This milestone is part of a strategic effort to improve training and enhance the army’s abilities to handle evolving threats.
The graduation ceremony, which took place at the Gambia Armed Forces Training School (GAFTS), marked the completion of a demanding four-week course for 21 service members from various GNA units.
This initiative, launched under the guidance of the army’s leadership, aims to train experts who can teach vital counter-terrorism skills across the entire force.
Speaking to graduates, Brigadier General Sait Njie, the leader of the GNA, noted that the training marks a shift from previous methods. “In the past, each battalion trained separately, but this year, we conducted collective training to pool our resources,” he stated.
He mentioned that this success could lead to the creation of a dedicated Infantry School in the future, he added.
He linked the training to the rising instability in the Sahel region, emphasising the urgency of preparing for potential threats.
He expressed confidence that the graduates understood both the theoretical and practical aspects of counter-terrorism.
Highlighting his visit to the training, General Njie praised the determination and skills of the students and the dedication of both Gambian instructors and international experts, particularly from Nigeria.
He also acknowledged the need for better equipment and facilities for future training.
General Njie defined counter-terrorism as a combination of awareness and adaptability, highlighting the necessity for regular and realistic training to tackle changing threats.
The General concluded by sharing his vision for a well-trained and motivated army capable of defending the nation from any threats, a key focus since he took command in 2023.
Equally, Abdoulie Seck, the commander at GAFTS, stressed the importance of the program, highlighting how terrorism can affect nations around the world.
He encouraged the graduates to take on leadership roles in their units and to be active agents of change.
Commander Seck reaffirmed GAFTS’s commitment to developing its personnel, aligning with the overall goals of the Gambia Armed Forces.
Both leaders emphasised the important role these graduates will play in their units, as they will now be responsible for organising and leading training sessions.
The graduation of these first-ever counter-terrorism instructors marks a significant step towards strengthening The Gambia’s defence against global security challenges. The newly qualified instructors will now work to share essential skills throughout the army, enhancing the country’s ability to respond to threats in an increasingly unstable region.
