The peaceful nature of the country has led to mass migration of people from all corners, including our sub-region. Some of whom now make Smiling Coast a permanent home.
Many also believe that the rising crime rate in the country is as a result of the composition of mix nationalities in the country.
Recently, the African Descendants at a presser, bemoaned on recent surge in violent crime against its community in the country, calling for stringent and proactive laws to protect them.
The move comes following series of attacks against their community members in the country and some proved to be fatal.
To allay the fears of those visiting and planning to visit the country, The Gambia Police Force (GPF) in recent release assured all visitors and residents of the safety and security of The Gambia.
The Gambia, they say, remains a safe and welcoming destination for visitors, with dedicated police units actively patrolling key areas to ensure public safety and respond swiftly to any emerging concerns.
It is important to state here that the Smiling Coast used to be one of the most peaceful countries in the whole of the sub-region. But that title is fast fading aways due to the rising crime in the country.
Nevertheless, people should understand that most of these crimes are committed by non-Gambians. Generally, Gambians are known for their peaceful and welcoming nature.
It’s one of the few countries if not the only country in the globe, where visitors are welcomed with open arms into our homes and invite them to have meals together.
In a nutshell, peace is a global concept that is more relevant than ever in today’s society.
This remind us about the importance of promoting a culture of peace, which many believe, can be fostered and promoted via education not only in large projects but also in everyday life.
Generally, culture of peace refers to lifestyles, belief patterns, values, behaviours, and it is high time as younger generation we nurture that peace and bring the country’s lost glory.
Peace is sacrosanct for any meaningful development to take place. Scholars have concluded that the culture of peace begins with oneself – unless people are ready to integrate peace and non-violence as part of ‘our daily existence’.
In as much as we want peace in this country, it will be an elusive dream if we left it to The Gambia Police Force alone. We all have a stake in making and serving as police to make The Gambia a safe haven.
Also, community policing is key and there is need for all of us to work closely with key stakeholders from the tourism stakeholders, local communities, and security agencies to maintain peace and stability across the country.
Let’s always remember that the Gambia is what we have and no body will come from outside to maintain peace in The Gambia. So the onus lies on us. Together we can bring back the country’s lost glory.