By Makutu Manneh
Gambian soldiers stationed across the country have called on the authorities to provide them with basic military equipment and improve their living conditions. The appeal was made during a nationwide tour by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lieutenant General Mamat O. Cham, who visited several military installations from Monday to Wednesday, May 14, 2025.
The military posts visited include Njongon, Kerr Pateh, Farafenni, Kerr Ayip border post, Lamin Koto, Basse, and Fatato. In each of these camps, soldiers echoed similar concerns, requesting essential items such as patrol vehicles, new uniforms, combat boots, communication devices, fencing for their camps, and improved housing facilities. They also raised issues related to allowances and rent fees.
In his response, CDS Cham acknowledged the concerns of the soldiers and urged patience, noting the country’s limited resources. “The country is not endowed, but we are doing everything possible to provide the soldiers with what they need,” he said.
He assured the troops that new patrol vehicles would be dispatched once the delegation returns to Banjul. Specifically, in Kerr Pateh, he pledged that the land donated by villagers would be fenced, and accommodation facilities would be constructed. “We will work towards elevating your concerns. A soldier’s camp is not a five-star hotel,” he stated, adding that the absence of vehicles should not hinder their duties.
CDS Cham further informed the soldiers that new uniforms and combat boots had already been donated and would soon be distributed. He emphasised that priority would be given to fencing the camps that currently lack security enclosures.
Addressing the issue of allowances and remuneration, Cham said the pay for military personnel has been improved under a new Terms and Conditions of Service (TACOS), but full implementation would take time due to financial constraints. “A new TACOS is in place, but it cannot be implemented all at once because of resource constraints. The whole budget cannot go to the armed forces while other sectors are neglected,” he explained.
He said implementation would be phased and based on affordability, with pay linked to the soldier’s posting. Cham also noted that it would be unfair for soldiers living in government quarters to expect additional allowances such as house rent and transport. “Gradually, every soldier and every officer will receive increased pay in line with the economic realities of the country,” he assured.
He reiterated the military’s commitment to building more accommodations and improving overall welfare, stating, “This is an undertaking we owe to you.”
CDS Cham urged soldiers to remain patient and disciplined, reminding them of the proper channels through which grievances should be expressed. He discouraged murmuring and complaints outside the chain of command.
He also encouraged continuous self-development among the ranks and reiterated that promotions would be merit-based. “Positions will be given to soldiers who can perform the functions,” he concluded.
