The Office of National Security (ONS) convene a robust discussion with representatives from the Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) regarding the implementing of the National Security Sector Coordination Model (NSSCM) for The Gambia’s security services, on Wednesday, 25 July 2024. The meeting took place at the ONS Headquarters State House, Banjul.
On behalf of the Office of National Security (ONS), the National Security Adviser (NSA), Abubakarr Suleiman Jeng, expressed sincere gratitude and appreciation to Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance (DCAF) for the ongoing support it provides to ONS and the security institutions in The Gambia.
The meeting was constructive and specific important Security Sector Reform activities were discussed such as the National Security Sector Coordination Model (NSCM), development of generic Gender Mainstreaming Policy for the Security Institutions in The Gambia, and the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the NSSCM. The SOP is key and is required to formalize the necessary process of implementing a robust NSCM in-line with the National Security Architecture for The Gambia.
Additionally, the development of a generic Gender Mainstreaming Policy to cover the entire security institution, draws reference from the already existing policies developed for The Gambia Police Force and the Gambia Immigration Department. This generic policy will serve as a blueprint for the development of an implementation framework on gender mainstreaming across the security institutions.
The two representatives from DCAF, Mr. Ken Isaac DCAF Head of Office, Banjul, and Chief Superintendent of Police Foday Fofana on their part expressed delight for the coordination and strong partnership between DCAF and ONS. They highlighted that a collaborative approach is needed to develop the National Security Sector Coordination Model, aimed at bolstering the country’s security response capabilities and DCAF is proud to be associated with this venture.
The ongoing collaboration, coordination and partnership between ONS and DCAF marks a significant step in the ongoing reforms, restructuring and institutional development of the security institutions.