I. Overall Assessment

1. The Gambia is a participant in the General Data Dissemination System (GDDS) and started posting its metadata on the IMF’s Dissemination Standards Bulletin Board (DSBB) in May 2000. As documented in Appendix I, The Gambia meets some of the GDDS recommendations for macroeconomic statistics. The coverage of the government finance statistics (GFS) does not extend to general government, and periodicity recommendations for some data categories are not met. Some of The Gambia’s macroeconomic statistics are not disseminated within the periods recommended under the GDDS.

2. The Report on the Observance of Standards and Codes (ROSC)—Data Module contains the following main observations. The legal framework for statistical activity in The Gambia is broadly adequate even though further legislative effort is under way to promote greater autonomy or authority of some statistical agencies. There is scope to enhance resources and their management to permit improvements in the methodological basis, source of data underpinning most datasets, and dissemination. Considerable progress has been made with developing a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the statistical system, and the challenge now is to expedite the process of implementing the planned reforms.

3. In applying the IMF’s Data Quality Assessment Framework (DQAF), July 2003, the remainder of this section presents the mission’s main conclusions. The presentation is done at the level of the DQAF’s quality dimensions, by agency for the first two dimensions and across datasets for the remaining four.

4. On prerequisites of quality and assurances of integrity, The Gambia has broadly effective legal but relatively weak institutional frameworks to support the collection of statistics that remain in need of further improvements. The 2004 Budget Law, although an improvement, does not provide for compiling statistics for general government. The proposed Statistics and Central Bank Bills are in advanced stages of preparation to replace existing dated laws. Under the Central Bank of The Gambia Act (1992) and the Financial Institutions Act (2003), the Central Bank of The Gambia (CBG) has the legal authority and responsibility for collecting, compiling, and disseminating monetary statistics. The CBG’s legal authority to compile balance of payments statistics extends only to financial data and does not cover data on real sector, such as merchandise trade and services. Staff resources are inadequate for all sectors, especially for national accounts, while improved access to equipment and upgraded software is essential, particularly to replace the Wang-based accounting system for the GFS. Only limited processes are in place to focus on data quality. There is no program to regularly consult users or to promote quality within the Central Statistics Department (CSD) and Department of State for Finance and Economic Affairs (DOSFEA), although feedback on the relevance and practicality of balance of payments and monetary statistics is received during the course of responding to specific data requests from users. Professionalism is encouraged through recruitment of highly qualified staff, graduate training opportunities in some cases, and on-the-job training, and the CSD is fairly independent of the rest of the government. Pre-release access to data is given to other government agencies, but the details are not published. Measures to promote ethical standards for staff vary with minimal efforts at the CSD, while the CBG has recently strengthened its staff service rules and General Orders apply for qualification for appointment at the DOSFEA.

5. While most published series have a good methodological foundation, there are some significant deviations from the conceptual frameworks, notably in national accounts and balance of payments. Improvements in scope, classification, and sectorization are needed for most datasets, with national accounts, balance of payments, and GFS more affected by incomplete coverage. The basis for recording is appropriate for GFS, but international standards are not fully applied in national accounts and balance of payments.

6. The limited source data undermine the accuracy and reliability of most published statistics. This is especially the case in the compilation of national accounts and balance of payments, where there is inadequate effort to obtain data through surveys. The GFS has inadequate source data because of the accounting system. Moreover, the DOSFEA has not tried to collect data from local governments and thus compiles statistics on the operations of the general government. Monetary statistics lack details on the accounts of other depository corporations (ODCs) to permit accurate classification and sectorization. Processes for assessment and validation of source, intermediate, and output data are weak in most cases. Statistical techniques could be improved, especially in balance of payments and national accounts which rely on very dated data. No formal revision studies are undertaken in most sectors.

7. Serviceability of disseminated macroeconomic data needs improvement. The frequency and timeliness of disseminated data meet the GDDS requirements for national accounts, balance of payments, and monetary statistics. Statistical agencies could make further joint efforts to promote consistency of macroeconomic data. There are shortcomings in revision policy and practice, and revisions are not always identified and explained to the public.

8. Accessibility of macroeconomic data is hampered by limited resources, especially at the CSD, which does not publish data (except on prices), while difficulties with timely production of GFS data limit access to the public. The presentation of balance of payments data lacks sufficient details to facilitate proper interpretation by the public. Since 2002, the CBG has not published data. The only published metadata relate to the GDDS (published on the Fund’s DSBB). Contact points and details of available publications are not provided domestically.

9. Section II provides a summary assessment by agency and dataset based on a four-point scale. This is followed by staff recommendations in Section III. Practices compared to the GDDS are summarized in Appendix I. The authorities’ response to this report and a volume of detailed assessments are presented in separate documents.

II. Assessment by Agency and Dataset

10. An assessment of the quality of four macroeconomic datasets—national accounts, government finance, monetary, and balance of payments statistics—was conducted using the DQAF July 2003. In this section, the results are presented at the level of the DQAF elements and using a four-point rating scale (Table 1). Assessments of the prerequisites of data quality and the assurances of integrity (Dimensions “0” and “1” of the DQAF) are presented by data-compiling agency in Tables 2a–c. For each dataset, the assessment of methodological soundness, accuracy and reliability, serviceability, and accessibility (Dimensions “2” to “5” of the DQAF) are shown in Tables 3a–d.

Table 1.

The Gambia: Data Quality Assessment Framework, July 2003—Summary Results

Practice observed: current practices generally meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies. Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

Table 1.

The Gambia: Data Quality Assessment Framework, July 2003—Summary Results

Key to symbols: O = Practice Observed; LO = Practice Largely Observed; LNO =Practice Largely Not Observed; NO = Practice Not Observed; NA = Not Applicable
	Datasets	National Accounts	Government Finance Statistics	Monetary Statistics	Balance of Payments Statistics
Dimensions/Elements
0. Prerequisites of quality
0.1 Legal and institutional environment	O	LO	O	LO
0.2 Resources	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
0.3 Relevance	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
0.4 Other quality management	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
1. Assurances of integrity
1.1 Professionalism	LO	LO	LO	LO
1.2 Transparency	LO	LNO	LO	LO
1.3 Ethical standards	LO	LO	O	O
2. Methodological soundness
2.1 Concepts and definitions	LNO	LO	LO	LNO
2.2 Scope	LNO	LO	LO	LNO
2.3 Classification/sectorization	O	O	LO	LNO
2.4 Basis for recording	LO	O	LO	LO
3. Accuracy and reliability
3.1 Source data	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
3.2 Assessment of source data	O	LO	LO	LNO
3.3 Statistical techniques	LNO	LO	O	LNO
3.4 Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs	LO	LNO	LO	LO
3.5 Revision studies	NO	NO	LNO	NO
4. Serviceability
4.1 Periodicity and timeliness	O	LNO	LO	LO
4.2 Consistency	O	LO	LO	LO
4.3 Revision policy and practice	LO	LNO	LO	LNO
5. Accessibility
5.1 Data accessibility	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
5.2 Metadata accessibility	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
5.3 Assistance to users	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO

Practice observed: current practices generally meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies. Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

View Table

Table 1.

The Gambia: Data Quality Assessment Framework, July 2003—Summary Results

Key to symbols: O = Practice Observed; LO = Practice Largely Observed; LNO =Practice Largely Not Observed; NO = Practice Not Observed; NA = Not Applicable
	Datasets	National Accounts	Government Finance Statistics	Monetary Statistics	Balance of Payments Statistics
Dimensions/Elements
0. Prerequisites of quality
0.1 Legal and institutional environment	O	LO	O	LO
0.2 Resources	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
0.3 Relevance	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
0.4 Other quality management	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
1. Assurances of integrity
1.1 Professionalism	LO	LO	LO	LO
1.2 Transparency	LO	LNO	LO	LO
1.3 Ethical standards	LO	LO	O	O
2. Methodological soundness
2.1 Concepts and definitions	LNO	LO	LO	LNO
2.2 Scope	LNO	LO	LO	LNO
2.3 Classification/sectorization	O	O	LO	LNO
2.4 Basis for recording	LO	O	LO	LO
3. Accuracy and reliability
3.1 Source data	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
3.2 Assessment of source data	O	LO	LO	LNO
3.3 Statistical techniques	LNO	LO	O	LNO
3.4 Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs	LO	LNO	LO	LO
3.5 Revision studies	NO	NO	LNO	NO
4. Serviceability
4.1 Periodicity and timeliness	O	LNO	LO	LO
4.2 Consistency	O	LO	LO	LO
4.3 Revision policy and practice	LO	LNO	LO	LNO
5. Accessibility
5.1 Data accessibility	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO
5.2 Metadata accessibility	LNO	LNO	LNO	LNO
5.3 Assistance to users	LNO	LNO	LO	LNO

Practice observed: current practices generally meet or achieve the objectives of DQAF internationally accepted statistical practices without any significant deficiencies. Practice largely observed: some departures, but these are not seen as sufficient to raise doubts about the authorities’ ability to observe the DQAF practices. Practice largely not observed: significant departures and the authorities will need to take significant action to achieve observance. Practice not observed: most DQAF practices are not met. Not applicable: used only exceptionally when statistical practices do not apply to a country’s circumstances.

Table 2a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Central Statistics Department

Table 2a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Central Statistics Department

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The 1972 Statistical Act gives the CSD a strong legal basis for compiling statistics. The CSD has adequate data-sharing and coordination with other government agencies. Confidentiality of respondents’ data is guaranteed under the Statistical Act, although the magnitude of the fine for failure to submit data is now out-of-date. The CSD has effective procedures for protecting and disposing of respondents’ data. Resources Lack of staff is a critical issue for the national accounts. The existing numbers are only sufficient to produce annual GDP estimates, at current and constant prices, from the production approach. Improvements and the extension of the national accounts will require a significant increase in the number of staff. The existing accommodation is not conducive to good working conditions. However, computer facilities are adequate for the existing needs of the staff. Relevance There is no regular program of user consultation. However, consultations are undertaken for major projects. Other quality management There are no formal procedures to address quality issues.

Professionalism The 1972 Statistical Act does not explicitly guarantee the professional independence of the CSD. However, there has never been any attempt to compromise the professionalism of the agency. Staff are given every opportunity to take part in training courses and seminars. However, there is little research effort. The CSD is totally free to use whatever data sources it feels appropriate. Transparency The 1972 Statistical Act was published. There is internal government access to statistics prior to their release, but details are not made available to the public. Products are clearly identified as belonging to the CSD, even when published by another agency. Advance notice is given of major changes to the statistics. Ethical standards Some statements on ethics are contained in the appointment letter given to new staff. However, there is no program to provide regular reminders to existing staff.

View Table

Table 2a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Central Statistics Department

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment The 1972 Statistical Act gives the CSD a strong legal basis for compiling statistics. The CSD has adequate data-sharing and coordination with other government agencies. Confidentiality of respondents’ data is guaranteed under the Statistical Act, although the magnitude of the fine for failure to submit data is now out-of-date. The CSD has effective procedures for protecting and disposing of respondents’ data. Resources Lack of staff is a critical issue for the national accounts. The existing numbers are only sufficient to produce annual GDP estimates, at current and constant prices, from the production approach. Improvements and the extension of the national accounts will require a significant increase in the number of staff. The existing accommodation is not conducive to good working conditions. However, computer facilities are adequate for the existing needs of the staff. Relevance There is no regular program of user consultation. However, consultations are undertaken for major projects. Other quality management There are no formal procedures to address quality issues.

Professionalism The 1972 Statistical Act does not explicitly guarantee the professional independence of the CSD. However, there has never been any attempt to compromise the professionalism of the agency. Staff are given every opportunity to take part in training courses and seminars. However, there is little research effort. The CSD is totally free to use whatever data sources it feels appropriate. Transparency The 1972 Statistical Act was published. There is internal government access to statistics prior to their release, but details are not made available to the public. Products are clearly identified as belonging to the CSD, even when published by another agency. Advance notice is given of major changes to the statistics. Ethical standards Some statements on ethics are contained in the appointment letter given to new staff. However, there is no program to provide regular reminders to existing staff.

Table 2b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Department of State for Finance and Economic Affairs

Table 2b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Department of State for Finance and Economic Affairs

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment There is no specific law mandating, nor evidence of assigning responsibility to government for, the collection of GFS on the general government or the broader public sector, as part of a macroeconomic statistical framework for policymaking. However, the 2004 Budget Law promotes fiscal transparency, mandates the publication of budget execution progress and an annual statement of government accounts, and replaces the independent Accountant General’s Office with a Treasury Directorate under the DOSFEA Permanent Secretary. Resources While computers for statistical compilers are adequate, the Wang computer and its peripherals for the accounting system are seriously inadequate. Relevance There has been, prior to the mission, no survey of users and limited evidence of a responsibility for keeping the needs of non-officials in mind in the compilation and dissemination of fiscal data. Other quality management Only limited processes are in place to focus on quality. Management may be sensitive to quality dimensions, but has not taken sufficient actions to ensure the high quality of accounting data.

Professionalism While no specific law or formal provision is made for the compilation of GFS, there are significant examples of high professional standards and a General Order for qualifications for appointments. There is limited evidence of research papers. Transparency No information about the terms and conditions under which fiscal data are compiled and disseminated is available to the public, except for the Budget Law. There are neither agency publications nor websites with this information. No statistical publication identifies where more information on the fiscal data-compiling agency or its statistical products can be found. Ethical standards Guidelines for staff behavior are embedded in the General Orders, which concerns the conduct and discipline of public officials. There are no evident standards for ethical standards. A significant DOSFEA culture for maintaining ethical standards discourages outside interference with data compilation.

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Table 2b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—Department of State for Finance and Economic Affairs

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment There is no specific law mandating, nor evidence of assigning responsibility to government for, the collection of GFS on the general government or the broader public sector, as part of a macroeconomic statistical framework for policymaking. However, the 2004 Budget Law promotes fiscal transparency, mandates the publication of budget execution progress and an annual statement of government accounts, and replaces the independent Accountant General’s Office with a Treasury Directorate under the DOSFEA Permanent Secretary. Resources While computers for statistical compilers are adequate, the Wang computer and its peripherals for the accounting system are seriously inadequate. Relevance There has been, prior to the mission, no survey of users and limited evidence of a responsibility for keeping the needs of non-officials in mind in the compilation and dissemination of fiscal data. Other quality management Only limited processes are in place to focus on quality. Management may be sensitive to quality dimensions, but has not taken sufficient actions to ensure the high quality of accounting data.

Professionalism While no specific law or formal provision is made for the compilation of GFS, there are significant examples of high professional standards and a General Order for qualifications for appointments. There is limited evidence of research papers. Transparency No information about the terms and conditions under which fiscal data are compiled and disseminated is available to the public, except for the Budget Law. There are neither agency publications nor websites with this information. No statistical publication identifies where more information on the fiscal data-compiling agency or its statistical products can be found. Ethical standards Guidelines for staff behavior are embedded in the General Orders, which concerns the conduct and discipline of public officials. There are no evident standards for ethical standards. A significant DOSFEA culture for maintaining ethical standards discourages outside interference with data compilation.

Table 2c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—The Central Bank of The Gambia

Table 2c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—The Central Bank of The Gambia

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment Under the Central Bank of The Gambia Act (1992), and the Financial Institutions Act (2003), the CBG has the legal authority and responsibility for collecting, compiling, and disseminating monetary statistics. The CBG’s legal authority to compile balance of payments statistics extends only to financial data and does not cover data on real sector, such as merchandise trade and services. Resources Resources allocated for the collection, compilation, and dissemination of balance of payments and monetary statistics are substantially inadequate. Staff lack good functioning computers, modern statistical software, and necessary equipment to process, analyze, store, and transmit data more efficiently. The inefficient use of human resources and ad hoc assignments impede staff to develop the necessary skills for compiling balance of payments and monetary statistics. Relevance Feedback on the relevance and practicality of balance of payments and monetary statistics is not actively sought by compilers, except when received responding to specific data requests from users. Other quality management There is general understanding among the staff of the CBG that statistics must have the confidence of its users. However, there is no documented evidence of deliberate steps taken to achieve this goal insofar as balance of payments and monetary data are concerned.

Professionalism Professionalism of staff is ensured through recruitment of highly qualified staff, graduate training opportunities, and on-the-job training. However, ad hoc work assignments undermine deepening professionals skills in areas of specialty for monetary statistics. Transparency The CBG has recently strengthened its labor laws to promote ethical standards in an effort to foster staff integrity, objectivity, professional independence, and confidentiality in handling data. However, improvements in these areas could be enhanced by better sharing of information. Ethical standards The Code of Conduct enshrined in the service rules of the CBG provides broad ethical guidelines for the staff to maintain high ethical standards. The rules also specify the sanctions and penalties for noncompliance with these standards. New staff are informed about the Code of Conduct.

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Table 2c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 0 and 1—The Central Bank of The Gambia

0. Prerequisites of quality

1. Assurances of integrity

Legal and institutional environment Under the Central Bank of The Gambia Act (1992), and the Financial Institutions Act (2003), the CBG has the legal authority and responsibility for collecting, compiling, and disseminating monetary statistics. The CBG’s legal authority to compile balance of payments statistics extends only to financial data and does not cover data on real sector, such as merchandise trade and services. Resources Resources allocated for the collection, compilation, and dissemination of balance of payments and monetary statistics are substantially inadequate. Staff lack good functioning computers, modern statistical software, and necessary equipment to process, analyze, store, and transmit data more efficiently. The inefficient use of human resources and ad hoc assignments impede staff to develop the necessary skills for compiling balance of payments and monetary statistics. Relevance Feedback on the relevance and practicality of balance of payments and monetary statistics is not actively sought by compilers, except when received responding to specific data requests from users. Other quality management There is general understanding among the staff of the CBG that statistics must have the confidence of its users. However, there is no documented evidence of deliberate steps taken to achieve this goal insofar as balance of payments and monetary data are concerned.

Professionalism Professionalism of staff is ensured through recruitment of highly qualified staff, graduate training opportunities, and on-the-job training. However, ad hoc work assignments undermine deepening professionals skills in areas of specialty for monetary statistics. Transparency The CBG has recently strengthened its labor laws to promote ethical standards in an effort to foster staff integrity, objectivity, professional independence, and confidentiality in handling data. However, improvements in these areas could be enhanced by better sharing of information. Ethical standards The Code of Conduct enshrined in the service rules of the CBG provides broad ethical guidelines for the staff to maintain high ethical standards. The rules also specify the sanctions and penalties for noncompliance with these standards. New staff are informed about the Code of Conduct.

Table 3a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

Table 3a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The general framework for compiling the Gambian national accounts is the System of National Accounts 1968 (1968 SNA). Scope Currently, the national accounts only cover annual estimates for GDP measured from the production approach, at current and constant prices. The extremely poor quality of data collected on changes in inventories means that the figures for output actually represent sales. Some components of the expenditure approach are also compiled, but not household final consumption or changes in inventories. Classification/sectorization The production figures are classified according to the third revision of the International Standard Industrial Classification of all Economic Activities (ISIC). Basis for recording Market output is valued at factor cost and imports are recorded c.i.f, in line with the 1968 SNA. Market transactions are recorded on an accrual basis, but all central government figures are on a cash basis.	Source data Large enterprises are reasonably well covered in surveys, but small enterprises are poorly represented. Data for agriculture, central government, and utilities are reliably reported, but local government data are not available. Other activities use historical benchmarks extrapolated by population estimates. There is no producer price index, so the consumer price index has to be used instead. Assessment of source data Data for large enterprises and central government are routinely checked. Statistical techniques There is extensive use of historical grossing factors and value added to output ratios. Only a 12-industry breakdown is available. Constant price figures are derived directly from value added. The base year is 1976/77, which is very old. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs All possible data assessments are undertaken. Revision studies No revision study has ever been undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness The GDP estimates are produced annually and are first available within six to seven months after the end of the year. Consistency The GDP figures are internally consistent, but there is no independent expenditure measure to check against. They are also consistent over time back to 1996. The external trade data and central government figures are fully consistent with their source systems. Revision policy and practice Revisions tend to follow a regular pattern, and are indicated as such in the publications. There is no publicly available analysis of revisions.	Data accessibility Only a simple breakdown of the figures is published. The figures are published in the Annual Report of the CBG, but this has not been released for the last two years. The figures are not released to a preannounced schedule. Data are not made available to all users at the same time. Metadata accessibility The only published metadata relate to the GDDS and these have not been updated for some years. Assistance to users Contact points and details of available publications are not generally available.

View Table

Table 3a.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—National Accounts

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The general framework for compiling the Gambian national accounts is the System of National Accounts 1968 (1968 SNA). Scope Currently, the national accounts only cover annual estimates for GDP measured from the production approach, at current and constant prices. The extremely poor quality of data collected on changes in inventories means that the figures for output actually represent sales. Some components of the expenditure approach are also compiled, but not household final consumption or changes in inventories. Classification/sectorization The production figures are classified according to the third revision of the International Standard Industrial Classification of all Economic Activities (ISIC). Basis for recording Market output is valued at factor cost and imports are recorded c.i.f, in line with the 1968 SNA. Market transactions are recorded on an accrual basis, but all central government figures are on a cash basis.	Source data Large enterprises are reasonably well covered in surveys, but small enterprises are poorly represented. Data for agriculture, central government, and utilities are reliably reported, but local government data are not available. Other activities use historical benchmarks extrapolated by population estimates. There is no producer price index, so the consumer price index has to be used instead. Assessment of source data Data for large enterprises and central government are routinely checked. Statistical techniques There is extensive use of historical grossing factors and value added to output ratios. Only a 12-industry breakdown is available. Constant price figures are derived directly from value added. The base year is 1976/77, which is very old. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs All possible data assessments are undertaken. Revision studies No revision study has ever been undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness The GDP estimates are produced annually and are first available within six to seven months after the end of the year. Consistency The GDP figures are internally consistent, but there is no independent expenditure measure to check against. They are also consistent over time back to 1996. The external trade data and central government figures are fully consistent with their source systems. Revision policy and practice Revisions tend to follow a regular pattern, and are indicated as such in the publications. There is no publicly available analysis of revisions.	Data accessibility Only a simple breakdown of the figures is published. The figures are published in the Annual Report of the CBG, but this has not been released for the last two years. The figures are not released to a preannounced schedule. Data are not made available to all users at the same time. Metadata accessibility The only published metadata relate to the GDDS and these have not been updated for some years. Assistance to users Contact points and details of available publications are not generally available.

Table 3b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

Table 3b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Budget outturn data are mainly based on GFSM 1986. While the authorities may have considered the GFSM 2001 methodology, no migration path for implementing GFSM 2001 has been established. Scope Fiscal data disseminated in The Gambia do not include data on local governments. Thus, data on general government are not available. Classification/sectorization The underlying classifications and sectorization of transactions conform with those of GFSM 1986 and differences in aggregates can be resolved by reviewing bridging links between detailed national classifications with classifications in GFSM 1986. Basis for recording Consistent with GFSM 1986, recording by the Treasury, and in budget reporting, is done on a cash basis. Statistical reporting in the CBG Annual Report, as provided by DOSFEA compilers, is on the basis of modified accrual accounting.	Source data Source data are not adequate because of deficiencies in the accounting system. There is no evidence that the ongoing, or planned, accounting system is flexible enough to provide for new developments in needed sources, e.g., for a complete balance sheet, for accrual accounting, and for valuation changes. Assessment of source data The accuracy of annual data is not routinely assessed. Out-of-trend values and data inconsistencies, when observed, are questioned. Statistical techniques Data compilation procedures are currently limited to manual manipulations of data on spreadsheets. Compilation procedures are not documented. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs No checks for differences between net borrowing and changes in outstanding debt over the same period or checks with foreigners on external borrowing or grants. No evidence of reconciliation with statistics in other sectors. Revision studies Revised data only apply to preliminary data. The absence of final audited data severely limits the scope of revised data. No revision studies are undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness Annual data, but not quarterly data, on central government transactions are disseminated to the public. These annual data are available after about 14 months. No general government data are disseminated. Domestic and foreign debt totals of the central government, while compiled monthly, are only available to the general public once a year. Consistency The sum of components of data series is found to equal totals of the series, but automated procedures ensuring consistency is not evident. Revision policy and practice There is no revision cycle for disseminated provisional data, as budget reports only have one year of outturn data for cash transactions and revised data have not been reported in recent years (since 1991).	Data accessibility While fiscal transaction data disseminated with the budget by the DOSFEA roughly match that in GFSM 1986, the presentations of these data are not the same as in GFSM 1986 or GFSM 2001. No fiscal data are accessed through an electronic database maintained by or on behalf of DOSFEA. Metadata accessibility No documentation on concepts, practices, and procedures document is published. General use information such as brochures about fiscal data is not made available to the public. Assistance to users Only limited support is made available for data users. The annual budget report and the CBG annual report do not identify contact points for queries. Materials to encourage awareness of fiscal data are not made available. No catalogs of publications, documents, and other services are made available to data users.

View Table

Table 3b.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Government Finance Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Budget outturn data are mainly based on GFSM 1986. While the authorities may have considered the GFSM 2001 methodology, no migration path for implementing GFSM 2001 has been established. Scope Fiscal data disseminated in The Gambia do not include data on local governments. Thus, data on general government are not available. Classification/sectorization The underlying classifications and sectorization of transactions conform with those of GFSM 1986 and differences in aggregates can be resolved by reviewing bridging links between detailed national classifications with classifications in GFSM 1986. Basis for recording Consistent with GFSM 1986, recording by the Treasury, and in budget reporting, is done on a cash basis. Statistical reporting in the CBG Annual Report, as provided by DOSFEA compilers, is on the basis of modified accrual accounting.	Source data Source data are not adequate because of deficiencies in the accounting system. There is no evidence that the ongoing, or planned, accounting system is flexible enough to provide for new developments in needed sources, e.g., for a complete balance sheet, for accrual accounting, and for valuation changes. Assessment of source data The accuracy of annual data is not routinely assessed. Out-of-trend values and data inconsistencies, when observed, are questioned. Statistical techniques Data compilation procedures are currently limited to manual manipulations of data on spreadsheets. Compilation procedures are not documented. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs No checks for differences between net borrowing and changes in outstanding debt over the same period or checks with foreigners on external borrowing or grants. No evidence of reconciliation with statistics in other sectors. Revision studies Revised data only apply to preliminary data. The absence of final audited data severely limits the scope of revised data. No revision studies are undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness Annual data, but not quarterly data, on central government transactions are disseminated to the public. These annual data are available after about 14 months. No general government data are disseminated. Domestic and foreign debt totals of the central government, while compiled monthly, are only available to the general public once a year. Consistency The sum of components of data series is found to equal totals of the series, but automated procedures ensuring consistency is not evident. Revision policy and practice There is no revision cycle for disseminated provisional data, as budget reports only have one year of outturn data for cash transactions and revised data have not been reported in recent years (since 1991).	Data accessibility While fiscal transaction data disseminated with the budget by the DOSFEA roughly match that in GFSM 1986, the presentations of these data are not the same as in GFSM 1986 or GFSM 2001. No fiscal data are accessed through an electronic database maintained by or on behalf of DOSFEA. Metadata accessibility No documentation on concepts, practices, and procedures document is published. General use information such as brochures about fiscal data is not made available to the public. Assistance to users Only limited support is made available for data users. The annual budget report and the CBG annual report do not identify contact points for queries. Materials to encourage awareness of fiscal data are not made available. No catalogs of publications, documents, and other services are made available to data users.

Table 3c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

Table 3c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Concepts and definitions follow the 1984 Monetary Statistics Guide. Scope The scope of the summary accounts of the CBG is in line with the 1984 Guide. However, the Other Depository Corporations Survey excludes all financial institutions that accept deposits or issue deposit substitutes, such as the post office savings bank, village savings and credit associations, and credit unions. Classification/sectorization For the CBG, the principles applied in monetary statistics are broadly in line with the 1984 Guide. Further, the accounts of commercial banks do not provide adequate information to facilitate proper sectorization and classification. Basis for recording The basis for recording of CBG accounts is in accordance with the 1984 Guide, but there are deviations with regard to commercial banks’ accounts and the IMF accounts which are not updated on a regular basis.	Source data The main sources of information for compiling monetary statistics are the monthly CBG trial balance and monthly reports on commercial banks, submitted in hard copy. The commercial banks’ information is insufficient to permit proper sectorization/classification of accounts. Assessment of source data The accuracy of the data from commercial banks is routinely studied by the Financial Supervision Department/Money and Credit Unit (MCU) for underreporting/misreporting, but the same scrutiny is not applied to CBG accounts. Statistical techniques The CBG applies the principles of aggregation, consolidation, and netting in line with the 1984 Guide, but the manual entry of commercial banks’ data increases the risk of errors. Moreover, no seasonal adjustments are carried out. Assessment and validation of intermediate data Occasionally, the MCU performs some cross-checking. There are insufficient mechanisms for validating intermediate data against other secondary sources. Revision studies In general, revisions tend to be small in magnitude. Occasionally, the CBG conducts investigations to evaluate the sources of the problems, arising from erroneous sectorization, classification, or lack of data from commercial banks.	Periodicity and timeliness The periodicity and timeliness of monetary statistics currently do not meet the GDDS recommendations because of delays in publishing the quarterly economic bulletin. The GDDS recommendations could be exceeded if weekly data are made available on the CBG website. Consistency In general, the monetary statistics are consistent within the dataset. However, the data are not always reconcilable with other datasets. For example, there has been no reconciliation of monetary data with fiscal data. Revision policy and practice There is no predetermined, well-established revision cycle for the monetary accounts, but occasionally revisions are explained in quarterly bulletins and the annual report.	Data accessibility The statistical tables published in the CBG website, which present the information of the CBG and the accounts of commercial banks in a balance sheet format, are presented in a way that facilitates proper interpretation. Data are released on an ad hoc basis, depending on the delivery of quarterly bulletin and annual report publications. Metadata accessibility Documentation is published in The Gambia’s GDDS metadata on the IMF website (DSBB). In general, no comprehensive documentation meets the various needs of different users. Assistance to users Knowledgeable service and support from the MCU on monetary statistics are available to users. The publications of monetary data on the CBG website do not contain contact points for the public, such as telephone, fax, and e-mail addresses.

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Table 3c.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Monetary Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions Concepts and definitions follow the 1984 Monetary Statistics Guide. Scope The scope of the summary accounts of the CBG is in line with the 1984 Guide. However, the Other Depository Corporations Survey excludes all financial institutions that accept deposits or issue deposit substitutes, such as the post office savings bank, village savings and credit associations, and credit unions. Classification/sectorization For the CBG, the principles applied in monetary statistics are broadly in line with the 1984 Guide. Further, the accounts of commercial banks do not provide adequate information to facilitate proper sectorization and classification. Basis for recording The basis for recording of CBG accounts is in accordance with the 1984 Guide, but there are deviations with regard to commercial banks’ accounts and the IMF accounts which are not updated on a regular basis.	Source data The main sources of information for compiling monetary statistics are the monthly CBG trial balance and monthly reports on commercial banks, submitted in hard copy. The commercial banks’ information is insufficient to permit proper sectorization/classification of accounts. Assessment of source data The accuracy of the data from commercial banks is routinely studied by the Financial Supervision Department/Money and Credit Unit (MCU) for underreporting/misreporting, but the same scrutiny is not applied to CBG accounts. Statistical techniques The CBG applies the principles of aggregation, consolidation, and netting in line with the 1984 Guide, but the manual entry of commercial banks’ data increases the risk of errors. Moreover, no seasonal adjustments are carried out. Assessment and validation of intermediate data Occasionally, the MCU performs some cross-checking. There are insufficient mechanisms for validating intermediate data against other secondary sources. Revision studies In general, revisions tend to be small in magnitude. Occasionally, the CBG conducts investigations to evaluate the sources of the problems, arising from erroneous sectorization, classification, or lack of data from commercial banks.	Periodicity and timeliness The periodicity and timeliness of monetary statistics currently do not meet the GDDS recommendations because of delays in publishing the quarterly economic bulletin. The GDDS recommendations could be exceeded if weekly data are made available on the CBG website. Consistency In general, the monetary statistics are consistent within the dataset. However, the data are not always reconcilable with other datasets. For example, there has been no reconciliation of monetary data with fiscal data. Revision policy and practice There is no predetermined, well-established revision cycle for the monetary accounts, but occasionally revisions are explained in quarterly bulletins and the annual report.	Data accessibility The statistical tables published in the CBG website, which present the information of the CBG and the accounts of commercial banks in a balance sheet format, are presented in a way that facilitates proper interpretation. Data are released on an ad hoc basis, depending on the delivery of quarterly bulletin and annual report publications. Metadata accessibility Documentation is published in The Gambia’s GDDS metadata on the IMF website (DSBB). In general, no comprehensive documentation meets the various needs of different users. Assistance to users Knowledgeable service and support from the MCU on monetary statistics are available to users. The publications of monetary data on the CBG website do not contain contact points for the public, such as telephone, fax, and e-mail addresses.

Table 3d.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

Table 3d.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The structure of the balance of payments statement presented during the mission was not consistent with the recommendations in BPM5. Scope The scope and coverage of data are incomplete in many areas. Goods for processing, a sizeable amount of re-exports, and private transfers are not included. Classification/sectorization The classification of the balance of payments for The Gambia shows some significant deviations from the aggregates presented in BPM5. Basis for recording The valuation principle is largely in line with the market price valuation principle. The balance of payments statistics are generally recorded on a cash basis.	Source data The primary data sources used to compile the balance of payments statistics for The Gambia have significant deficiencies. Assessment of source data The source data are not routinely assessed to ensure adequate coverage, as well as to identify ways in which the data sources could be improved to address underlying problems. Statistical techniques The data compilation techniques used by the CBG to compile the balance of payments statistics are largely inadequate. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The size of short-term capital flows, which include errors and omissions, is reportedly closely monitored and, when the figures are unexpected, they are reviewed by staff. Revision studies No formal revision studies have yet been undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness The balance of payments statistics are compiled on an annual basis and published both in the CBG Annual Report and the Quarterly Bulletin, in line with the recommendations of the GDDS. However, technical problems have held up the publications of the CBG documents since 2002. Consistency Overall, the statistics are consistent within the datasets. Balance of payments statistics are fully scrutinized for consistency by senior managers of the Economic Research Department (ERD) before they are cleared for publication. Revision policy and practice Revisions of balance of payments statistics do not have an established schedule, although revised data are explicitly identified in the published statistics.	Data accessibility The presentation of balance of payments statistics disseminated to the public by the ERD does not facilitate proper interpretation. Metadata accessibility Documentation of the methods used for compiling balance of payments statistics is not publicly available. Assistance to users A specific contact person within the balance of payments area is not identified.

View Table

Table 3d.

The Gambia: Assessment of Data Quality—Dimensions 2 to 5—Balance of Payments Statistics

2. Methodological soundness	3. Accuracy and reliability	4. Serviceability	5. Accessibility
Concepts and definitions The structure of the balance of payments statement presented during the mission was not consistent with the recommendations in BPM5. Scope The scope and coverage of data are incomplete in many areas. Goods for processing, a sizeable amount of re-exports, and private transfers are not included. Classification/sectorization The classification of the balance of payments for The Gambia shows some significant deviations from the aggregates presented in BPM5. Basis for recording The valuation principle is largely in line with the market price valuation principle. The balance of payments statistics are generally recorded on a cash basis.	Source data The primary data sources used to compile the balance of payments statistics for The Gambia have significant deficiencies. Assessment of source data The source data are not routinely assessed to ensure adequate coverage, as well as to identify ways in which the data sources could be improved to address underlying problems. Statistical techniques The data compilation techniques used by the CBG to compile the balance of payments statistics are largely inadequate. Assessment and validation of intermediate data and statistical outputs The size of short-term capital flows, which include errors and omissions, is reportedly closely monitored and, when the figures are unexpected, they are reviewed by staff. Revision studies No formal revision studies have yet been undertaken.	Periodicity and timeliness The balance of payments statistics are compiled on an annual basis and published both in the CBG Annual Report and the Quarterly Bulletin, in line with the recommendations of the GDDS. However, technical problems have held up the publications of the CBG documents since 2002. Consistency Overall, the statistics are consistent within the datasets. Balance of payments statistics are fully scrutinized for consistency by senior managers of the Economic Research Department (ERD) before they are cleared for publication. Revision policy and practice Revisions of balance of payments statistics do not have an established schedule, although revised data are explicitly identified in the published statistics.	Data accessibility The presentation of balance of payments statistics disseminated to the public by the ERD does not facilitate proper interpretation. Metadata accessibility Documentation of the methods used for compiling balance of payments statistics is not publicly available. Assistance to users A specific contact person within the balance of payments area is not identified.

III. Staff’s Recommendations

11. Based on the review of The Gambia’s statistical practices, discussions with the data-producing agencies, and responses from data users (see Appendix III of the Detailed Assessments volume), the mission has a set of recommendations. They are designed to encourage further The Gambia’s adherence to internationally accepted statistical practices and would, in the mission’s view, enhance the analytical usefulness of The Gambia’s statistics. Additional technical suggestions are included in the Detailed Assessments volume.