By Sarjo M. Camara
The Ministry of the Interior in collaboration with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) last week validated the International Border Management (IBM) concept and implementation plan at a local hotel in Kotu.
Addressing the meeting, the Director General of The Gambia Immigration Department, Seedy M. Touray, expressed his profound gratitude for DCAF’s continuous partnership and relentless commitment to enhancing the GID effectiveness. He noted that the support is helping them develop efficient and modern management systems.
He added that with collaborative efforts and dedication, they have underscored the importance of partnership in achieving meaningful progress.
Mr.Touray pointed out that a significant number of the key border crossing points have now been successfully installed with the Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS),which has the capability of analysing, processing, and collecting information data in real-time from travelers that are moving in and out of the country. He noted that improvements continues to be made in this regard.
Mr. Abraham Mendy, the Deputy Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior said the political transformation, globalisation, increased legal and illegal trade,and transnational organised crimes are changing the border environment. This change, he noted, obliges governments to manage borders more effectively and efficiently.
He noted that Integrated Border Management (IBM), developed by the European Commission, refered to as coordinated approach followed by border management agencies at the national and international levels involved in border security and trade facilitation. The coordination aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of border management systems to achieve open well-controlled and secure borders while ensuring that legal requirements are met.
International consultant, Willem Pretorius said IBM is a critical part of The Gambia Security Sector reform context. He noted that the IBM Concept for The Gambia and related implementation plan was developed in detailed consultation with CSOs and other actors to ensure that issues around migration and human rights, including gender mainstreaming have been afforded full consideration and respect.
