Energy & Power Sector: The World Bank says The Gambia’s electricity tariffs average about $0.21/kWh, among the highest globally, driven by weak sector finances, system losses and inefficient subsidies, even as access rises from 56% (2017) to 74% (2024). Offshore Oil & Gas: Government signed a Petroleum Exploration, Development and Production Licence Agreement with Eni for deepwater Block A1, with GNPC holding a 10% carried interest and an option to add 5% after discovery—marking Eni’s first entry into Gambia after earlier licence changes involving BP. Food & Consumer Safety: President Barrow inaugurated the country’s first National Food and Drug Quality Control Laboratory (World Bank-funded), aimed at faster local testing, better detection of unsafe products and stronger regulation for medicines, food and cosmetics. Trade & Agriculture Standards: FSQA launched a National Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Committee to coordinate food safety and plant/animal health systems and support WTO compliance and market access. Public Finance: The budget deficit narrowed 67% in Q1 2026 as revenue reached D7.68bn and tax collection strengthened; government also reported D1.36bn in debt repayments. Water Infrastructure: NAWEC says new water projects (including a Tujereng treatment plant and other schemes) are meant to close the widening supply-demand gap. Tourism Regulation: Gambia Tourism Board warned against illegal tourism-zone construction and fencing, citing environmental damage and poor sanitation. Labour & Migration: Kuwait tightened domestic worker recruitment to a short approved list, while The Gambia reaffirmed migrant workers’ rights after a UN dialogue in Geneva. Education (Local Development): An MP in Prestea cut the sod for classroom blocks, redirecting birthday funds into school infrastructure.