By Kebba AF Touray
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defense and Security has reported serious shortcomings in security installations across the country, citing poor infrastructure, lack of equipment, and declining morale among officers.
The report was presented in parliament on Thursday, September 18, 2025, by Hon. Almameh Gibba, the Member for Foni Kansala. The findings followed an oversight mission the committee conducted between April 22 and 27, 2025, across security facilities in the North Bank, Central River, Upper River, and Lower River Regions. The exercise was carried out under sections 102 and 109 of the 1997 Constitution and the Standing Orders of the National Assembly.
The committee said the tour gave it first-hand insights into the conditions in which officers live and work, as well as the institutional challenges that affect service delivery, welfare, and operational readiness.
On staffing and welfare, Mr. Gibba said almost all facilities are under-staffed, leading to “excessive workloads, delayed service delivery, and low morale, and accommodation is inadequate, rent allowances are insufficient, and officers frequently pay out of pocket for meals, uniforms, and detainee upkeep.”
On infrastructure, he noted that many facilities are dilapidated, lacking ventilation, clean water, secure fencing, and essential amenities. Offices, he said, often operate without adequate furniture, electricity, or designated space, and “some agencies are compelled to share premises with others.”
The report also highlighted operational gaps, pointing to the absence of computers, printers, communication equipment, medical supplies, weapons, and protective gear. Mr. Gibba said vehicles are often non-functional, fuel allocations are insufficient, and feeding programs are grossly inadequate.
On safety and security, he reported that installations lack perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, and emergency medical support, adding that “many barracks and posts are vulnerable to breaches, while poor community relations in some areas further limit intelligence gathering and cooperation.”
He also cited health and nutrition concerns, saying kitchens and sanitation facilities “are in disrepair, leading to unhygienic conditions, insufficient nutrition, and increased risks of disease outbreaks. Medical drugs and equipment remain severely inadequate.”
Mr. Gibba said the cumulative effect of these challenges is declining morale, reduced operational readiness, and erosion of public confidence in security institutions.
In response, the committee outlined a series of recommendations. “The Committee recommends urgent and coordinated reforms, emphasizing welfare improvement, infrastructure rehabilitation, and operational efficiency,” he said.
On renovation and construction, he said this would ensure that “the living quarters, offices, kitchens, and sanitation facilities are safe, hygienic, and provides dignified working environments for the officers.”
On modern equipment, the committee recommended strengthening officers with weapons, protective gear, computers, printers, and communication tools “to strengthen and ensure operational readiness.”
On logistics, he said there is a need to provide vehicles, sufficient fuel, and regular fleet maintenance.
On medical needs, he said consistent drug supplies, properly equipped clinics, and ambulances for emergencies are essential.
He also called for annual uniform distribution, which should “include boots and protective clothing to enhance professionalism and safety.”
On feeding and allowances, he said there is a need for improved food rations, better kitchen infrastructure, and allowances aligned with cost-of-living realities.
The report also urged stronger community engagement initiatives “to rebuild trust and enhance intelligence sharing between security forces and local populations.”
The oversight mission concluded that while security personnel show strong commitment despite challenges, the institutions themselves are overstretched, under-resourced, and ill-equipped.
“These systemic weaknesses undermine both efficiency and morale, and if left unaddressed, risk compromising the sovereignty, peace, and stability of The Gambia,” the report said.
The committee urged the Executive and relevant ministries to adopt the recommendations quickly and ensure that future budget allocations prioritize welfare, infrastructure, and operational capacity. It also pledged continued legislative oversight.
“Only by addressing these challenges decisively can The Gambia build a professional, resilient, and people-centered security sector capable of safeguarding the nation and earning public trust,” Mr. Gibba said.
