The-Gambia-National-Social-Protection-Policy-2015-2025

CONTENT

The National Social Protection Policy (2015–2025) of The Gambia aims to establish an inclusive, integrated, and comprehensive social protection system. It seeks to alleviate poverty, reduce vulnerability, and build resilience to shocks while promoting human development, economic productivity, and inclusive growth.

Specific Objectives

1. Safeguard Welfare: Protect the poorest and most vulnerable populations through social assistance and welfare measures.

2. Shock Protection: Prevent vulnerable populations from falling into poverty during transitory shocks by introducing contributory and non-contributory social insurance schemes.

3. Promote Livelihoods: Enhance the income and productivity of economically active but vulnerable populations through livelihood support and employment schemes.

4. Reduce Social Risks: Address social risks like discrimination and exclusion through legislative measures and social services.

5. Strengthen Governance: Improve leadership, coordination, and institutional capacity to design and deliver effective social protection programs.

Summary 

The National Social Protection Policy (2015–2025) provides a framework to modernize and expand The Gambia's social protection system. It identifies gaps in coverage, financing, and institutional capacity and proposes reforms to address these challenges. The policy emphasizes rights-based programming, social inclusion, and sustainable funding. Key measures include:

• Introducing cash transfer schemes and expanding social welfare services.

• Developing health insurance and contributory social security mechanisms.

• Promoting livelihoods through public works programs and skills training.

• Strengthening governance structures and monitoring systems.

The policy envisions a future where all Gambians, especially the most vulnerable, have access to reliable and sustainable social protection, contributing to poverty reduction, resilience building, and inclusive economic growth.