The Integrated Household Survey (IHS) 2015 provided data for the measurement of the economic well-being of the population. The data has a valuable input in the CPI and national accounts and remains valuable in the proper construct CPI. Data from the survey constituted one of the two basic types of data needed to update the weighting pattern of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) to ensure it adequately reflected the spending habits of the Gambian population which is reflective of the seasonal nature of household expenditure. The IHS is the ideal large-sample Household Expenditure survey, which is more appropriate to provide regional breakdown compared to the weaker outlet-type breakdowns This survey was important because it provided The Gambia Government with comprehensive information on the socioeconomic status of the population and to enable government to monitor the determinants of poverty and its dynamics. Information from the IHS can be used to assess the current levels of differences among population and to evaluate basic household needs in key sectors such as drinking water, energy, schooling, health facilities, sanitation, employment and other sectors. The specific objectives of the survey are: 1. To provide a database that allows for end time analysis of national level government policies embedded within the PAGE. 2. To understand the poverty dynamics across the country and factors influencing them. 3. To obtain in depth understanding on the living standards of households to livelihood strategies and measures of income diversification. 4. To get information on household expenditure patterns to update the National Accounts. 5. To obtain a new set of weights for the basket of goods and services that allow for upgrading the Consumer Price Index (CPI). 6. To build capacity and development of sustainable systems to produce accurate and timely information on households in The Gambia. 7. Some training activities are envisaged under this project such as a STATA workshop, household survey design and management, and study tours for poverty analysis.
