By Ridhwana Ahmad Sinayoko
The Gambia Police Force (GPF) and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) marked a significant milestone in gender mainstreaming within the country’s security sector with the celebration of the Gender Promotion Initiative (GPI). The event, held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, highlighted the achievements of 20 female officers who underwent a rigorous year-long capacity-building programme, leading to the promotion of 15 officers.
The ceremony was graced by key stakeholders, including the Inspector General of Police (IGP) Seedy Mukhtar Touray, DCAF Head of Office, Ken Isaac; the European Union (EU) Deputy Head of Mission Raphaël Brigandi, and Chief of Staff of the Office of National Security (ONS), Landing Kinteh.
Empowering Women in Security
The GPI was launched as part of a broader commitment to gender equality and professional development within the GPF. According to DCAF Head of Office Ken Isaac, the initiative stemmed from a force-wide gender skills training audit conducted in 2023, which identified specific training needs for female officers. The subsequent programme, developed in collaboration with DCAF’s international experts, focused on leadership, interpersonal skills, policing tactics, and career advancement.
“This initiative has not only enhanced the capacity of the GPF but has also positioned these officers as role models for their colleagues,” Isaac stated. He expressed gratitude to the EU for funding the initiative and commended the officers for their dedication.
The programme, led by DCAF consultants Bill Priestley, Tim Jones, and Phil Davies, included mentorship, leadership training, and personal development plans tailored to each officer’s strengths. The success of the programme was evident, with 15 out of the 20 participants already promoted to higher ranks, and the remaining five expected to follow. This highlights the significant achievements of the Security Sector Reform (SSR) in promoting Gender mainstreaming within the sector.
A Commitment to Gender Mainstreaming
In his remarks, EU Deputy Head of Mission Raphaël Brigandi reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to gender inclusivity within security institutions. He highlighted the tangible impact of the GPI, noting that it contributed to key leadership appointments within the GPF, including the first female Head of Police Operations and the first female Head of Public Relations.
“An inclusive security sector is a more effective one,” Brigandi emphasized. “By empowering female officers, we are not only breaking barriers but also fostering a more responsive and community-oriented police force.”
The EU has been a longstanding partner in The Gambia’s security sector reform, supporting initiatives aimed at strengthening the efficiency, accountability, and inclusiveness of the GPF. Under the EU Gender Equality Action Plan III, gender mainstreaming remains a priority, with programs like the GPI serving as exemplary models of impactful change.
Institutionalizing Gender Equality
IGP Seedy Mukhtar Touray reiterated the GPF’s dedication to gender mainstreaming, as enshrined in the National Policing Strategy 2024-2028. He underscored ongoing efforts to ensure female officers have access to training, leadership opportunities, and higher education scholarships.
“We are operationalizing our commitment to gender inclusivity by embedding it in our policies and structures,” IGP Touray stated. “The presence of female officers in senior management, such as CP Amie Nyassi, ensures that their voices are heard in strategic decision-making.”
The IGP also announced the implementation of a zero-tolerance policy on sexual harassment within the force, with mechanisms in place for victims to report cases without fear of reprisal.
Looking Ahead
As the event concluded, speakers reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining the momentum of gender equality in The Gambia’s security sector. The GPI’s success serves as a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at creating a more inclusive and effective police force.
With the continued support of international partners like the EU and DCAF, The Gambia Police Force is poised to lead the way in gender mainstreaming, ensuring that women play a pivotal role in maintaining security and upholding justice in the country.
