The Gambia Prison Service

YMCA Conducts Climate Change gamesTraining for Juveniles.

Dated: 13th May, 2026.

The YMCA, through its Climate Game Change Project, organized a climate change training and development exercise for juveniles to help them better understand environmental issues affecting their communities. The training created a friendly and interactive atmosphere where young participants learned about climate change through educational games, group discussions, and practical activities.

During the session, facilitators explained how climate change is affecting everyday life through rising temperatures, flooding, pollution, deforestation, and irregular rainfall. Instead of only listening to lectures, the juveniles actively participated in climate games that made learning easier, more enjoyable, and relatable to their daily experiences.

The games encouraged teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving as participants worked together to identify environmental problems and discuss practical solutions. They shared ideas on how simple actions such as planting trees, keeping their surroundings clean, recycling waste, and reducing pollution can help protect the environment and improve their communities.

As part of the activities, awards were presented to a few participants who successfully identified the effects of climate change and explained its impact on the environment and communities. The recognition motivated the juveniles and encouraged active participation throughout the training sessions.

YMCA representatives encouraged the young people to become ambassadors for environmental protection by sharing the knowledge they gained with friends, families, and their communities. They emphasized that young people have an important role to play in creating a cleaner, safer, and more sustainable future.

The Climate Game Change Project continues to empower juveniles with knowledge, confidence, and practical skills to take positive action against climate change while promoting community participation and environmental responsibility.

signed: public relations Officer

ASP NGIRAN NYANE & SPO KEBBA JAITEH RETIRED FROM ACTIVE SERVICE .

Dated: 8th, May ,2026

After 30 years of dedicated service to the security fraternity, two prison officers have officially retired. In a beautiful and emotional retirement ceremony held at the Mile 2 Prison Headquarters, where senior officers gathered to congratulate and honor the retirees for their outstanding commitment and contribution to national service.

During the ceremony, different speakers delivered heartfelt remarks, thanking the retired officers for their dedication, discipline, and the positive difference they made throughout their careers. The event was filled with emotion as colleagues reflected on the officers’ years of loyal service and sacrifice.

The Director General also expressed profound gratitude to the retirees, reaffirming appreciation for their unwavering dedication and commitment to duty over the past three decades.

Signed: public relations officer.

GPS WITH SECURITY INSTITUTIONS VISIT MEMORY HOUSE.

Dated: 7th May , 2026

As part of the memorialisation process for past human rights abuses involving both victims and perpetrators, ANNEKED, together with security institutions, extended its visit to the Memory House to strengthen awareness and reflection on the suffering endured by many people. The visit highlighted painful experiences, including enforced disappearances and other violations committed during the past regime.

It also served as an important moment for protection, accountability, reconciliation, and institutional reflection. Security institutions were encouraged to deepen their commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights while acknowledging the pain and trauma experienced by victims, their families, and loved ones. The engagement created an opportunity for dialogue, remembrance, and renewed responsibility toward ensuring that such abuses never happen again.

Signed:
Public Relations Officer

OFFICER RAMATA BAH GRADUATE WITH BSc IN DEVELOPMENT STUDIES.

Dated :2nd May,2026

History has been made as Officer Ramata Bah becomes the first female officer in the Gambia Prison Service to earn a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Development Studies an achievement that goes far beyond personal success and speaks directly to the ongoing transformation of The Gambia’s security sector reform.

Her graduation was celebrated today at the University of The Gambia’s convocation ceremony in Faraba, where 1,600 students were conferred with degrees in the presence of the President, serving as Chancellor. This moment is not only symbolic of academic excellence, but also of national progress.

Officer Bah’s accomplishment aligns strongly with the recommendations of the Truth, Reconciliation and Reparations Commission (TRRC), particularly in the area of capacity building and professionalization of security institutions. The TRRC emphasized the urgent need to reform state institutions by investing in education, training, and ethical leadership ensuring that security services are grounded in respect for human rights, accountability, and service to the public.

Within the broader framework of Security Sector Reform (SSR) in The Gambia, her achievement represents a tangible outcome of these efforts. It reflects a shift toward a more modern, inclusive, and competent prison service one that values knowledge, gender inclusion, and continuous professional development. As institutions evolve from past challenges toward democratic standards, milestones like this demonstrate that reform is not only policy-based, but people-driven.

Importantly, Officer Bah’s success also advances the role of women in the security sector. Her journey challenges long-standing gender barriers and reinforces the importance of equal opportunity within national institutions. It sends a powerful message that women are not only participants but leaders and pioneers in shaping the future of security and governance in The Gambia.

This achievement should serve as both inspiration and a call to action for continued investment in education, for stronger institutional support, and for sustained commitment to the principles outlined by the TRRC. It highlights what is possible when reform agendas are matched with opportunity and determination.

As The Gambia continues on its path of reform and renewal, Officer Ramata Bah stands as a symbol of progress, professionalism, and hope for a more accountable and inclusive security sector.

Sign :
Public relations officer

GRADUATION AND INAUGURATION CEREMONY

Dated :30th April,2026

The Prison Service, in collaboration with its partner, Insight Training Institute, recently held an inauguration and graduation ceremony marking the completion of a six-classroom facility and the successful training of inmates in tailoring, satellite, and electrical installation.

A total of 50 beneficiaries took part in the program, comprising 48 inmates and 2 officers. The project was supported by several partners, including MRC Holland Foundation, TIKA, and The Gambia Children First.

The event was attended by key government officials ,Ministers of Defense including the Minister of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology, who served as the Chief Guest of Honour, as well as representatives from various security institutions and partners.
Delivery the opening remarks the Director General Of Prison thanked the partners for the transformation that is on going through partnership as its administration focuses more on rehabilitation and thus impacting the society upon reintegration as many success stories have be registered through similar initiatives.

In his key notes address, the Chief Guest of Honour underscored the importance of technical and vocational education as a critical driver for national development and economic growth. He emphasized that equipping individuals with practical skills not only enhances employment opportunities but also contributes significantly to the country’s overall progress.

Other speakers also highlighted the importance of technical training as a vital rehabilitation tool, noting its role in preparing inmates for successful reintegration into society and in reducing recidivism.

On behalf of the President of the Republic, the Minister of Defence donated D10,000 to 24 inmates as a gesture of support. Certificates and toolboxes were also awarded to the graduates to assist them in starting their trades upon release.

Signed.
The Public Relations Officer

# CELEBRATING WOMAN POWER #

Security institutions inaugurates International Women’s Day 2026 in Kerewan.

Dated: 25th April, 2026

The community of Kerewan marked a significant milestone with the successful inauguration of International Women’s Day 2026. The ceremony was graced by Her Excellency the First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia, Madam Fatou Bah Barrow, the Governor of North Bank Region, and female senior security officers, who joined local leaders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and development partners in a unified show of support for gender equality and empowerment.

International Women’s Day, celebrated globally on March 8, serves as a powerful platform to recognize the achievements, resilience, and contributions of women across all sectors of society.
In Kerewan, this year’s inauguration went beyond celebration it reaffirmed a shared commitment to advancing women’s rights, promoting inclusive development, and supporting the rehabilitation of communities through the active participation of women.

The presence of female senior security officers highlighted the growing role of women in leadership and national service. Their participation underscored the importance of women’s inclusion in all sectors, including peace and security.

In her address, the First Lady commended the women of Kerewan for their strength and dedication to community development. She reiterated government’s commitment to creating opportunities that uplift women and girls, particularly in education, health, and economic empowerment. The Governor of North Bank Region also expressed appreciation for the role of women in driving progress across the region and pledged continued support for initiatives that promote their welfare.

The event featured cultural displays, testimonies from inspiring women leaders, and keynote addresses highlighting progress made and the work still ahead. The inauguration set a hopeful and determined tone for the activities lined up to commemorate Women’s Day in Kerewan. It stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to building a future where every woman and girl can thrive, contribute, and lead.

Signed:
Public Relations Officer

THE GAMBIA PRISON SERVICE PARTICIPATES TRAINING ON CHILD PROTECTION IN CONAKRY .

Dated :24th April , 2026

Officials of child protection and service providers participated in an international training on child protection held in Conakry. The workshop focused on the growing number of children on the move and was organized by PAPEV to promote and strengthen children’s rights.

The four-day session brought together participants from Guinea-Bissau, Guinea (Conakry), Senegal, and The Gambia. Discussions covered key areas including trafficking and smuggling trends, as well as efforts to strengthen investigations and improve the identification of routes used by traffickers.

The training also explored different approaches and techniques for tracking and identifying cases of child trafficking, enhancing early detection and coordinated response among participating countries. Discuss continue on the cooperation among countries including reparations, extradition and respect for international treaties dealing with children rights.

The event witnessed the presence of senior government officials from Guinea, including the Minister of Children, Women, and Gender Affairs. In his remarks, he highlighted the importance of regional convergence and collaboration on children’s rights, noting the progress made while reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening efforts in this area.

The training includes the government commitment to strengthen institutions that provide services to these communities and how to increase support where needed.

On the final day, various security and protection actors responsible for children’s and women’s affairs presented their approaches to safeguarding vulnerable groups. These included strategies for providing protection, delivering psychosocial support to victims, and strengthening legal mechanisms for the prosecution of trafficking offenses.

Participating countries made a strong commitment to adopting a shared and coordinated approach in the fight against the trafficking of vulnerable children.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants.

Signed :
Public Relations Officer

THE CHIEF FIRE OFFICER AND HIS TEAM PAID A VISIT TO THE GAMBIA PRISON SERVICE TO STRENGTHEN INSTITUTIONAL COLLABORATION

Dated: 21st April , 2026.

The Chief Fire Officer recently engaged with the Gambia Prison Service as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional collaboration and enhance safety standards within correctional facilities. The engagement focused on collaboration between the two institutions, as well as assessing fire prevention measures, evaluating emergency preparedness, and identifying areas that require improvement to ensure the safety of both inmates and staff.

During the engagement, a meeting was held with senior officials of the Gambia Prison Service to discuss the importance of regular fire drills, staff training, and the development of clear evacuation procedures. The Chief Fire Officer laments on the need to build cooperation within the security sector, thereby enabling institutions to work closely together to achieve their common goals.

The engagement further provided an opportunity to reinforce cooperation between the Fire and Rescue Service and the Prison Service. Both institutions expressed their commitment to working closely together to build capacity through joint training exercises, awareness programs, and technical support. This partnership is expected to improve response times and reduce the risk of fire-related incidents within prison environments.

The Director General of Prisons expressed appreciation for the engagement, noting that he was uplifted by the interaction. He assured that his administration remains committed to working closely with the Fire and Rescue Service, as has been the practice over the years. He further described the long-standing relationship between the two institutions as one that goes beyond formal administration, referring to it as a “family relationship and thus committed to improve on service delivery.

Sign :
Public Relations Officer