Africa-Press – Gambia. The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), with support from the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched a three-day internal validation workshop in Jarra Soma, Lower River Region, to review and refine its Strategic Plan for 2025–2029.
This strategic initiative marks a significant milestone in the IEC’s ongoing efforts to improve institutional performance, strengthen electoral systems, and ensure readiness for the upcoming 2026 Presidential Election, as well as the 2027 legislative and local government elections.
According to an official statement, the forthcoming Strategic Plan aims to build upon the achievements of the previous electoral cycle while addressing emerging challenges related to democratic consolidation and inclusive political participation in The Gambia.
The internal validation workshop serves as a platform for IEC leadership and technical staff to engage in focused discussions around the Commission’s strategic direction over the next five years. Key areas under review include institutional capacity development, communication strategies, stakeholder engagement, and operational preparedness. The goal is to produce a robust, results-driven strategic plan that is responsive to the country’s evolving electoral needs.
Speaking at the opening session, IEC Vice Chairman underscored the importance of strategic planning in ensuring credible, transparent, and inclusive elections.
“This strategic planning process reaffirms the Commission’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and service to the people of The Gambia. It reflects our shared vision to continuously strengthen electoral integrity and public trust in democratic processes,” he noted.
Mr. James Monibah, Project Manager of the EU-UNDP Governance Reform, Accountability, and Transparency (GREAT) Project, also highlighted the longstanding collaboration between UNDP and the IEC.
“In The Gambia, UNDP has provided significant support to the IEC to strengthen the country’s electoral infrastructure and advance its democratic processes. Between 2021 and 2023, UNDP refurbished and equipped several regional IEC offices, including those in Kanifing, Brikama, Kerewan, Mansakonko, and Basse, thereby enhancing the Commission’s operational efficiency and preparedness for future elections,” he said.
He added that UNDP’s assistance throughout the electoral cycle places a strong emphasis on human rights and gender equality in all aspects of electoral engagement.
The validation workshop is being conducted under the EU-UNDP GREAT Project, which offers technical and financial support to national institutions involved in governance reform, civic education, electoral assistance, and anti-corruption initiatives.
“The support for the IEC’s strategic planning process aligns with broader objectives to foster accountable, inclusive, and participatory governance in The Gambia. The validation of the IEC Strategic Plan is part of a series of targeted interventions aimed at reinforcing electoral preparedness and public confidence in state institutions.”
The Statement added that the workshop will conclude on 25 June 2025. Once finalized, the IEC Strategic Plan 2025–2029 will be formally adopted and serve as the Commission’s guiding framework for implementation and resource mobilization throughout the 2026–2027 electoral cycle.
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