is clear: a UDP government would focus on reducing waste, empowering farmers, tackling corruption, creating jobs and placing The Gambia on the path to sustainable prosperity.
Cutting Government Waste
As part of efforts to cut unnecessary spending, Darboe said his administration would review and abolish some presidential advisory positions.
Positions such as Political Adviser and Youth Adviser would be unnecessary, he argued.
“The National Youth Council already exists and is capable of advising government on youth-related matters. If I need political advice, I can consult my party and those with the requisite expertise,” he said.
Rationalising expenditure, he said, would free resources for sectors that directly impact citizens.
Agriculture as Priority
Agriculture would be among the top priorities. Darboe disclosed plans to substantially increase support for farmers through targeted investments to boost food production and reduce food import dependence.
Among measures under consideration is providing fertiliser free of charge to farmers, funded by savings from cutting wasteful expenditure. He also pledged support for women gardeners.
He promised to invest in modern storage facilities for women in horticulture, noting inadequate storage causes major post-harvest losses.
“We must ensure that women who work tirelessly in food production do not lose their produce because there are no proper storage facilities,” he said.
He also plans to strengthen commercial agriculture and end heavy reliance on imported rice by working closely with private enterprises such as Maruo Farms, Jah Rice and other commercial ventures.
“We will create an enabling environment for farmers and agricultural businesses so that together we can drastically reduce rice importation,” he stated, recalling a time when The Gambia was more self-reliant.
Fisheries Review
On fisheries, Darboe vowed to review agreements signed with fishing companies operating in Gambian waters. Legitimate investors would remain welcome, but deals must serve the national interest.
“We are not going to send any company away, but we will review all agreements to ensure they are in the best interest of the Gambian people,” he said.
Companies would be encouraged to process fish locally rather than exporting raw products, to create jobs and add value.
“We want companies to process their catches here so that Gambians can benefit through jobs and increased economic activity,” he added.
Anti-Corruption and Governance
Darboe declared corruption a key challenge his administration would confront, pledging political will to ensure responsible management of public resources.
“We will ensure that national resources are used judiciously and accountably. Every dalasi spent must contribute to the development and welfare of Gambians,” he said.
On governance and security, he reiterated commitment to reforms to strengthen institutions, promote accountability and enhance public trust, describing effective governance and transparency as fundamental pillars for development.
As the political temperature rises ahead of the presidential election, Darboe expressed confidence that his vision for economic recovery, job creation and institutional reform will resonate with voters.