Gambiaj.com – (FATICK, Senegal) – Senegal has officially set in motion its 8th military contingent for the ECOWAS mission in The Gambia also called ECOMIG, marking a continued effort to support regional peace and security. In a ceremonial handover in Toubacouta, Colonel Gabriel Pathé Tine, commander of the contingent, received the national flag of Senegal from the Chief of Staff of the Army (CEMAT). This flag will serve as a symbol of their commitment as they embark on their mission in The Gambia.

Speaking at the ceremony, Colonel Tine emphasized the significance of the mission, describing the Senegalese flag as a “standard in our hearts,” and underscoring that all efforts during the deployment will be aimed at honoring Senegal. The primary goal of the mission, he explained, is to protect civilian populations and their property, while reinforcing a spirit of peace.

“The mission is to participate in the protection of populations and their property and, above all, to strengthen the spirit of peace that is deeply rooted in the minds of all,” said Colonel Tine. “Everything we will do is to honor Senegal.”

The 618-member contingent has been fully briefed on the challenges that await them in The Gambia. Colonel Tine acknowledged that the mission will not be without difficulties, particularly in ensuring that the presence of ECOWAS forces is accepted by local communities. However, he expressed determination to meet these challenges head-on.

“We will work with the Gambian Security Forces (FDS) to combat anything that stands in the way of peace,” he stated. The ECOWAS mission in The Gambia has been instrumental in stabilizing the country since the political crisis of 2016-2017, which saw former President Yahya Jammeh refuse to relinquish power after losing the presidential election to Adama Barrow. The ECOWAS military intervention, largely led by Senegal, was pivotal in facilitating Jammeh’s eventual departure and ensuring a peaceful transition of power.

Since then, Senegalese forces have remained in The Gambia as part of a broader ECOWAS mandate to ensure continued stability. Their role includes working with Gambian forces to address issues such as organized crime, border security, and the preservation of peace in the region.

The deployment of this 8th contingent reaffirms Senegal’s commitment to regional peace and security under the ECOWAS framework. The mission also reflects ECOWAS’s ongoing efforts to bolster regional cooperation and address security threats in West Africa.

As the contingent embarks on this mission, Colonel Tine’s words echo the importance of their work: “Our presence in Gambia is not without difficulties, but we are determined to protect peace and the interests of the population, in collaboration with our Gambian counterparts.“