The purpose of the tour is for the CDS to communicate his vision and have direct conversations with troops under his command to gather first-hand information about their working and living conditions. The CDS will also meet with representatives of sister security services, community and religious leaders, as well as relevant stakeholders, to engage them constructively on the need to maintain and sustain peace.
Commander Bah highlighted that their unit is currently facing challenges as they are experiencing a shortage of personnel, which he said is affecting the efficiency of their operations and their ability to maintain a consistent and effective security presence.
He also talked about the need to increase training programmes to enhance the skills and competencies of military personnel, particularly in VIP protection, convoy operations, and responding to new and varied threats.
He added that they are also facing logistical constraints that are limiting their troops. According to him, they lack troop-carrying vehicles, as well as operational equipment such as raincoats and communication gadgets among a host of others.
OC Bah expressed concern that these constraints could hinder their operational readiness and effectiveness if not addressed. As a result, he requested collaboration and assistance from headquarters.
CDS Mamat O. Cham acknowledged the challenges raised and mentioned that the only limitation would be the things they don't have./things that the country does not have.
However, he assured them that they would be provided with the best of whatever resources they need to fulfil their duties, as the significance of the state guard battalion cannot be overstated.
CSD Cham promised to provide comprehensive training to soldiers, including capacity building. He emphasised the importance of incorporating technological advancements, such as installing cameras for security surveillance to mitigate future border conflicts and road accidents. Specifically, he highlighted the significance of safe driving practices to prevent unnecessary accidents.
Cham stressed the importance of preserving lives, emphasising that “soldiers and drivers must prioritise their safety to effectively carry out their duties and protect the country's sovereignty. He added that measures will be implemented to ensure that drivers receive the necessary training to enhance their competence to safeguard themselves and others.
CDS Cham advised the soldiers that they are not in competition with each other sister security, saying their job is to safeguard the people of The Gambia. He revealed that they are working on providing accommodations for soldiers, saying private investors would be involved to ensure that they have a good standard of living.
He finally disclosed that the Terms of Duty (TOD) would soon be signed to increase their earnings and encourage them to engage in agriculture by growing rice and vegetables to support both the military’s economy as well as the nation.
CSD Cham promised to provide comprehensive training to soldiers, including capacity building. He emphasised the importance of incorporating technological advancements, such as installing cameras for security surveillance to mitigate future border conflicts and road accidents. Specifically, he highlighted the significance of safe driving practices to prevent unnecessary accidents.
Cham stressed the importance of preserving lives, emphasising that “soldiers and drivers must prioritise their safety to effectively carry out their duties and protect the country's sovereignty. He added that measures will be implemented to ensure that drivers receive the necessary training to enhance their competence to safeguard themselves and others.
CDS Cham advised the soldiers that they are not in competition with each other sister security, saying their job is to safeguard the people of The Gambia. He revealed that they are working on providing accommodations for soldiers, saying private investors would be involved to ensure that they have a good standard of living.
He finally disclosed that the Terms of Duty (TOD) would soon be signed to increase their earnings and encourage them to engage in agriculture by growing rice and vegetables to support both the military’s economy as well as the nation.
