The National Dialogue Workshop on the Security Sector Reform (SSR) and Governance for stakeholders was convened on Wednesday at Bakadagi Hotel in Kololi. The three-day meeting will focus on the National Security engagement with civil society groups.
In his address, National Security Adviser (NSA) Aboubacarr S. Jeng announced that the platform to be set up will give civil society representatives, security institutions representatives and his Office the opportunity to “engage in meaningful discussions on the SSR and thereby leverage on its prospects, identify challenges that may potentially impede progress, and thus chart way in the successful implementation of this important program.”
The SSR has gradually been taking shape since its launching in 2017. The initiative was highly welcomed by Gambians as security forces used in the past different forms of violence, amounting to arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and extra-judicial killings.
While acknowledging that inclusivity is cardinal, the NSA reminded the gathering that his Office is “mandated to lead the SSR process,” adding that it will continue to”endeavour collaboration and partnership with the citizens of which Civil Society Organisations could play a vital role.”
The three-day interface with CSOs is expected to explore ways to implement the recommendations that were previously endorsed by major stakeholders.
As this week’s National Dialogue workshop is also tasked with the responsibility to establish a platform, NSA Aboubacarr S. Jeng expressed hopes that it will “enhance effective communication, coordination, collaboration, and partnerships.”
Speaking earlier, ECOWAS Resident Representative Miatta Lily French, said the regional bloc has immensely contributed to the country’s transformation efforts since 2017, including the Security Sector Reform (SSR).
The ECOWAS plenipotentiary further stated that the process will help improve State and human security by applying the principles of good governance to SSR. She then added:
“The goal of SSR is to apply the principles of good governance to the SSR. Security Sector Reform (SSR) concerns all states and non- states actors involved in security provisions, oversight and management, within the framework of democratic and civilian control.”
According to her, SSR oversight is essential to the country’s security sector institutions. She reiterated ECOWAS stance which consists of putting citizens and communities at the centre stage of SSR.
