The training aims to strengthen the capacity of CSOs to effectively engage in and contribute to ongoing reforms in The Gambia’s security sector, with a strong emphasis on accountability, inclusivity, and respect for human rights. Supported by international partners including the OHCHR, UNDP, and other United Nations agencies, the initiative reaffirms global commitment to The Gambia’s reform journey.
Speaking at the opening session, Sang Mendy, Human Rights Officer at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), stressed the importance of learning from past global failures and promoting unity.
“We must learn from past failures and protect lives by rejecting hate and rhetoric that incites violence,” he said, adding that the remembrance of past atrocities should inspire collective responsibility to prevent future ones.
Mendy highlighted that SSR is not only about policies and legal frameworks but fundamentally about people. He called for the building of strong, transparent, and accountable institutions that are inclusive and responsive to all citizens, particularly women, youth, persons with disabilities, and minority groups. He further underscored the need for conflict‑sensitive approaches and effective oversight mechanisms to ensure reforms foster trust, social cohesion, and sustainable peace.
Representing the ONS, Mulie Colley described CSOs as key partners in advancing the national reform agenda, noting that the training is part of a series of broader engagements aimed at enhancing collaboration between security institutions and civil society.
“CSOs are closer to the communities and are helping us to do our work. Building your capacity is long overdue,” Colley said, while acknowledging the support of development partners such as the UNDP.
Nfamara Jawuneh, Chairperson of the CSO Coalition on SSR, emphasised the critical role of civil society in The Gambia’s democratic transition. He noted that while the country has made significant progress since the change of government, challenges remain.
“Civil society organisations play a crucial role in advocating for accountability, transparency, and inclusivity in governance,” Jawuneh stated.
He explained that the coalition, established under the auspices of TANGO, serves as a platform for coordinated advocacy, capacity building, and monitoring of SSR processes to ensure alignment with democratic principles and human rights standards. Jawuneh outlined key objectives, including strengthening civil society engagement, building CSO capacity, fostering collaboration, and ensuring accountability in the implementation of reforms.
Encouraging participants to actively engage during the training, Jawuneh noted that a deeper understanding of SSR would enable CSOs to educate communities, advocate for reforms, and bridge the gap between citizens and security institutions.
