(BANJUL, The Gambia) – Lieutenant General Mamad O.A. Cham, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), has concluded a comprehensive tour of military installations and facilities across The Gambia. The visit, which marks the first of its kind since his appointment, aimed to assess the conditions and challenges faced by the armed forces and foster direct communication with the troops.

CDS Cham’s tour began in Banjul, where he met with personnel at several key locations, including the State Guard Battalion at the State House, the Naval Command Base, and the Joint Services Headquarters. During these visits, he was briefed on various operational challenges, particularly those concerning capacity building, logistics, and equipment shortages.

At the State House, Guard Commander Abdoulie Bah provided an update on the battalion’s situation, highlighting the pressing issues of manpower shortages and logistical constraints. “Our current personnel strength is below the optimal level required for efficient operations,” Commander Bah reported. Despite these challenges, he assured that the battalion remains committed to its duties.

In response, CDS Cham praised the dedication and high morale of the troops, emphasizing the importance of capacity building to enhance confidence and cooperation within the armed forces. He assured the officers that their concerns have been noted and will be addressed. “We want to build capacity. If you have capacity, you have confidence. If you have confidence, then you can share and cooperate,” CDS Cham stated.

The tour also included a visit to the Naval Command Base, a critical component of the country’s defense infrastructure. Here, Lieutenant Commodore Fara Jobe outlined the severe challenges facing the Navy, including inadequate equipment, lack of promotions, and a critical water shortage that affects the daily operations and overall readiness of the naval personnel. “Water shortage and inadequate reservoirs at the naval command significantly impact operations, including the maintenance and cleaning of vessels, as well as essential functions like drinking and cooking,” Jobe explained.

National Security Advisor Aboubacarr Sulayman Jeng, who accompanied the CDS, commended Lieutenant General Cham for his leadership. He conveyed President Adama Barrow’s commitment to improving the working conditions of the armed forces. “The President places a premium on your working and living conditions, particularly accommodation,” Jeng reassured the troops.

The tour concluded with a meeting at the Joint Security Services in Banjul, where CDS Cham reiterated his commitment to addressing the challenges faced by the armed forces. Officers bid farewell to the Army Chief with renewed confidence, hopeful that their concerns would soon be resolved.

The visit underscored the vital role of the armed forces in maintaining national security and stability. Lieutenant General Cham’s tour not only highlighted the critical issues facing the military but also reinforced the commitment of the country’s leadership to enhancing the welfare and operational efficiency of the troops.