Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, THE GAMBIA) – The Gambia Immigration Department (GID) has formally incorporated a maternity uniform into its official dress code, allowing pregnant female officers to remain on duty in approved attire throughout their pregnancy.
The uniform was worn by female officers on Thursday, 12 November 2026, marking its transition from a public presentation to everyday use within the Department. It was first unveiled during the passing-out parade of Intake 16 on 4 August 2026.
The adoption provides pregnant officers with an approved alternative to the standard uniform, which may become unsuitable as pregnancy progresses. It also addresses a challenge faced by women in uniformed services, where the absence of appropriate maternity clothing can force pregnant officers to wear civilian clothes or leave active duty earlier than necessary.
The initiative follows mixed reactions on social media when the uniform was first presented. However, its formal adoption signals the Department’s recognition of pregnancy as a normal part of an officer’s career rather than a reason to compromise her professional identity or workplace participation.
The policy also reflects a broader approach to workplace inclusion, recognizing that female officers can simultaneously fulfill their professional responsibilities and navigate the demands of motherhood.
The maternity uniform forms part of wider institutional reforms undertaken by the GID since 2017 to strengthen gender equality, human rights and professional standards.
These measures include the establishment of a Gender Unit and a Human Rights and Professional Standards Unit, alongside the adoption of a Gender Mainstreaming Policy and a Policy on Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse.
The Department says the reforms are aimed at building a professional immigration service that protects the dignity and well-being of its personnel, recognizing that institutional effectiveness depends partly on the support provided to the men and women serving within its ranks.
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