Gambia Orders Banks to Replace Non-Gambian Staff by 2026
The Central Bank of The Gambia has directed commercial banks to gradually replace existing non-Gambian employees with suitably qualified Gambian nationals by the end of 2026.
The directive could significantly affect foreign-owned banks operating in the country, including subsidiaries of major Nigerian banking groups.
According to a September 16, 2026 circular signed by Paul J. Mendy, Second Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of The Gambia, banks are expected to complete the transition by December 31, 2026.
The regulator instructed banks to adopt a phased approach while ensuring that skills are transferred to local employees and that normal operations are not disrupted.
“Consequently, all banks are required to adopt a phased approach to replacing existing non-Gambian staff with suitably qualified Gambian nationals, with appropriate arrangements for skills transfer and continuity of operations,” the central bank said.
The directive followed a meeting between the regulator and managing directors of commercial banks on August 27, where the employment of non-Gambian workers in the banking sector was discussed.
Central bank raises concerns over foreign workers
The regulator said an industry study found that banks employed a “relatively high number” of non-Gambian workers in addition to recognised expatriate employees.
“This is in violation of the provisions of the Labour Act 2023 and also not in line with guideline 9 on expatriate staff,” the regulator said.
Banks were subsequently directed to comply fully with the country’s labour laws and regulations governing the employment of expatriate workers.
“You are hereby directed to ensure full compliance with the law and strict compliance with CBG’s guidelines,” it stated.
The directive does not amount to an immediate blanket ban on foreign employees. Instead, it requires banks to replace affected non-Gambian workers with qualified Gambians while transferring their skills and responsibilities to local employees. (BusinessDay)
Nigerian banks face possible impact
The development is relevant to several Nigerian banking groups that operate subsidiaries in The Gambia.
They include Access Bank, FirstBank, Guaranty Trust Bank and Zenith Bank. Ecobank Gambia is also part of Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, a pan-African banking group headquartered in Togo.
The Central Bank of The Gambia’s official register lists 11 active commercial banks in the country, including Access Bank Gambia, First Bank Gambia, Guaranty Trust Bank Gambia and Zenith Bank Gambia. (Central Bank of The Gambia)
However, the directive is addressed to all banks operating in The Gambia and does not specifically target Nigerian-owned institutions.
The affected banks are expected to identify suitable local replacements, establish succession plans and transfer the necessary knowledge and responsibilities before the December deadline.
Skills transfer becomes important
The central bank has instructed banks to ensure that the localisation process does not interfere with their operations.
This means institutions will have to manage the replacement of affected employees while maintaining essential banking functions.
Specialised areas could require particular attention because some roles require specific technical, regulatory or operational expertise.
The Labour Act 2023 provides a framework for employing expatriates where particular skills are not readily available locally, while also requiring arrangements for Gambian employees to understudy expatriate workers. (Proshare)
The regulator’s latest directive therefore places greater emphasis on developing local expertise and gradually transferring responsibilities to Gambian nationals.
Banks now have until December 31, 2026, to complete the transition while maintaining business continuity.
