Ministry of Defence-The Gambia

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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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‎EU SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE TO THE SAHEL REGION PAYS COURTESY CALL ON THE MINISTER OF DEFENCE
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‎Banjul, 24 April 2026. The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, today received the European Union Special Representative for the Sahel Region, His Excellency Mr. João Cravinho, at his office at the Ministry of Defence Complex in Banjul.
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‎The courtesy call provided an opportunity for both parties to discuss issues of mutual interest, particularly in the areas of regional security, defence cooperation, and the evolving security dynamics in the Sahel region. Discussions also focused on strengthening collaboration between The Gambia and the European Union in addressing transnational threats, including drug trafficking, organized crime, illegal fishing within The Gambia’s blue economy, and irregular migration.
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‎Minister Joof expressed appreciation for the European Union’s continued support to The Gambia’s defence and security sector, highlighting the importance of sustained partnerships in enhancing national and regional stability. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to promoting peace, security, and democratic governance.
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‎Minister Joof also highlighted the logistical constraints and capacity gaps faced by the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), particularly the Gambia Navy, in safeguarding the country’s exclusive economic zone and territorial waters. He solicited EU support in the areas of surveillance capabilities, training, and capacity building for members of the GAF, as well as improvements in the living and working conditions of personnel..
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‎The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, expressed similar sentiments and further advocated for support to include accommodation and the establishment of a Defence Academy for the Gambia Armed Forces.
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‎His Excellency Mr. Cravinho commended The Gambia for its contributions to regional peace and stability and underscored the European Union’s readiness to further deepen cooperation with The Gambia, particularly in capacity building, security sector reform, and peace support initiatives. He also acknowledged the concerns raised regarding surveillance capabilities, infrastructure, equipment, training for the GAF, and access to the European Peace Facility.
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‎The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their shared commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and working collaboratively to address emerging security challenges in the Sahel and the wider West African region.
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‎His Excellency Mr Joao Cravinha was accompanied to the Ministry of Defence by EU Deputy Head of Mission, Mr. Raphael Brigandi, and an EU Political Advisor, Mr.Fidelis Etah E Wane.

‎THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE CONVENES A STAKEHOLDERS’ MEETING TO SUPPORT THE DRAFTING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ARMS TRADE TREATY (ATT) ACT FOR THE GAMBIA
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‎Banjul, 22 April 2026. The Ministry of Defence has convened a stakeholders’ committee meeting to support the drafting and implementation of the Arms Trade Treaty (ATT) Act for The Gambia.
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‎This initiative forms part of the Ministry’s broader commitment to strengthening national arms control systems and aligning with international obligations under the Arms Trade Treaty.
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‎The meeting, held at the Ministry’s conference hall in Banjul, brought together key stakeholders from relevant government institutions, as well as an international expert and consultant from the partner organization, Saferworld, whose roles are critical to the effective regulation and control of arms transfers in the country.
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‎Presiding over the meeting, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, who also serves as the National Point of Contact (NPC) on the Arms Trade Treaty in The Gambia, emphasized the importance of a coordinated and inclusive approach in developing the legal framework. She noted that the drafting of the ATT Act represents a significant milestone in enhancing transparency, accountability, and responsible arms transfers.
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‎For his part, the international expert and consultant from Saferworld highlighted that the Arms Trade Treaty provides a global framework aimed at regulating the international trade in conventional arms and preventing illicit arms flows. He further emphasized the importance of ensuring that The Gambia fully complies with its obligations under the Treaty through the enactment of robust and comprehensive national legislation.
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‎The Stakeholders’ Committee meeting approved the establishment of a task force comprising legal experts and technical specialists from relevant institutions to work alongside the international expert from Saferworld in drafting the Act. Key areas of focus will include regulatory mechanisms, enforcement provisions, inter-agency coordination, and compliance measures necessary for the effective implementation of the Act.
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‎The stakeholders’ engagement marks a crucial step towards the development of a strong legislative framework to guide arms control in The Gambia, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a responsible member of the international community committed to peace, security, and the rule of law.

MINISTER JOOF ADDRESSES FIRST PLENARY MEETING OF THE G7++ FRIENDS OF THE GULF OF GUINEA IN PARIS
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‎Banjul, 15 April 2026. The Honorable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, today addressed the First Plenary Meeting of the G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea, held in Paris, France.
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‎The high-level international gathering brought together policymakers, security experts, and representatives of States Parties to deliberate on pressing issues relating to maritime security, regional stability, and sustainable development across Africa, particularly within the Gulf of Guinea.
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‎In his address, Minister Joof highlighted the strategic importance of the Gulf of Guinea as a vital maritime corridor for global trade and economic activity. He underscored the growing security challenges in the region, including piracy, illegal fishing, trafficking, and other forms of transnational organized crime, which continue to undermine peace and development.
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‎The Minister reaffirmed The Gambia’s commitment to strengthening regional and international cooperation in addressing maritime threats. He emphasized the need for enhanced information and intelligence sharing, capacity building, and coordinated naval operations among coastal states and international partners to ensure a secure and prosperous maritime environment.
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‎Minister Joof further called for sustained support from global partners to empower regional institutions and frameworks aimed at tackling insecurity in the Gulf of Guinea. He noted that secure and reliable maritime corridors are indispensable in facilitating international trade, particularly for coastal and import- dependent economies such as The Gambia. A durable solutions must also address the root causes of instability, including unemployment, weak governance structures, and limited economic opportunities . He asserted.
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‎The meeting also provided a platform for participating countries to exchange best practices, review ongoing initiatives, and explore new avenues for collaboration in promoting maritime governance and blue economy initiatives.
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‎The G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea remains a key multilateral platform for fostering dialogue and partnership between regional states and international stakeholders committed to ensuring peace, security, and sustainable development in one of Africa’s most strategically significant maritime zones.
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‎The Ministry of Defence’s participation in the plenary session underscores The Gambia’s active engagement in international efforts to promote maritime security and its unwavering commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
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‎As global attention increasingly turns to the security and economic potential of the Gulf of Guinea, The Gambia’s active participation at this high-level forum reinforces its voice in shaping collective responses to shared challenges. The outcomes of the meeting are expected to further galvanize coordinated international action, strengthen regional resilience, and advance a safer and more prosperous maritime domain for present and future generations.

MINISTER JOOF TO ADDRESS FIRST PLENARY MEETING OF G7++ FRIENDS OF THE GULF OF GUINEA IN PARIS
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‎Banjul, 13 April 2026. The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, accompanied by the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence, Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, will address the first plenary meeting of the G7++ Friends of the Gulf of Guinea in Paris, France.
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‎The plenary meeting, scheduled to take place from 15 to 16 April 2026, is being convened under the auspices of the Group of Seven, with France serving as host and principal organizer in its capacity as the 2026 G7 Presidency.
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‎The meeting is organized within the framework of the G7++ FoGG initiative—an international partnership platform that brings together G7 member states, Gulf of Guinea countries, and key regional and international stakeholders to strengthen maritime security and promote stability across the Gulf of Guinea region.
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‎The plenary will also be supported by participating G7 countries, alongside regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States, as well as strategic partners including the European Union, all working collaboratively to address shared maritime security challenges.
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‎The participation of the Gambian delegation underscores the country’s continued commitment to regional and international efforts aimed at enhancing maritime security, combating transnational organized crime, and ensuring the safety of vital sea lanes within the Gulf of Guinea.
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‎Minister Joof’s address is expected to highlight The Gambia’s contributions to collective security initiatives, while also reaffirming the importance of sustained cooperation, capacity building, and information sharing among partner states in tackling emerging threats in the maritime domain.