April 7,2026, Banjul, The Gambia: The Office of the President wishes to inform the general public that His Excellency, the President of the Republic of The Gambia, has directed the immediate suspension of all non-statutory official travel by public officials across Government.

This decision comesin response to the prevailing global situation arising from the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has had significant adverse effects on global economic conditions. These developments have disrupted international supply chains and constrained access to essential goods and services, thereby placing increased pressure on national resources.

In light of these challenges, Government has deemed it necessary to adopt stringent fiscal measures and prioritize critical expenditures, in line with principles of prudent public financial management. Accordingly, all non-statutory official travel is suspended with immediate effect and until further notice. However, in exceptional cases where travel is strictly statutory, unavoidable, and demonstrably essential, prior approval must be obtained from the Office ofthe President before any travel arrangements are made. Al such requests must be rigorously scrutinized, fully justified, and limitedto the minimum numberof officials required.

This responsibility rests with Permanent Secretaries, Headsof Departments and Agencies, Executive Directors, Chief Executive Officers, Director Generals, Managing Directors, General Managers, This directive is issued pursuant to the Government's commitment to ensuring the prudent managementof public resources and will be implemented in accordance with the Public Finance Act, Financial Regulations, and the General Orders governing the Public Service. To ensure strict enforcement, the Director General of Immigration has been instructed to deny exit clearance to any public official traveling on official duty without valid authorization from the Office the President,whether by land,sea, or air. All Accounting Officers are required to ensure full compliance with this directive.

Any breach will constitute misconduct and may result in administrativeand disciplinary action in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. This directive takes immediate effect and shall remain in force until otherwise advised.