The Director General of the Gambia Immigration Department (GID), Mr Ebrima Mboob, accompanied by Commissioners Famara Fadera and Hatab Bojang, undertook an official study visit to Germany from 12 to 16 October 2026 as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen border management, security cooperation and institutional capacity.
The visit provided the GID delegation with a valuable opportunity to engage with their German counterparts and gain first-hand insight into Germany's border management and security systems.
During a series of high-level meetings and technical exchanges, both sides shared expertise on organisational structures, operational responsibilities and security procedures, with particular focus on border control, investigations and police support functions.
As part of the programme, the delegation visited Berlin Brandenburg Airport, where they observed airport security operations and received briefings on security protocols and border management procedures. The delegation also toured the headquarters of the German Federal Police (Bundespolizei), where discussions centred on forensic science, biometric systems and document examination techniques used in combating transnational crime and document fraud.
The visit further featured a meeting between the Directors General of the Gambia Immigration Department and the Bundespolizei, during which both parties reviewed areas of mutual interest and explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation.
According to the GID, the study tour is expected to significantly enhance the Department's operational capacity as it seeks to adopt and integrate relevant best practices observed during the visit. Key areas identified include the fight against document fraud, the use of biometric technologies and the strengthening of airport security systems.
The visit also provided the Department's senior leadership with a unique opportunity to observe and learn from Germany's experiences in managing modern border security challenges. The knowledge and insights gained are expected to contribute meaningfully to ongoing efforts to strengthen border management and national security in The Gambia, while supporting the professional development and capacity-building of immigration officers.
Officials believe the lessons drawn from the study visit will play an important role in advancing the GID's mission of maintaining secure borders, facilitating lawful migration and enhancing national security through improved operational effectiveness and international cooperation.
