Ministry of Defence-The Gambia

23/07/2026

‎MINISTRY OF DEFENCE SUCCESSFULLY CONCLUDES UNSCR 1540 (2004) IMPLEMENTATION WORKSHOP
‎
‎Banjul, 23 July 2026. The Ministry of Defence, in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and with financial support from the European Union, has successfully concluded a two-day national workshop on Strengthening National Sensitisation and Institutional Coordination for the Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1540 (2004) at the Kairaba Beach Hotel.
‎
‎The workshop brought together representatives of key stakeholder institutions, regulatory authorities, academia, civil society organisations, and international partners to strengthen national coordination and institutional capacity for the effective implementation of UNSCR 1540 (2004).
‎
‎Through expert presentations, interactive discussions, and group exercises, participants reviewed The Gambia's progress in implementing the Resolution, assessed existing gaps and challenges, and developed practical recommendations to reinforce national measures aimed at preventing the proliferation of nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons, as well as their means of delivery, to non-State actors.
‎
‎Delivering the closing remarks on behalf of the Minister of Defence, Commander Adama Trawally commended participants for their active engagement and reaffirmed the Government of The Gambia's unwavering commitment to fulfilling its obligations under UNSCR 1540 (2004). He underscored that the implementation of the Resolution remains a national security priority, requiring sustained inter-agency cooperation, effective institutional coordination, and continued investment in national capacity. He noted that the knowledge and recommendations generated during the workshop would serve as a valuable roadmap for strengthening The Gambia's national non-proliferation framework and enhancing the country's resilience against emerging security threats.
‎
‎Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Director and Deputy to the United Nations High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Dr. Adedeji Ebo, commended The Gambia for demonstrating strong political commitment towards implementing UNSCR 1540 (2004). He highlighted that effective implementation of the Resolution extends beyond compliance with international obligations and constitutes a strategic investment in national, regional, and global security. Dr. Ebo encouraged all relevant institutions to maintain the momentum generated by the workshop by strengthening institutional coordination, enhancing information sharing, and translating the agreed recommendations into concrete actions. He reaffirmed UNODA's continued commitment to supporting The Gambia through technical assistance, capacity-building initiatives, and sustained partnership.
‎
‎The United Nations Resident Coordinator in The Gambia, Mr. Karl Frederick Paul, praised the collaborative efforts of the Government, UNODA, the European Union, and all participating institutions in advancing The Gambia's non-proliferation agenda. He emphasized that addressing contemporary security challenges requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach, anchored on strong institutions, effective partnerships, and national ownership. He reaffirmed the United Nations' commitment to supporting The Gambia in strengthening its security architecture and promoting sustainable peace and development.
‎
‎Participants concluded the workshop by reaffirming the importance of sustained inter-agency collaboration, continuous capacity building, enhanced public awareness, and stronger cooperation with regional and international partners to ensure the effective implementation of UNSCR 1540 (2004). They also called for the development of a coordinated national implementation roadmap to guide future actions and sustain progress made during the workshop.
‎
‎The Ministry of Defence expresses its profound appreciation to the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA), the European Union, all facilitators, resource persons, and participants for their invaluable support and active engagement, which contributed significantly to the success of the workshop.
‎
‎The Ministry remains committed to translating the workshop's outcomes and recommendations into concrete actions that will further strengthen The Gambia's national security architecture, reinforce its non-proliferation regime, and contribute to regional and international peace, security, and stability.

22/07/2026

‎MINISTER OF DEFENCE PRESIDES OVER TWO-DAY NATIONAL WORKSHOP ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 1540 (2004)
‎
‎Banjul, 22 July 2026 – The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today presided over the opening ceremony of a two-day national workshop on Strengthening National Engagement and Institutional Coordination for the Implementation of United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1540 (2004) in The Gambia, at Kairaba beach hotel.
‎
‎The opening ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, the Chief of Defence Staff of The Gambia Armed Forces, Major General Ousman Gomez; representatives of key national institutions; members of the diplomatic corps; officials of the United Nations system; development partners; and technical experts.
‎
‎Organized by the Ministry of Defence in collaboration with the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs (UNODA) and funded by the European Union, the workshop seeks to strengthen national engagement, institutional coordination, and technical capacity for the effective implementation of UNSCR 1540 (2004).
‎
‎United Nations Security Council
‎ Resolution 1540 (2004) establishes the international legal framework for preventing non-state actors from acquiring, developing, manufacturing, possessing, transporting, transferring, or using nuclear, chemical, and biological weapons and their means of delivery. The resolution calls upon all Member States to adopt effective legal, regulatory, and institutional measures to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction while promoting cooperation among national authorities responsible for security, customs, border management, law enforcement, public health, and related sectors.
‎
‎Officially opening the workshop, Honourable Minister Joof reaffirmed The Gambia's commitment to strengthening national resilience against emerging security threats through enhanced institutional coordination and international cooperation.
‎"The Gambia remains firmly committed to strengthening both national and international cooperation to address evolving security challenges," the Minister stated. "This workshop provides an important platform to reinforce coordination among our national institutions while deepening collaboration with our international partners to enhance our collective capacity to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1540 effectively."
‎
‎The Minister emphasized that although The Gambia faces no immediate threat from weapons of mass destruction, the Government recognizes its responsibility to uphold international peace and security by implementing global non-proliferation obligations. He stressed that effective implementation of the resolution requires a whole-of-government approach, supported by strong institutions, appropriate legislation, and sustained partnerships with international partners.
‎
‎Delivering his remarks, Dr. Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the United Nations High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, commended The Gambia for its continued commitment to advancing the implementation of UNSCR 1540 (2004). He described the workshop as a timely initiative that demonstrates the country's resolve to strengthen its national framework against the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
‎
‎Dr. Ebo noted that effective implementation of the resolution depends on strong national ownership, sustained political commitment, and close collaboration among government institutions and international partners. He reaffirmed UNODA's commitment to supporting The Gambia through technical assistance, capacity-building, and the sharing of international best practices to strengthen national implementation efforts.
‎
‎Also addressing the gathering, Her Excellency Immaculada Roca i Cortés, Ambassador and Head of the European Union Delegation to The Gambia, reaffirmed the European Union's commitment to supporting global peace, security, and non-proliferation initiatives. She underscored the importance of strengthening national institutions to effectively prevent the spread of weapons of mass destruction and related materials.
‎
‎The Ambassador highlighted that the European Union's support for the workshop reflects its long-standing partnership with The Gambia in promoting peace, security, good governance, and the rule of law. She expressed confidence that the knowledge and recommendations generated during the workshop would contribute significantly to strengthening national coordination and enhancing The Gambia's capacity to implement its international obligations under UNSCR 1540.
‎
‎Over the course of the two-day workshop, participants will review The Gambia's progress in implementing the resolution, assess existing legislative and institutional frameworks, identify capacity gaps, and develop practical recommendations to strengthen national coordination, technical capacity, and inter-agency cooperation.

30/06/2026

‎PRESIDENT BARROW CONFIRMS NEW GAF HIGH COMMAND APPOINTMENTS
‎
‎Banjul, 30 June 2026 – The President of the Republic of The Gambia and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Adama Barrow, acting in accordance with Section 190 (1A) of the 1997 Constitution, has confirmed a new set of senior leadership appointments within The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), reinforcing the military's command structure as it continues to fulfil its constitutional mandate of safeguarding the country's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national security.
‎
‎Among the appointments, Major General Ousman Gomez, formerly the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, has been confirmed as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), succeeding Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, who resigned in May this year. As the nation's highest-ranking military officer, Major General Gomez will provide strategic leadership and oversight of the operational readiness, administration, and overall command of The Gambia Armed Forces.
‎
‎Also confirmed is Brigadier General Sait Njie, formerly Commander of the Gambia National Army (GNA), as the new Deputy Chief of Defence Staff. In his new role, Brigadier General Njie will support the Chief of Defence Staff in the ex*****on of command responsibilities while contributing to the operational effectiveness, institutional development, and professionalism of the Armed Forces.
‎
‎The President has further confirmed Brigadier General Yaya Drammeh, formerly Commander of the Republican National Guards (RNG), as the new Army Commander. He will be responsible for the command, training, and operational preparedness of the Army, ensuring it remains capable of responding effectively to evolving national security challenges and operational requirements.
‎
‎In another key appointment, Colonel Alagie Sanneh has been recalled from his assignment as Defence Attaché at The Gambia's Permanent Mission to the United Nations and appointed Commander of the Republican National Guards. The Republican National Guards play a critical role in protecting the Presidency and other strategic national assets while contributing to the country's broader security architecture.
‎
‎The appointments reflect President Barrow's continued confidence in the competence, professionalism, and leadership of the newly appointed officers. They also underscore the Government's commitment to strengthening the command structure of The Gambia Armed Forces as part of ongoing security sector reforms aimed at building a modern, disciplined, and mission-ready military.
‎
‎The Ministry of Defence congratulates the newly appointed senior officers and wishes them every success as they assume their new responsibilities in service to the nation.
‎
‎The Ministry remains confident that their extensive experience, unwavering dedication, and commitment to duty will further strengthen the operational effectiveness and professionalism of The Gambia Armed Forces in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities.

26/06/2026

26/06/2026

‎MINISTER OF DEFENCE JOINS GAF WALK FOR HEALTH ALONGSIDE MINISTERS OF JUSTICE AND FOREIGN AFFAIRS
‎
‎Banjul, 26 June 2026 – The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today joined personnel of The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), led by the Acting Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Ousman Gomez in the GAF Walk for Health, reaffirming the Ministry's commitment to promoting physical fitness, healthy living, and unity within the security sector.
‎
‎Organised by The Gambia Armed Forces, the event brought together senior military officers, officers and soldiers, civilian staff of the Ministry of Defence, and other stakeholders in a collective demonstration of commitment to health and wellness. The Minister of Defence was accompanied by the Honourable Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Dawda A Jallow, as well as the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, Sering Modou Njie, underscoring the importance of inter-ministerial collaboration in advancing national well-being.
‎
‎Speaking after the event, the Minister of Defence commended the leadership of The Gambia Armed Forces for organising the initiative, describing the Walk for Health as a commendable programme that promotes regular physical exercise, strengthens teamwork, and encourages healthy lifestyles among members of the Armed Forces and the wider public.
‎
‎He emphasised that maintaining physical fitness is essential to operational readiness and effective service delivery, adding that initiatives such as the Walk for Health also foster discipline, camaraderie, and stronger partnerships across government institutions.
‎
‎The Walk for Health forms part of GAF's broader efforts to promote fitness, resilience, and overall well-being while reinforcing the Armed Forces' commitment to national development beyond its core defence mandate.
‎
‎The route commenced at the Ministry of Defence, proceeded along Bond Road to the Banjul Port area, continued onto Independence Drive, and concluded at the Ministry of Defence.
‎
‎The Ministry of Defence commends The Gambia Armed Forces for this important initiative and encourages the continued organisation of programmes that promote healthy living, strengthen institutional cohesion, and contribute to national unity. More Ministers are expected to join the exercise at the end of July Walk for Health.

26/06/2026

‎LIEUTENANT COMMANDER YUSUPHA SANNEH REPRESENTS THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE AT THE 7TH CONFERENCE OF STATES PARTIES TO THE TREATY ON THE PROHIBITION OF NUCLEAR WEAPONS IN ADDIS ABABA, ETHIOPIA
‎
‎Banjul, 26 June 2026 – The Liaison Officer at the Ministry of Defence, Lieutenant Commander Yusupha Sanneh, is representing the Ministry of Defence, on behalf of the Government of The Gambia, at the 7th Conference of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), currently taking place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
‎
‎The high-level conference has brought together representatives of States Parties, diplomats, international organizations, subject-matter experts, and civil society organizations from around the world to review progress in the implementation of the Treaty and discuss strategies for advancing global nuclear disarmament.
‎
‎Representing The Gambia, Lieutenant Commander Sanneh is participating in key deliberations focused on strengthening international cooperation, enhancing compliance with the Treaty, and addressing emerging challenges relating to nuclear weapons and international security. The conference also provides an important platform for participating States to reaffirm their commitment to the total elimination of nuclear weapons and to identify practical measures towards building a safer and more secure world.
‎
‎The Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons, which entered into force in January 2021, is the first legally binding international agreement to comprehensively prohibit nuclear weapons. It prohibits the development, testing, production, acquisition, possession, stockpiling, transfer, use, and threat of use of nuclear weapons, while promoting international cooperation in advancing nuclear disarmament.
‎
‎The Gambia's participation in the conference reaffirms the country's steadfast commitment to multilateralism, international peace and security, and global disarmament efforts. It also reflects the Ministry of Defence's continued support for international initiatives aimed at reducing threats to global stability and strengthening the rules-based international order.
‎
‎The outcomes of the conference are expected to contribute meaningfully to ongoing international efforts to advance nuclear disarmament and reinforce the collective pursuit of a world free of nuclear weapons.

01/06/2026

MAJOR GENERAL OUSMAN GOMEZ PAYS COURTESY CALL ON DEFENCE MINISTER FOLLOWING ASSUMPTION OF DUTIES AS ACTING CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF
‎
‎Banjul, 1 June 2026 – Major General Ousman Gomez today paid a courtesy call on the Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, following his assumption of duties as Acting Chief of Defence Staff of The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF).
‎
‎The visit marked Major General Gomez's first official engagement with the Defence Minister since taking over the responsibilities of Chief of Defence Staff in an acting capacity following the resignation of his predecessor.
‎
‎During the meeting, the new acting CDS expressed his appreciation to the Government and the High Command of The Gambia Armed Forces for the confidence reposed in him to lead the Armed Forces during this important period. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining the professionalism, discipline, and operational effectiveness of the military while advancing the institution's mandate of safeguarding the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of The Gambia.
‎
‎For his part, Honourable Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof congratulated Major General Gomez on his assumption of duties and assured him of the Ministry's continued support in the discharge of his responsibilities. The Minister emphasized the critical role of the Armed Forces in preserving national peace and security and encouraged the Acting Chief of Defence Staff to continue fostering unity, professionalism, and excellence across all branches of the service.
‎
‎Honourable Joof further commended the leadership of The Gambia Armed Forces for its steadfast commitment to constitutional governance, national development, and regional peace and security initiatives. He expressed confidence in Major General Gomez's ability to provide effective leadership and guide the Armed Forces in fulfilling its constitutional mandate.
‎
‎The courtesy call which concluded with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to strengthening collaboration between the Ministry of Defence and The Gambia Armed Forces in pursuit of national security objectives and institutional development, was also attended by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Abdoulie M I Kah, and the Military Assistant to the Minister, Commander Adama Trawalley.
‎
‎Major General Gomez officially assumed duties as Acting Chief of Defence Staff following the resignation of his predecessor, ushering in a new chapter in the leadership of The Gambia Armed Forces.

27/05/2026

EID AL-ADHA (TOBASKI) MESSAGE FROM THE HONOURABLE MINISTER OF DEFENCE
‎
‎On the joyous and sacred occasion of Eid al-Adha, popularly known as Tobaski, I extend warm greetings and best wishes to all Muslims across The Gambia and beyond.
‎
‎Eid al-Adha is a profound reminder of the virtues of faith, sacrifice, obedience, compassion, and gratitude. It is a time for reflection, generosity, and renewed commitment to the values that strengthen our families, communities, and nation.
‎
‎As we commemorate this important Islamic festival, let us continue to uphold the spirit of unity, tolerance, peace, and national solidarity. These principles remain essential to our collective aspiration for a secure, stable, and prosperous nation.
‎
‎I wish to pay special tribute to the staff of the Ministry of Defence, the gallant men and women of The Gambia Armed Forces, and all sister security services who continue to serve our country with unwavering dedication, professionalism, and patriotism. Your sacrifices, particularly during festive periods when many are away from their families in service to the nation, are deeply appreciated and truly embody the spirit of Eid al-Adha.
‎
‎As you celebrate with family, friends, and loved ones, I urge everyone to do so in peace, moderation, and mutual respect, while extending kindness and support to the less privileged in our communities.
‎May Almighty Allah accept our prayers, sacrifices, and good deeds, and continue to bless The Gambia with enduring peace, unity, and progress.
‎
‎Eid Mubarak.

15/05/2026

MINISTER JOOF ADDRESSES SENBATT 9 MEDAL DECORATION CEREMONY PARADE
‎
‎Banjul, 15 May 2026. The Honorable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today addressed the gallant men and women of SENBATT 9 in recognition of their distinguished service under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG).
‎
‎The medal decoration ceremony parade, held at the Senegalese Battalion base in Kanfenda, Foni Kansala, was presided over by the ECOWAS Special Representative and Head of Mission in The Gambia, Her Excellency Madam Lily French. Also in attendance were the Senegalese Ambassador to The Gambia, Her Excellency Madam Mariam Sy; the ECOMIG Force Commander, Colonel Aliun Tin; the Governor of the West Coast Region, Mr. Ousman Bojang; senior government officials; members of the diplomatic corps; security chiefs; and community representatives from across the West Coast Region.
‎
‎Minister Joof attended the ceremony alongside the Minister of Interior, Honorable Abdoulie Sanyang; the National Security Adviser, Mr. Abubacarr Sulayman Geng; and the Commander of the Republican National Guard (RNG), Brigadier General Yaya Drammeh.
‎
‎Addressing the parade, Minister Joof conveyed profound appreciation on behalf of the Government and people of The Gambia to the officers and soldiers of SENBATT 9 for their professionalism, discipline, and unwavering commitment to the maintenance of peace, security, and stability in The Gambia and the wider West African region.
‎
‎He paid special tribute to ECOWAS for its visionary leadership, diplomatic engagement, and principled commitment to regional peace and constitutional order, which continue to serve as pillars of stability within the sub-region. The Minister noted that ECOWAS has consistently demonstrated the political courage and institutional credibility required to safeguard constitutional legitimacy, mediate conflicts, and preserve regional stability.
‎
‎The Defence Minister also commended the strong partnership and longstanding bilateral relations between The Gambia and the Republic of Senegal, describing the cooperation between the two sisterly nations as exemplary and mutually beneficial. He further acknowledged the sacrifices made by the men and women serving under ECOMIG and praised their dedication to regional peace and collective security.
‎
‎Minister Joof reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to continued collaboration with ECOWAS and all stakeholders in promoting peace, stability, and security within the sub-region. He emphasized that regional solidarity and cooperation remain essential in addressing the emerging security challenges confronting West Africa.
‎
‎For her part, the ECOWAS Special Representative and Head of Mission in The Gambia, Her Excellency Madam Lily French, congratulated members of SENBATT 9 on the successful completion of another phase of their mission and thanked them for their professionalism and dedicated service. She reiterated ECOWAS’ commitment to supporting The Gambia’s peacebuilding and democratic consolidation process.
‎
‎The medal decoration ceremony formed part of efforts to honour and recognize the exceptional service, dedication, and commitment of officers and soldiers serving under the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia. The event featured military drills, ceremonial displays, and the official presentation of medals to deserving personnel of SENBATT 9, and concluded with a photo session and cocktail reception.

12/05/2026

PICTORIAL HIGHLIGHTS OF THE DEFENCE MINISTER'S MEETING WITH HUAWEI OFFICIALS AT THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE