On the 9th of October,2024, the Office of National Security (ONS) hosted a session at the State House on arms and ammunition management, led by National Security Adviser Muhammed Krubally and Ebrima Savage, Head of Small Arms at the UN Institute for Disarmament. Discussions focused on the UN and ECOWAS baseline assessment, which evaluates member states’ capacity and procedures in arms management, identifying best practices, challenges, and gaps.
The meeting highlighted 10 key procedures for Weapons and Ammunition Management (WAM), including national management, legal frameworks, stockpile management, and arms destruction. Participants also addressed concerns about craft weapon production and border control.
The Gambia’s commitment to these initiatives was reaffirmed, and a roadmap for developing the National Commission on Small Arms (NATCOM) was introduced to enhance its structure. The roadmap will attract donor interest and be featured in the UN Secretary-General’s report, bolstering The Gambia’s international standing.