The event attracted both Councils and Municipal Police from Banjul, Kanifing, and Brikama. It also exposed participants to Sexual and Gender-based Violence (SGBV), and relevant legal frameworks to strengthen rights-based law enforcement at the local level.
The training was designed in a such a way that it will significantly arm participants with the requisite knowledge and practical skills necessary to enable them effectively perform their duties while upholding human rights standards.
Emmanuel D. Joof, chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission, underscored the importance of the training, describing it as ‘timely and crucial’ as the country moves forward in strengthening its legal framework for protecting women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
He made reference to the key laws such as the Children’s Act, the Women’s Act, the Persons with Disabilities Act, and the recently enacted Criminal Offences Act 2025, which he said, introduces stricter penalties for SGBV and modernises the penal system.
“As municipal and area council police officers, you are not only enforcers of the law but also daily partners with the public in your localities,” Joof said.
“This responsibility requires professionalism, gender sensitivity, and respect for the fundamental rights of all citizens.” He further emphasised the need to rebuild public trust in law enforcement following past abuses revealed by the TRRC.
Sunkung Danso, representing ChildFund and UNFPA, Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist reaffirmed his organisation’s commitment to child protection.
He explained that ChildFund has worked in The Gambia since 1984 to safeguard children from harm, stressing that community structures play a critical role in creating a safe environment. “This training is essential because it strengthens the capacity of municipal police to understand child protection issues and the relevant laws,” he said, urging participants to take the sessions seriously.
Also speaking, Ebou Ndella Mboob, Commissioner of the Kanifing Municipal Police, welcomed the initiative, expressing optimism that the capacity building forum would enhance the effectiveness of municipal and council police in carrying out their responsibilities.
“This is a big opportunity for us to improve our work and share the knowledge with colleagues who could not attend.” he said.
At the end of the training, participants are expected to develop gender-sensitive and child-friendly approaches especially in identifying, handling, and referring cases of child abuse and SGBV, thus reducing secondary victimisation and fostering a more protective environment for survivors.
