By Ridhwana Sinayoko
On October 2nd, 2024 the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the Office of National Security (ONS) and other partners launched a project aimed at supporting The Gambia’s Security Sector Reform (SSR). This marked a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to sustain peace and build stronger, more accountable security institutions. Launched at Bakadaji Hotel in Kololi, the project aligns with The Gambia’s Recovery Focused National Development Plan (2023-2027) with the aim to strengthen the nation’s security frameworks to foster sustainable development.
In her opening remarks, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, Mandisa Mashologu, highlighted the importance of this initiative in supporting The Gambia’s peaceful transition to a more inclusive and secure future. “This project stands as a testament to our shared commitment to fostering peace, security, and sustainable development for all Gambians,” she stated. She also emphasised that one of the key focuses of the project is promoting gender-responsive reforms within the security sector by addressing long-standing barriers that have limited women’s participation.
“To achieve this, we will develop a comprehensive Gender Policy for all security institutions. This will ensure the inclusion of women in decision-making and leadership roles, while also establishing safe spaces and gender-friendly facilities,” ,” Madam Mandisa added. She acknowledged the financial support from the United Nations Peace Building Fund (UN PBF), which has been instrumental in making the project possible.
Mulai Colley, Director of the Office of National Security stressed the critical need for reforms within the sector, particularly in areas such as communication and coordination. “We’ve identified things that need to be done better, especially in communication and coordination,” Colley remarked, calling for proactive steps to ensure the success of the reform process by learning from past challenges.
The UN Resident Coordinator, Karl-Frédérick Paul, called for greater public awareness about the significance of the reforms. “There are still gaps in how we communicate, but this project offers a real opportunity to bridge those gaps,” he said, expressing optimism about the collective progress that can be achieved.
Mr. Pateh Jah, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Public Service, who represented the Secretary General and Head of Civil Service, reiterated the importance of transparency and inclusivity in the reform process. “It is good sometimes to admit mistakes and move forward,” he noted, acknowledging the challenges of past reforms while expressing hope that this new initiative would mark a departure from previous efforts.
The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the UN’s commitment in working alongside the Gambian government and civil society.
This new phase of the Security Sector Reform project is envisaged to strengthen the institutional capacities of Gambia’s security apparatus and enhance public trust through accountability and inclusivity, particularly focusing on women and marginalised groups. The successful implementation of the project is expected to bring Gambia’s security institutions closer to international standards, while fostering a deeper connection with the citizens they serve.
