The Gambia Circular Economy Diagnostic aims to identify circular economy opportunities within the tourism sector. Despite its significant potential, The Gambia faces substantial challenges in resource efficiency and environmental sustainability, particularly in areas like plastic waste management and recycling. Although the tourism sector has attracted over $45 million in foreign investments since 2015, only a small fraction of these funds has been directed toward managing tourism's environmental impact.
This study finds municipal solid waste generation has risen from 0.4 million tons in 2011 to 0.6 million tons in 2020, with organic waste making up 51% of the total waste. Waste management in the country is fragmented, characterized by limited formal collection services. The energy sector is heavily dependent on non-renewable sources, primarily oil, with renewable energy contributing only 43% of the energy supply. While the Gambia River offers ample surface water, the country’s potable water supply is primarily drawn from groundwater, which is at risk of contamination and over-extraction.
This report provides strategies to improve resource efficiency and promote circularity, tailored to The Gambia's unique geographic and economic landscape. The study also assessed the size of the potential market for sustainability initiatives in the tourism sector. Findings reveal a strong willingness among tourism businesses to adopt sustainable practices, though challenges such as financial constraints and lack of infrastructure remain.
High-priority initiatives identified include the establishment of an Integrated Waste Management Facility in Kanifing and the introduction of electric riverboat excursions and transport along The Gambia River. These initiatives aim to create a more sustainable waste management system, significantly reducing plastic waste while generating improving diversification of tourism to the river and providing economic benefits through job creation and increased business sales.
Supporting these initiatives will require institutional and regulatory reforms. Key recommendations include implementing green procurement practices, training hotels and restaurants in proper waste management, updating the Waste Bill, and integrating sustainable tourism practices into the National Tourism Policy and Strategy. By taking these steps, The Gambia can strengthen its economic resilience and environmental sustainability, positioning itself as a leader in circular economy practices within the tourism sector.
In February, 2025, the World Bank launched the first of these follow-up initiatives, the sustainability training for hotels and restaurants with a free online course available to all. For more details contact: bconteh@worldbank.org.
Country context on tourism
The tourism sector is a significant contributor to GDP and employment, with an estimated contribution of 14.3% to GDP and about 13.5% to employment, according to estimates from the World Tourism and Travel Council. International tourist arrivals reached 206,836 visitors in 2023—a 13% increase from the level in 2022 and 2 times higher than in 2021. Despite the strong recovery, i) tourist arrivals remain below pre-pandemic levels, ii) tourism activity remains in a relatively confined area on the coast near Banjul and iii) most of the consumption in the tourism sector is imported rather than locally grown. While it is common for low-income countries to have a more significant international tourism sector compared to domestic tourism, in The Gambia, this is further compounded by the dominant role of international tourism operators. This dominance can limit the growth and influence of local operators, reducing the potential benefits to the local economy. Government investments in infrastructure, including roads, ports, and energy projects, aim to enhance operational efficiency and effectiveness within the sector.