Africa-Press – Gambia. The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), Lieutenant General Mamat A. Cham, has called on military personnel to cultivate a habit of saving, particularly through the GAF Credit Union, in a bid to cushion their financial wellbeing.
Speaking at the GAF’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on Thursday in Kanilai, CDS Cham highlighted the strategic importance of the Credit Union in improving the lives of soldiers and their families, while revealing an ambitious long-term goal to transform the union into a fully-fledged Armed Forces Bank.
“The future belongs to those who dare to dream and plan,” Cham stated. “I am encouraged by the vision to upgrade the GAF Credit Union. While ambitious, it aligns with the steady growth we have witnessed. The GAF command stands ready to support this transformation by providing the necessary institutional backing.”
He emphasized that any expansion must remain rooted in compliance, innovation, and a strong focus on members’ needs.
CDS Cham praised the credit union’s impact beyond traditional financial services, citing the recent allocation of affordable plots of land in Siffoe as a tangible example of its initiatives.
“What could be more empowering than enabling a soldier or junior officer to own land?” he asked, urging the Credit Union’s board to explore similar land acquisition opportunities in other regions to extend the benefits to more members.
He further encouraged every member of the armed forces personnel to support staff, not only to join the Credit Union but to actively promote its services within their circles, including family members and civilians.
“I urge all of you to become ambassadors of the GAF Credit Union. Take an active interest in its affairs and help grow this institution together,” he said.
General Cham commended the Board of Directors for their strong leadership, noting that financial institutions require vision, transparency, and accountability – qualities he said the board has demonstrated consistently. He also extended appreciation to the management and staff for their continued dedication and service.
The GAF Credit Union continues to play a critical role in the welfare of service members, and with plans for expansion on the horizon, leadership is aiming to make it a cornerstone of financial empowerment within the armed force.
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