By Sarjo M. Camara
The Ministry of Interior, under the leadership of Hon. Abdoulie Sanyang, has achieved a significant milestone by validating its first-ever Internal Security Policy (ISP). This historic event, which took place on Wednesday, August 7th, 2024, marks a pivotal step in The Gambia’s ongoing security sector reform efforts. The policy, developed with the support of the European Union and the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), is expected to set a clear direction for the Ministry, enhancing its role in maintaining national security.
In his remarks, Minister Sanyang expressed his profound satisfaction with the progress made, noting that the validation of the ISP represents a major achievement in the country’s Security Sector Reform (SSR) process.
The ISP is designed as a comprehensive framework to improve the efficiency of the Ministry of Interior and strengthen the overall security architecture of The Gambia. It addresses the persistent issue of uncoordinated activities among various internal security agencies and aims to reform the Ministry to meet contemporary security challenges. By establishing clear guidelines and a cohesive strategy, the policy ensures effective collaboration among all security institutions under the Ministry’s purview, enabling a more coordinated response to internal security challenges.
Minister Sanyang explained that the policy not only provides strategic direction but also prioritises continuous training and capacity building within security institutions. “This will not only enhance their operational readiness but also ensure that they can effectively address emerging threats such as cyber-crimes, drug trafficking, and terrorism,” he added.
A key aspect of the ISP is its focus on improving public trust and confidence in security institutions. By adopting a community policing approach, the policy aims to make security measures more inclusive, protecting the most vulnerable groups in society. Central to the ISP is the promotion of human security, aligning with national security policies, defense strategies, and international human rights standards. The policy underscores the Ministry’s commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of every Gambian and resident, ensuring that security measures are both effective and humane.
The ISP is a cornerstone of the broader Security Sector Reform agenda, aligning with other strategic frameworks; such as the National Security Policy, National Defence Policy, National Security Strategy, and the Security Sector Reform Strategy. By providing a unified direction for all security initiatives, the policy contributes to a safer and more stable Gambia.
H.E. Cornelio Pampaloni, the EU Ambassador, praised the validation of the ISP as a significant milestone in the cooperation between The Gambia and the European Union. “Security is a fundamental aspect of any society, essential for the well-being of our citizens and the prosperity of our nations,” he said. The Ambassador highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting The Gambia’s SSR agenda, particularly in strengthening internal security capabilities.
Mr. Abubakarr Suleiman Jeng, the National Security Adviser, emphasised that the ISP is grounded in a constitutional mandate to provide democratic civilian control, oversight, and governance functions for internal security institutions. He reiterated that the ISP reaffirms these constitutional mandates and provides a clear direction and approach for the Ministry of Interior and its line departments, ensuring optimal security and safety service delivery for citizens and residents.
Mr. Ken Isaac, Head of The Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) in The Gambia, reiterated DCAF’s commitment to enhancing security through more effective and accountable security and justice systems. Since establishing a permanent office in The Gambia in 2018, DCAF has worked closely with local security institutions, adapting international best practices to the Gambian context. Mr. Isaac expressed appreciation for the EU’s investment in The Gambia, which has facilitated the development of the ISP and other critical security initiatives.
