The Gambia is stepping up efforts to ensure safe and legal employment opportunities for its citizens abroad. Through agreements with Saudi Arabia and Spain, the government is providing structured programs that protect workers while promoting international experience.
In February 2025, a Domestic Workers Bilateral Labor Agreement with Saudi Arabia was signed, allowing Gambian women to work legally as domestic employees. Ten licensed recruitment agencies operate under strict oversight, with Gambian missions in Riyadh and Jeddah monitoring worker welfare. Reports of issues have been investigated, with some claims found to be misleading or unrelated to the program.
A Seasonal Labor Agreement with Spain offers temporary employment in agriculture and other sectors. The first group of 39 workers traveled at employer expense, with contracts lasting six months and renewable for up to four seasons. Workers complete registration and contracts in Spain, ensuring full legal compliance.
The Criminal Intelligence and Interpol Bureau (CIIB) actively monitors compliance, verifying that workers travel voluntarily and through legal channels. “We act immediately to safeguard our citizens,” said CIIB representative James P. Mendy.
The Ministry of Trade emphasized that all recruitment agencies are licensed and closely monitored. With these agreements and oversight measures, The Gambia is taking a proactive approach to labor migration, ensuring citizens seeking work abroad do so safely and legally.
