GAF appoints new spokesperson

The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) has officially announced the appointment of Major Malick Sanyang as its new Director of Press and Public Relations, effective October 23, 2025. The move marks a significant milestone in Major Sanyang’s distinguished military and communications career, spanning over a decade of service to the nation.

Major Sanyang steps into the role with a wealth of experience in both operational command and strategic communications. Prior to his appointment, he served in various capacities including Acting Director and Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations, Military Assistant to the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, and Post Commander under Operation Tiger Watch. His early career also saw him instructing officer cadets at the GAF Training School and commanding a platoon at the 1 Infantry

Sanyang’s resume includes notable international deployments. In Darfur, Sudan, he served with GAMCOY-19 as Operations, Training, and CIMIC Officer, where he led impactful community outreach efforts such as equipping a women and children’s clinic in El-Fasher. He later headed the Community Policing and Reform Team at the UNMISS Protection of Civilians Site in Malakal, South Sudan, demonstrating leadership in civilian protection and stabilization.

His participation in multinational exercises and symposia—such as Exercise Gulf Shield I in Saudi Arabia, the Islamic Coalition Counter-Terrorism Symposium in Riyadh, and Exercise Shared Accord in Rwanda under US AFRICOM—underscores his role in representing GAF on the global stage.

Renowned for his public speaking skills, Major Sanyang has emceed several high-profile national events, including The Gambia’s Golden Jubilee Independence Celebration and the 2022 Presidential Inauguration of President Adama Barrow. As Editor-In-Chief of Ahooah Magazine, he has conducted exclusive interviews and produced editorial content that bridges military and civilian narratives.

His leadership in strategic communication was evident during recent clashes between the MFDC and Senegalese Armed Forces, where he facilitated safe and transparent media coverage along the Foni-Casamance border 

Major Sanyang is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in International Relations and Diplomacy at the University of The Gambia, where he previously earned a BSc in Political Science. His military education began at Fort Benning (now Fort Moore) in the United States, where he completed the Infantry Basic Officer Leadership Course.

He has also completed specialized training in civil–military coordination, protection of civilians, and public information, with certifications from institutions in Mali, Kenya, Ghana, and The Gambia. His affiliations include the Public Relations Association of The Gambia and representation at the African Public Relations Association Conference in Cameroon.

Major Sanyang’s editorial contributions to Ahooah Magazine—spanning over ten editions—have been instrumental in shaping GAF’s public image and fostering dialogue on national security reporting. His efforts have brought together journalists, civil society leaders, and military officials to promote transparency and collaborative discourse.

With his appointment, Major Sanyang is expected to further enhance the Armed Forces’ communication strategy, reinforce transparency, and deepen public engagement. His blend of operational experience, international exposure, and media acumen positions him as a pivotal figure in shaping the narrative of GAF in the years ahead.

The Gambia Armed Forces has expressed full confidence in Major Sanyang’s leadership and wished him success in his new role.