By: Mariama Njie
International Organization for migration (IOM) has launched a migration information and data analysis system for border management and will be managed by the Gambia Immigration Department (GID).
The launch of the Migration Information and Data Analysis formed part of the Japanese government-funded project which seeks to improve the country’s border management system through an integrated three-pillars approach, focusing on improve physical infrastructure, facilities and equipment at borders posts, strengthen migration data collection and analysis.
Acknowledging the importance of the launching, IOM Chief Mission, Fumiko Nagano said it is important for the country as the Gambia Immigration Department continues to strengthen its operational capacity to deliver effective border management operations to ensure the safe, orderly, regular and humane migration across borders for Gambian citizens and non-Gambian migrants.
She explained that migration information and data analysis is a high quality user friendly, cost effective and fully customizable border management information system developed by IOM for states in need of a cost effective and comprehensive solution.
She revealed that they have provided equipment and infrastructure to the Gambia Immigration department to sustainably use MIDAS, “these include composed of desktop computers, web cameras, passport readers, fingerprints scanners and field servers, database, immigration booths, CCTV cameras, local Area networks, solar power supply, air conditioners and a central server setup at the immigration headquarters.”
“IOM also supported technical capacity building on the use of MIDAS, 40 borders officials trained to process and record traveler information on MIDAS,” she stated.
She however commended the Gambia Immigration Department for the great achievement and for their commitment to strengthen The Gambia’s border management system.
Director of Gambia Immigration Department, Mr Seedy Touray said the provision of the migration information and data analysis system is an activity implemented under the project ‘Enhancing capacity of the Gambia’s local and central governments to manage borders and contribute to trade facilitation, community and economic development.
He added that migration data collection and management is central to the core mandate of The Gambia Immigration Department.
“Handing over of this system today is a clear testimony to the interest and commitment The Gambia government attaches to effective and efficient border control and management,” he divulged.
Meanwhile, he said The Gambia Immigration Department’s aim is to facilitate an effective and efficient service delivery and ensuring the safe, orderly and regular movement of people.
