By: Kemo Kanyi
The Director General of the Gambia Immigration Department, Bai Ebrima Mboob, has underscored the significance of capacity-building for immigration officers stationed at entry points, asserting that training is a fundamental component for enhancing the professional conduct within the institution.
During the inauguration of the “hostmanship” training program, organized by the government of the Netherlands for personnel of the Gambia Immigration Department at Banjul International Airport on Monday, DG Mboob reaffirmed his department’s dedication to providing exceptional hospitality to all visitors, particularly tourists passing through the airport. He indicated that the training signifiedthe commencement of the third edition of the training initiative, which demonstrates the Dutch government’s steadfast commitment to their mutual objectives.
“This initiative is in alignment with our Strategic Plan, which emphasizes capacity building and training as critical elements of institutional development. Since the origin of this program, I am pleased to report notable enhancements in service delivery at Banjul International Airport. Improvements in staff attitudes, operational efficiency, and the capacity to create a welcoming atmosphere for passengers have significantly elevated our professionalism and reinforced our reputation,” stated DG Mboob.
He explained that the partnership and the training opportunities facilitated through it are invaluable to the GID’s pursuit of excellence, particularly in relation to the department’s first Strategic Plan (2019–2024). DG Mboob added that the GID is poised to launch a revised strategic plan for 2025–2030.
“This new strategy reaffirms our commitment to human rights, the rule of law, good governance, and gender equality—principles that will define our institution’s future trajectory. However, the realization of these ambitious objectives necessitates sustained support, particularly in the realm of advancing human rights and gender-focused initiatives. We are optimistic that the Kingdom of the Netherlands and its partners will continue to provide their support,” he added.
Acknowledging the complexities inherent in human rights, the rule of law, good governance, and gender advancement within the security sector, DG Mboob emphasized the crucial role of financial resources in effectively implementing these strategic priorities.
“Therefore, we respectfully request that the Government of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, in accordance with the values of human rights, the rule of law, good governance, and gender equality, espoused by the European Union and the Netherlands, assist us in the implementation process. We believe that adequately addressing human rights and gender issues will also facilitate the resolution of challenges related to the rule of law and good governance. We remain hopeful for your ongoing support, both directly and indirectly,” stated the immigration boss.
The deputy ambassador at the Netherlands embassy in Dakar, Rogier Hekking, expressed the optimism that this collaboration can significantly contribute to the efforts against injustice, impunity, and human rights violations. He noted that approximately 30,000 Dutch nationals visit The Gambia annually as tourists, thus contributing meaningfully to the nation’s economy.
Director of international affairs for one of the migration agencies within the Ministry of Justice and Security of the Netherlands Rob van Bokhoven emphasized that the aim of the training is to cultivate a mindset that prioritizes respect, care, and dignity in all interactions.
