The Ecowas Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), in collaboration with the Gambia Defence and Security Forces (GDSF), on Monday commemorated Breast Cancer Awareness Month at the School of Nursing and Midwifery auditorium in Banjul.
The programme featured educational lectures, awareness campaigns, a march past and free breast cancer screening for Ecomig personnel and members of the public. The team is expected to screen over 80 women.
The initiative aims to promote early detection, encourage access to screening and strengthen public understanding of risk factors, symptoms and treatment options.
Col Aliou Tine, Ecomig Force Commander, said: “Peace without health is incomplete. Our mandate is to support peace and stability, but lasting peace is only possible when our people, especially our women who are the backbone of our communities, are healthy, empowered and informed.”
He noted that breast cancer is the most common cancer among women globally, but in West Africa many cases are presented late due to lack of awareness, myths and stigma.
“Today is not just a lecture. It is a life-saving mission,” he said, urging participants to learn self-examination and ask questions without shame.
Assistant Inspector General of Police Amie Nyassi, responsible for the Crime Department, commended Ecomig for the initiative, describing it as a noble gesture that goes beyond traditional security.
“True security is not only about guns and battles, but also about the health, dignity and well-being of the people we protect,” she said.
