By Makutu Manneh
The Gambia Armed Forces (GAF) on Wednesday graduated 351 new recruits during a passing out parade held at McCarthy Square in Banjul.
The ceremony was presided over by President Adama Barrow, who attended in full military uniform. The event featured military drills, a parade by the new soldiers, and musical performances by the GAF band.
In his address, President Barrow said the ceremony marked an important chapter in the country’s ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and service to the Republic.
“You have demonstrated the resilience, discipline, and mental fortitude required to transition from civilian life into the professional ranks of the GAF,” the president told the graduates. He described military service as a noble and honourable calling that demands loyalty, courage, and an unwavering sense of duty.
Barrow reminded the recruits that they are now defenders of the country’s territorial integrity and guardians of its democratic values. He also highlighted the growing complexity of global security threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, transnational crime, and climate-related challenges.
In response to these threats, the president said his government is committed to transforming the armed forces into a modern, professional, and well-resourced institution. He pledged continued investment in infrastructure, training, logistics, equipment, and personnel welfare.
Chief of Defence Staff Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham commended the new soldiers for their hard work and dedication during training.
“As you march forward into service, I call upon you to embody and uphold the core pillars of my command philosophy — capacity, cooperation, and confidence,” Cham said.
He reaffirmed that the GAF operates under the command of the legally constituted civilian leadership and that the soldiers’ allegiance must remain to the Republic of The Gambia and its people.
