The Child Protection Alliance (CPA) on Tuesday concluded a four-day training for 30 security personnel from the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), the Gambia Police Force and the Immigration Department, on child rights and child protection.

The training was specifically meant for officers serving as instructors in the security training schools, for them to transmit the skills and knowledge gained to their trainees.It was held at the Gambia Armed Forces Training School at the Fajara Barracks in Bakau.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, Njundu Drammeh, national coordinator of CPA, said the training is meant to enhance the capacity of the participants in dealing with children. He expressed hope that the participants will also filter down the knowledge gained to the trainees in each of the earlier mentioned security units’ training schools.  

He assured the participants of the CPA’s support and collaboration and urged them to share the knowledge acquired from the training with their colleagues. “Our doors are always open; we will be more than willing to come and support you,” he assured. For his part, Lieutenant Colonel Kawsu Sanyang of the Gambia Armed Forces, on behalf of the chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of GAF, said the security training schools are the key holders to the security services; that whoever is enrolled in the services, must pass through one of the security training schools.

According to him, a careful selection has been done in the security service for those who will be sensitized on child rights issues. He however warned the security officers not to use the uniform on the pretext of protection whilst  abusing the rights of children. “Children are supposed to be protected,” he said.

Ebrima Sama Corr, permanent secretary at the Ministry of Interior, stated that the training is designed to protect and nurture the well being of the future generation of this great country. He commended the CPA for the laudable initiative, adding that the security forces of this country constitute a formidable component in implementing government’s efforts in children’s protection and welbeing.

“The government of The Gambia through its diverse strategies has given priority to the welfare of children, as in line with its Vision 2020 blue print, and Poverty Reduction Strategy Plans (PRSP) I and II. He assured of the government’s resolve to continue protecting children at all times. Sub-Inspector Babucarr Njie of the Gambia Police Force delivered the vote of thanks.