By Amie Choi
Following the successful conduct of the first phase of sensitisation exercise to selected border communities by the Senegalo-Gambian Joint Boundary Management Commission, held from 10th to 20th September 2024, the Senegalo-Gambia Boundary Management Commission recently successfully executed the second phase of the Senegalo-Gambia Joint Boundary Sensitisation campaign. The exercise is part of activities earmarked in the roadmap developed in 2023 for the demarcation and densification of the border.
The joint team conducted sensitisation activities to border communities in the North Bank, Central River and Upper River Regions, and spanned several targeted villages, including Kerr Jane, Ginack Kajata, Kerr Pateh, and Mbap Anglais, Kerr Alajie Malick, Jimbala, Panchang, Kerr Yerore, Sare Ngai, Bulock and Darsilameh in The Gambia, alongside their correspondents in Senegal; such as Keur Alassane Diallo, Djinak Kobe, Tawfeeq, and Mbap Fracaise.
The exercise sought to raise awareness of the people living along the border between The Gambia and Senegal about the issues, processes and benefits of border demarcation and densification. The ultimate objective was to promote peace, security and cross-border cooperation, while strengthening good neighborly relations among the border communities.
Relevant government bodies, including the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Office of the President, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry of Interior, Gambia Police Force, Ministry of Defence, and Gambia Immigration Department, as well as members of the commission collaborated closely to ensure the event was successful.
In a preparatory meeting held earlier at the Ministry of Lands, Regional Government, and Religious Affairs, the chairperson, Permanent Secretary Ndey Marie Njie, emphasised the importance of coordinated efforts in reaching the local populations and discuss this significant initiative. “The sensitisation campaign is a vital step in informing and uniting communities about the activities ahead,” Permanent Secretary Njie stated.
The successful completion of the boundary sensitisation campaign marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to ensure a smooth and collaborative border demarcation process. Both governments reaffirmed their commitment to fostering peace and sustainable development along their shared border.
