Africa-Press – Gambia. The Gambia Immigration Department on Thursday graduated its first class of 100 border patrol officers, marking a milestone in the country’s effort to reinforce border management and curb irregular migration amid rising regional security concerns.
The ceremony, held at the Gambia Armed Forces parade ground in Fajara after three months of intensive training, brought together senior government officials and security leaders. The department described the new unit as a sign of institutional growth and renewed commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders.
Speaking at the passing-out parade, the Minister of Interior, Abdoulie Sanyang, said the newly trained officers would play a central role in strengthening national security and improving border control operations.
The initiative, he said, aligns with the government’s broader strategy to combat irregular migration and transnational crimes, including human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
“Our borders represent our future, a gateway that defines the basic architecture of the security, human capital, and sovereignty of our nation,” Mr. Sanyang told the graduates. “Thus, these cream of young officers, dressed in their beautiful colors, will not just improve national security but serve as an assurance to every Gambian and resident of the Gambia.”
Mr. Sanyang said the initiative aligned with the government’s Recovery-Focused National Development Plan, known as the Yiriwa Agenda, which places security at the center of democratic governance and socioeconomic transformation. He also cited recommendations from the country’s Security Sector Reform Assessment Report and National Security Policy.
“A commitment to consolidate gains and address critical development gaps in democratic governance and in economic and social transformation. It also aligns deeply with recommendations of the Security Sector Reform Assessment Report and the National Security Policy of the Gambia,” he said.
Ebrima Mboob, Director General of Immigration, urged the newly graduated officers to recognize the weight of their responsibility in securing the nation’s borders, facilitating lawful travel, and safeguarding vulnerable youth attempting perilous journeys across the Mediterranean.
He noted that irregular migration by sea has claimed numerous Gambian lives in recent years.
“Border security is not just about checkpoints and patrols; it is about service to our communities, respect for human rights, and adherence to the rule of law. As you take up your posts, remember these core values,” he said.
He cautioned that contemporary border challenges are increasingly complex, spanning irregular migration, smuggling networks, and transnational crimes that exploit systemic weaknesses.
“Your role is critical in responding to these challenges with vigilance and courage.”
