Banjul, 20th February 2025: The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Deputy Resident Representative has highlighted the importance of the partnership between UNDP and Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) in advancing democratic governance in The Gambia.
Ms. Evelyn Edroma was speaking during the handing over of the newly refurbished Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) Regional Office in Kanifing to the Commission.
The handing over ceremony, held at the IEC office along Kairaba Avenue, marked a significant milestone in strengthening The Gambia’s electoral infrastructure.
Ms. Edroma also announced ongoing discussions with the IEC to establish a comprehensive electoral support project ahead of the 2026 electoral cycle. She stressed the importance of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in the democratic process.
She added that her office will also deliver the office in Janjangbureh, reaffirming their unwavering commitment to strengthening The Gambia’s electoral processes as part of the Recovery-Focused National Development Plan.
She emphasised that UNDP, as the largest provider of electoral assistance within the UN system, is dedicated to supporting all phases of elections; which is before, during, and after Election Day.
“By investing GMD 4.3 million to refurbish and equip the IEC office, we are ensuring it is well-equipped to conduct inclusive, peaceful, and credible elections in line with its mandate. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance inclusive political participation for transformative societal change,” she stated.
She went on: “The recent GBoS census shows that women make up 51% of The Gambia’s population, while youth aged 15 to 35 accounts for 77%. It is imperative that we actively engage these groups to secure their full participation in the country’s democratic processes.”.
Vice Chairman of the IEC, Joseph Colley, expressed gratitude for UNDP’s support, stating that free, fair, and transparent elections are impossible without sufficient human and capital resources.
He however noted that while the IEC prides itself on its dedicated workforce, the Commission has faced serious resource constraints, particularly in its regional offices.
Mr Colley lamented the lack of adequate office space, storage facilities, and reliable water supply, all of which are hindering their work.
To address these concerns, he stated, UNDP conducted a needs assessment and initiated the refurbishment of four IEC regional offices in Brikama, Kerewan, Mansakonko, and Basse between 2021 and 2023.
“These improvements have significantly enhanced our operational efficiency and were a critical factor in the success of the last electoral cycle. We are confident that with continued support, the IEC will remain fully prepared to conduct credible and transparent elections in the coming years,” Colley concluded.
By Awa Sowe
IEC, UNDP to Partner on Comprehensive Electoral Support Project - Ahead of 2026 Electoral Cycle
