On Monday 29th July 2024 the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad hosted the second quarterly meeting of the National Coordinating Mechanism on Migration (NCM).
The NCM meets quarterly to review and report on the activities of the various Thematic Working Groups (TWGs) in the quarter.
The 2-day workshop was officially opened by Ambassador Lang Yabou, Permanent Secretary I at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad.
In his statement, Ambassador Yabou stated that the gathering reinforced government’s commitment to a coordinated and comprehensive approach to migration management and governance in The Gambia.
He highlighted the areas where the government has made significant progress in addressing migration issues; such as the frequent voluntary return flights which are done in partnership with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
“The Gambia has safely repatriated 1, 978 stranded migrants across the sub-region,” he reported.
He also acknowledged the growing challenge of irregular migration with the frequent migrant boat interceptions, reported deaths and missing vessels. He made reference to the recent tragedy of the shipwreck off the coast of Mauritania which resulted in the loss of 28 lives. This, he stressed, underscores the urgency of the body’s mission and that is a “reminder of the perils that our citizens face.”
The Permanent Secretary assured that the Government of The Gambia is “actively working to create viable opportunities within and outside our borders to reduce the allure of these perilous journeys.” He also reiterated the government’s commitment to finding sustainable alternatives to irregular migration and its dedication to safeguard the lives and dignity of its citizens.
Furthermore, he announced The Gambia’s approval as a beneficiary of the Casa-Africa project from 2021 - 2027. The project, he explained, represents a significant step forward in their collaborative efforts to explore similar opportunities with other partner countries, to ensure that migration remains a choice not a desperate undertaking.
Mr Yabou thanked members of the NCM for their unwavering dedication and collaborative spirit. “Together we will continue to champion the cause of safe, orderly, and regular migration,” he optimistically concludes.
Following the opening ceremony, the respective TWGs made presentations on their activities and plans in the period.
