Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In response to the growing threat of terrorism across the world, including in West Africa, the Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC) Centre in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), has launched a 15-day counter-terrorism training program in The Gambia.
The initiative seeks to enhance the operational capacity of personnel from both the Gambia Armed Forces and the Gambia Police Force by equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills crucial for combating terrorism and violent extremism.
Terrorism continues to pose a major global challenge, undermining peace, stability, and national security in many countries. Against this backdrop, The Gambia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its defense and security preparedness.
Gambia Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Minister of Defence, Hon. Baboucarr O. Joof, highlighted the importance of bolstering national and regional security frameworks.
“We live in an era where terrorism and violent extremism pose significant threats not only to national security but also to regional stability and global peace. No nation, regardless of its size or resources, is immune to these threats,” Minister Joof said.
He emphasized that The Gambia remains dedicated to safeguarding its citizens and contributing to peace and security in the region.
“Hosting this training underlines our commitment to equipping our security forces with the requisite knowledge, skills, and strategic perspectives necessary to confront modern threats,” he added.
The minister extended appreciation to IMCTC for its partnership and support, encouraging participants to approach the training with dedication, noting that the outcome will directly impact the safety and security of the nation.
IMCTC Commends The Gambia’s Role
Representing the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Major General Mohammed bin Saeed Al-Moghedi, Secretary General of IMCTC, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to cooperation and collective action.
“Terrorism knows no borders and threatens the security and stability of societies everywhere,” he said.
He noted that The Gambia’s participation and leadership in IMCTC reflect its active contribution to international peace and security efforts.
Major General Al-Moghedi highlighted that the Counter-Terrorism Military Training Program, known as the ‘Competence’ Initiative, aims to enhance the skills of security personnel, encourage knowledge exchange, and unify operational strategies among member states.
He added that this forms part of a broader IMCTC framework consisting of 15 strategic initiatives covering ideology, communications, counter-terrorism financing, and military preparedness.
The 15-day training brings together members of the Gambia Armed Forces and the Gambia Police Force and forms part of ongoing efforts to improve the country’s readiness in countering emerging security threats.
