In a significant milestone for the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), Major Dr Abdoulie K. Conteh has completed a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme in International Criminal Law at the University of The Gambia.
As the first serving member of GAF to achieve this feat, Major Dr. Conteh presented the lifecycle of his academic journey to the High Command at the Defence Headquarters in Banjul on Thursday, September 25, 2025.
His PhD journey spanned from September 2021 to July 2025, focused on the critical intersection of international criminal justice, state accountability, and the role of military institutions.
During his presentation, the erudite military officer outlined the substance and strategic benefits of his research for the national security architecture.
His academic degree provided advanced expertise in areas central to modern military operations, including the legal frameworks governing armed conflicts, principles of command responsibility, and military accountability.
The programme enhances proficiency in the jurisprudence of international tribunals, the International Criminal Court (ICC), and the legal obligations of armed forces under international humanitarian and human rights law.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, on behalf of the entire GAF, congratulated Major Dr. Conteh on his milestone achievement, commending the effort as a testament to his dedication and a significant advancement for the institution.
In his remarks, Major Dr Conteh expressed gratitude to the GAF high command for their unwavering support throughout his studies, adding that the accomplishment was not an individual achievement but a tremendous gain for the entire GAF as an institution.
Echoing the sentiments of the leadership, Deputy CDS Major General Ousman Gomez urged other officers to emulate the excellence and commitment demonstrated by Major Dr. Conteh, highlighting the programme’s direct relevance to the professional development of the armed forces.
Major Dr. Conteh is the new Special Adviser to the CDS on Policy, Gender, Human Rights, and Reforms.
