Society
Over the past two weeks, the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) has taken a significant step towards enhancing The Gambia’s border management by organizing a series of three consultative workshops on Integrated Border Management (IBM).
These initiatives are part of a Swiss Confederation-funded project aimed at supporting the efficiency and accountability of the Gambia Immigration Department (GID).
The first workshop brought together key government stakeholders responsible for border security and management in The Gambia. Its focus was on promoting collaboration among various agencies and highlighting the importance of international cooperation. The objective was to foster a strategic approach that acknowledges the significance of joint efforts in border management.
The second workshop was designed to engage practitioners and gain valuable insights into the current operating procedures at border crossing posts. By understanding the practical challenges faced on the ground, the workshop aimed to facilitate the development of effective strategies and standardised operating procedures to address them.
The third workshop centred around engagement programs for security institutions and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), emphasizing the migration and human rights approach to IBM, as well as gender mainstreaming. This comprehensive approach seeks to ensure that border management respects human rights and incorporates a gender perspective.
Commissioner Foday Gassama of the GID Migration Management Unit emphasized the importance of IBM in facilitating the swift movement of people across borders and efficient trade facilitation. He praised DCAF’s inter-agency engagements for enhancing the capacity of border officials and fostering greater cooperation and collaboration. Gassama also highlighted the need for improved infrastructure at border posts to create an ideal and conducive working environment.
Mariama Sallah, a participant representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed her enthusiasm for the workshop, describing the experience as fascinating and a valuable learning process. Having been involved in migration management, she emphasized the importance of moving beyond discussions and translating concepts into practical implementation.
Integrated Border Management aims to replace fragmented and traditional border control measures with a streamlined and collaborative approach. By encouraging information sharing, joint operations, joint patrols, and shared goals, this comprehensive system will strengthen border control points, prevent and detect organized crime, and ultimately improve overall border management in The Gambia. As the workshops conclude, DCAF will coordinate the development of an IBM Strategy and Action Plan, outlining the necessary steps to enhance border management in The Gambia.