Opening Remarks for the UN Resident Coordinator in The Gambia at the launch of the project: Sustaining the Gambia’s Peaceful Transition by Supporting Implementation of the Security Sector Reform (SSR) Strategy

• Madam Secretary General and Head of the Civil Service, represented here by the Permanent Secretary Mr. Pateh Jah
• Senior Government officials
• Heads of Agencies of the UN
• Civil Society Organizations
• Representatives from Ministries, Departments and Agencies
• Members of the Media

Distinguished guests, esteemed UN colleagues, and honoured partners, good morning and welcome to the launch of this pivotal project—Sustaining The Gambia’s Peaceful Transition by Supporting Implementation of the Security Sector Reform Strategy.

I want each one of us to take a moment and imagine a Gambia where every citizen feels safe and protected, where our security forces are seen not as intimidating figures, but as trusted guardians of peace and human rights. This isn't just a dream – it's the future we're building together through this crucial project. But we must act now. I stand before you not just as the UN Resident Coordinator, but as someone personally committed to seeing this vision become reality. 

As we gather here today, we recognize that the overarching goal of this project to build strong, accountable, and effective security institutions that safeguard the human rights and aspirations of the Gambian people. In a post-transition period, our commitment to these ideals is especially crucial for conflict prevention and sustaining peace. Together with the Government of The Gambia, we embark on this journey to ensure that security sector reform is not only about strengthening institutions but also about enhancing the relationship between security actors and the citizens they serve.

The SSR project, made possible through the generous contribution of $3 million from the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), embodies a collaborative effort between the UN, the government and Civil Society. Together, we are committed to supporting the people of The Gambia in creating security institutions that are not only effective and accountable but also grounded in the principles of human rights and gender inclusivity.

This project adopts a human-rights-based approach that recognizes individuals as rights-holders and the state, including core security actors, as duty-bearers responsible for delivering security as a service to the people. It emphasizes the crucial fact that human rights and security are deeply interconnected, with violations often serving as potential precursors to conflict. By building capacity and fostering accountability, we will not only enhance the effectiveness of our security institutions but also restore public trust and confidence in these vital entities.

Recognizing The Gambia's commitment to regional and international human rights instruments, we understand the responsibility that lies upon our security sector actors: to respect and uphold human rights in all their operations. In this regard, we are dedicated to addressing key challenges -such as weak legislative frameworks, inadequate representation of women in decision-making roles, and the need for improved accountability mechanisms—all of which are crucial to fostering a more secure and equitable society.

This project builds on the remarkable gains from The Gambia's peaceful transition, continuing our collective momentum through the implementation of the Security Sector Strategy (2023-2027). In doing so, we draw inspiration from past interventions and recognize that sustainable change is only possible through coordinated efforts among government partners, security institutions, civil society organizations, and the communities they serve.

The collaborative spirit of this initiative is exemplified by our engagement with various stakeholders, including civil society organizations and marginalized groups, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs addressed. The establishment of Civil-Security Committees as part of the project’s initiatives will enable structured dialogue, enhancing trust between communities and security forces—a vital step toward collective peace and stability.

As we move forward, we do so with the profound belief that our shared responsibilities—to the people we serve, to the future we envision, and to the values we uphold—will guide our collaboration. We are here not just to work alongside one another but to empower each other, recognizing that together, we can pave the way for a democratic process characterized by integrity, trust, and respect for human rights.

Distinguished Ladies & Gentlemen,

In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each of you for your unwavering commitment to this important endeavour. Let us embrace this opportunity to work not just as separate entities, but as one unified force striving for a more peaceful, just, and inclusive Gambia.

Thank you.