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Ministry of Defence-The Gambia, NO. 4 MARINA Parade BANJUL, Banjul (2026)

01/06/2026

MAJOR GENERAL OUSMAN GOMEZ PAYS COURTESY CALL ON DEFENCE MINISTER FOLLOWING ASSUMPTION OF DUTIES AS ACTING CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF
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‎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).
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎Eid Mubarak.

15/05/2026

MINISTER JOOF ADDRESSES SENBATT 9 MEDAL DECORATION CEREMONY PARADE
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‎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).
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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.
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‎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

07/05/2026

MINISTER JOOF JOINS MOURNERS TO PAY FINAL RESPECTS TO LATE LIEUTENANT COLONEL MAM MATARR SECKA
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‎Banjul, 7 May 2026. In the company of the Honorable Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mr. Abdou Jobe; the National Security Adviser, Mr. Abubacarr Sulayman Geng; the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Ousman Gomez; Service Chiefs; Principal Staff Officers; Staff Officers; as well as soldiers and ratings of The Gambia Armed Forces, the Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, yesterday joined family members, relatives, friends, and hundreds of mourners to pay final respects to the late Lieutenant Colonel Mam Matarr Secka at Kololi cemetery where he was laid to rest.
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‎The solemn gathering brought together senior government officials, members of the security services, and sympathisers from different walks of life, all united in mourning the passing of a distinguished military officer whose service and dedication to the nation will be remembered for years to come.
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‎Delivering his condolence message on behalf of the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of The Gambia Armed Forces, His Excellency Adama Barrow; the Ministry of Defence; and the entire Gambia Armed Forces, Honourable Joof expressed profound and heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, relatives, friends, and colleagues of the late Lieutenant Colonel Secka.
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‎Speaking in a crowded mosque during the funeral prayers, the Minister described the passing of Lieutenant Colonel Secka as a great loss not only to his family and loved ones, but also to the nation as a whole, particularly The Gambia Armed Forces, where he served with honour, loyalty, and professionalism. He noted that the late officer distinguished himself through his commitment to duty, discipline, and patriotism throughout his years of service to the country.
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‎Honourable Joof further prayed for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness upon the departed soul and urged the bereaved family to remain steadfast and take solace in the exemplary life and legacy left behind by the late Lieutenant Colonel Secka. He also prayed that Allah grants him Al-Jannah Firdaus and gives the family the strength and courage to bear this irreparable loss.
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‎The late Lieutenant Colonel Mam Matarr Secka was laid to rest shortly after the funeral prayers in accordance with Islamic rites and the Military Tradition.

06/05/2026

CONDOLENCE MESSAGE
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‎Banjul, 6 May 2026. The Honourable Minister of Defence, on behalf of the management and staff of the Ministry of Defence, extends profound condolences to the Office of the President, the High Command, officers, soldiers, and civilian staff of the The Gambia Armed Forces on the passing of Lieutenant Colonel Mam Matarr Secka.
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‎Lieutenant Colonel Secka served the nation with dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to duty. His contribution to the peace, security, and development of our country will be remembered with deep respect and gratitude.
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‎This loss is not only a great bereavement to his family and loved ones, but also to the nation and the entire defence and security fraternity. At this difficult moment, the Ministry of Defence stands in solidarity with the Office of the President and the The Gambia Armed Forces as we mourn the passing of a patriotic officer whose service to the Republic was exemplary.
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‎The Honourable Minister and the entire Ministry pray that the Almighty Allah grants Lieutenant Colonel Secka eternal rest and gives his family, colleagues, and the nation the strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.
‎May his soul rest in perfect peace

04/05/2026

MINISTER JOOF CONGRATULATES THE GAMBIA ARMED FORCES ON VICTORY AT THE 2026 MAY DAY SPORTING COMPETITION
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‎Banjul, 4 May 2026 — The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, has extended heartfelt congratulations to the High Command of The Gambia Armed Forces and, in particular, the athletics team for their outstanding participation and well-deserved victory at the 2026 May Day sporting competition held at MacCarthy Square on Friday, 1 May 2026.
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‎The Minister described the achievement as a clear reflection of the discipline, unity, resilience, and professionalism that continue to define The Gambia Armed Forces as one of the country’s most respected institutions.
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‎He noted that the significance of the victory was further underscored by the presence of His Excellency the President of the Republic of The Gambia and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Adama Barrow, who attended the event alongside members of the public.
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‎According to Honourable Joof, the exemplary conduct and outstanding performance displayed by The Gambia Armed Forces before the Commander-in-Chief and the general public brought immense pride and honour to the Armed Forces, the Ministry of Defence, and the nation as a whole.
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‎The Minister further commended the athletes, coaches, and officials whose dedication, teamwork, and commitment contributed to this notable success. He emphasized that such accomplishments continue to reflect the values of excellence, patriotism, and service that the Armed Forces proudly embody.
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‎Honourable Joof reaffirmed the Ministry’s pride in the continued achievements of The Gambia Armed Forces and encouraged them to sustain the same spirit of discipline, determination, and teamwork in future national engagements.

29/04/2026

THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE’S SENIOR ASSISTANT SECRETARY HEADS GAMBIA’S DELEGATION TO THE 11TH NPT REVIEW CONFERENCE IN NEW YORK
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‎Banjul, 29 April 2026 — The Senior Assistant Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Jesse Joe Dacosta, is heading The Gambia’s delegation to the 11th Review Conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which has opened at the United Nations Headquarters in New York amid heightened geopolitical tensions and growing concerns over the future of global nuclear governance.
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‎The conference, which runs from 27 April to 22 May 2026, brings together States Parties to assess the implementation of the Treaty’s three core pillars, namely nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.
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‎Early proceedings have revealed a challenging diplomatic environment, underscored by sharp divisions among participating states. A notable point of contention emerged during the opening session following a dispute over Iran’s appointment as a vice-president of the conference, drawing criticism from the United States and highlighting broader geopolitical rivalries.
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‎The meeting is taking place against a complex global security backdrop marked by the modernization of nuclear arsenals by major powers, ongoing regional conflicts, and concerns over nuclear programmes in several regions. Observers note that these dynamics are placing increasing strain on the credibility and effectiveness of the NPT framework.
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‎Delegations are expected to engage in intensive discussions on key issues, including disarmament obligations under Article VI of the Treaty, strengthening safeguards under the International Atomic Energy Agency, and addressing regional proliferation challenges such as those in the Middle East and the Korean Peninsula.
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‎Particular attention is also being given to nuclear risk reduction measures, with many states warning of the dangers of miscalculation in an increasingly volatile international environment.
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‎The conference follows the failure of the 2022 Review Conference to reach a consensus outcome document, raising concerns about the prospects for agreement this year. Analysts suggest that entrenched positions between nuclear-weapon states and non-nuclear-weapon states may once again complicate efforts to achieve a unified outcome.
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‎Despite these challenges, many delegations have called for renewed commitment to multilateralism and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the importance of preserving the NPT as a cornerstone of the global non-proliferation regime.
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‎The coming weeks of negotiations will be critical in determining whether States Parties can bridge their differences and advance meaningful progress on nuclear disarmament and international security

29/04/2026

MINISTER JOOF PRESIDES OVER THE INAUGURATION OF A SIX-CLASSROOM BLOCK AND THE GRADUATION CEREMONY FOR INMATES AT MILE 2
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‎Banjul, 29 April 2026. On behalf of the Minister of Interior, Mr. Abdoulie Sanyang, the Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today presided over the official inauguration of a six-classroom block and the graduation ceremony for inmates at Mile 2 Central Prison.
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‎The event marked a significant milestone in the Government’s ongoing efforts to promote rehabilitation and reintegration within the prison system through education and skills development. The newly inaugurated six-classroom block is expected to enhance access to structured learning opportunities for inmates, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to rebuild their lives upon release.
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‎In his remarks, Minister Joof underscored the importance of education as a transformative tool within the correctional system. He emphasized that empowering inmates with relevant skills and education not only benefits the individuals concerned but also contributes to national development and public safety by reducing recidivism. He further noted that such initiatives align with The Gambia’s commitment to international human rights standards, ensuring that prisons are not merely places of punishment, but institutions where human dignity is respected and preserved.
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‎The graduation ceremony celebrated inmates who successfully completed various educational and vocational training programmes. The Minister commended their determination and encouraged them to remain committed to positive change. He highlighted that the Government’s initiative to equip inmates with skills, education, and tools for personal development is designed to empower them to rebuild their lives and contribute meaningfully to society. He added that their achievements serve as an inspiration to others within the facility.
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‎Officials from the Ministry of Interior, the Gambia Prison Service, and other stakeholders were present at the ceremony. The event highlighted the strong collaboration between government institutions and partners in advancing correctional reforms in The Gambia.
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‎The ceremony concluded on a positive note, with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to continue supporting initiatives that promote rehabilitation, dignity, and second chances for inmates, in line with the Government’s broader agenda for justice sector reform and human capital development. The Minister noted that when rehabilitation succeeds, communities become safer, families are restored, and the cycle of reoffending is broken.
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‎The Minister further advised the inmates to make the best use of the opportunity by embracing the training, education, and guidance provided. He urged them to choose a path of growth, discipline, and responsibility so they can return to society as better individuals and law-abiding citizens who contribute positively after serving their sentences. He also extended sincere gratitude and appreciation to partners such as the Insight Training Institute, MRC Holland Foundation, TiKa, and other valued development partners for their unwavering support in complementing Government efforts.

27/04/2026

QATARI AMBASSADOR PAYS COURTESY VISIT TO THE MINISTER OF DEFENCE
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‎Banjul, 27 April 2026 — The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today received the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to The Gambia, His Excellency Muhammed Bin Ali Al-Kuwari, at his office at the Ministry of Defence Complex in Banjul.
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‎The courtesy visit reaffirmed the strong and longstanding bilateral relations between the State of Qatar and the Republic of The Gambia, with both parties expressing a shared commitment to further strengthening cooperation in defence, security, and capacity development.
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‎During the meeting, Minister Joof emphasized the importance of strategic partnerships in addressing emerging and evolving security challenges. He reiterated The Gambia’s appreciation of its enduring relations with Qatar and underscored the Government’s commitment to deepening collaboration in areas that promote peace, stability, and institutional resilience.
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‎The Minister outlined key priority areas for support, including infrastructure development, capacity building, specialized training, and joint and exchange training programmes. He further highlighted the need for enhanced border security and surveillance capabilities, as well as support to strengthen the operational capacity of the Republican National Guard in public order management, and The Gambia Navy in maritime security, and efforts to combat drug trafficking, human trafficking, illegal fishing, and other transnational crimes.
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‎In his remarks, Ambassador Al-Kuwari reaffirmed Qatar’s strong commitment to its partnership with The Gambia, noting that his country stands ready to support initiatives that advance shared objectives in peace, security, and sustainable development.
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‎The meeting concluded on a positive and forward-ooking note, with both sides expressing optimism about the future of Gambia–Qatar relations and reaffirming their commitment to translating bilateral engagements into concrete and mutually beneficial outcomes.The Ambassador also used the opportunity to extend an invitation to the Honorable Minister for an official visit to Doha in December.
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‎The Ambassador was accompanied by the Qatari Charge de affairs, Mr. Abdallah Al-Kabi, and Mr. Bambo M.L Sillah, the Media Researcher at the Embassy of Qatar in The Gambia. The meeting was also attended by the Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Mr. Abdoulie M.I Kah and the Military Assistant to the Honorable Minister of Defence, Commander Adama Trawalley.
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Ministry of Defence-The Gambia

01/06/2026

27/05/2026

15/05/2026

12/05/2026

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06/05/2026

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