STATEMENT BY MS. SERAPHINE WAKANA HANDING OVER OF EQUIPMENT TO DLEAG

The Minister of Interior,

Director General DLEAG,

Permanent Secretaries,

UN Colleagues,

The Media,

Good Afternoon to you all.

It is with great pleasure that I stand here today for the formal handover of state-of-the-art forensics equipment to The Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency by The United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime (UNODC). Today’s inauguration recognises the partnership between DLEAG and UNODC.

The fight against drug trafficking, illicit drug production, and drug abuse requires the collaboration and joint efforts of all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, and international partners. The United Nations, through its various specialized agencies and programs, remains committed to supporting member states in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by the global drug problem.

Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen, The use of quality forensic science services, data and information is an essential element supporting the operational work of law enforcement, effective and fair criminal justice systems, and evidence-based policymaking in a fast-changing world.

Through its unique mandate, UNODC is working to support The Gambia in enhancing forensic science services and thus supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG16 and SDG17. 

Today's handover of forensics equipment is a testament to the UN's commitment to providing practical assistance and enhancing the capacity of national law enforcement agencies to investigate drug-related crimes effectively. The acquisition of these advanced tools will significantly bolster The Gambia DLEA's ability to conduct comprehensive forensic analysis, collect crucial evidence, and ultimately bring perpetrators to justice.

Furthermore, I would like to commend the Government of The Gambia for its unwavering commitment to addressing the drug problem within its borders. The collaboration between the Government and the UNODC reflects a strong partnership based on mutual trust and shared objectives. It is through such collaborative efforts that we can achieve meaningful and sustainable progress in combating drug-related crimes and safeguarding our societies.

I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the United Nations Office for Drugs and Crime for its continued support to The Gambia and its tireless efforts in the global fight against drugs. Your commitment to providing technical assistance, training, and resources to enhance the capacities of law enforcement agencies worldwide is commendable.

To the officials and staff of The Gambia Drug Law Enforcement Agency, I commend your dedication and professionalism in carrying out your critical mandate. The acquisition of this forensics equipment marks a significant milestone in your journey towards combating drug-related crimes effectively. I encourage you to make the best use of these resources, applying them with integrity, and continuing to work diligently to protect the well-being and security of the Gambian people.

In conclusion, let us acknowledge that today's handover of forensics equipment is not the end but rather a new beginning in our shared pursuit of a world free from illicit drugs. The United Nations will remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting the prevention of drug abuse, supporting treatment and rehabilitation programs, and fostering international cooperation in this vital endeavor and ending transnational crimes.

I thank you all for your kind attentio