Gambiaj.com – (Fajara, The Gambia) – The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) on Wednesday concluded a month-long Counter-Terrorism Training of Trainers (TOT) Course for 21 personnel of the Gambia National Army (GNA), marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s security and tactical preparedness.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Gambia Armed Forces Training School (GAFTS) in Fajara, was presided over by Commander of the GNA, Brigadier General Sait Njie. The intensive training aimed to build tactical and instructional capacity among battalion-level instructors to effectively train troops and respond to modern security threats.

In his keynote address, Major Abdoulie Secka, Commandant of GAFTS, praised the graduates for their resilience and commitment during the rigorous physical, mental, and professional drills.

He encouraged them to view the training not as an endpoint but as the beginning of their roles as frontline trainers, emphasizing the need to pass on their knowledge to fellow soldiers.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, Brigadier General Njie expressed confidence in the quality and depth of the training received.

He stressed that the skills learned were both theoretically sound and practically applicable, underscoring their importance in boosting the GNA’s overall readiness and counter-terrorism capabilities.

Brigadier General Njie also extended gratitude to the GNA Headquarters, GAFTS, 1 Infantry Battalion, and the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG) for their steadfast support throughout the training.

The event concluded with the awarding of certificates to all 21 participants. Special recognition was given to the top three graduates, who received Certificates of Merit for their outstanding performance during the course.

The TOT initiative is expected to have a multiplier effect across the ranks of the GNA, enhancing national defense strategies in an increasingly complex security landscape.