By Amadou Jadama
A three-day training on international maritime law for twenty officers of the Gambia Navy and other attaches has recently ended in Banjul courtesy of the British government.
Speaking at the closing Madani Senghore, commander of The Gambia Navy said the training would help officers in executing their duties. He added that understanding the rights and obligations of the ship owners, the fishing trawlers, the seafarers and other users of the sea would “promote safety and security in the maritime domain as well as enhance their efficiency in maritime law enforcement”.
Commander Senghore further highlighted that the challenges within the sub-region are numerous, ranging from illegal, unreported and unregulating fishing, drug trafficking, illegal migration and other banditries within the territorial waters and in the international waters.
“Therefore, enhancing our knowledge and developing our capacity to be able to fulfil our international obligations, and also our national obligations will greatly help in making sure that we enjoy the benefits of the sea”.
He urged the officers to continue their quest in search of knowledge in the efficient delivery of their duties.
David Belgrove OBE, the British High Commissioner to The Gambia who was Guest Speaker, said maritime security is crucial in the safety of seafarers and the protection of marine resources.
Colonel Cooper, Liaison Officer of the British Military, stated that the training has exposed the participants to a wide range of issues concerning maritime safety.
Certificates were presented to the participants.
