The Gambia Immigration Department (GID), in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM), has commenced a four-day workshop on the Migration Information and Data Analysis System (MIDAS) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and Maintenance Development Plan. The training, held at ABCAS Creek Lodge in Foni Bintang, brings together border officers to strengthen migration and tourism data collection across the country.
The workshop marks a significant step in expanding MIDAS to three new border entry points: Banjul Seaport, Kartong Border Post, and Nyamarr Border Post. These will complement the nine existing MIDAS-equipped posts established with support from the Government of The Gambia and the World Bank. The expansion aims to enhance border management, improve data collection, and support evidence-based planning under the Tourism Diversification and Resilience Project.
Delivering the keynote, Ms. Sibgha Azaz, IOM Chief of Mission, praised GID’s dedication to the project and emphasized the importance of standardizing MIDAS operations nationwide. She noted that the workshop would help identify operational challenges and develop practical solutions to ensure sustainability and national ownership of the system.
Deputy Director General of GID, Hulay Jallow Cham, officially opened the workshop, commending the Ministry of Tourism and Culture, the Government of The Gambia, and partners including IOM, DCAF, and the World Bank for their continued support.
DDG Cham highlighted migration as a defining feature of globalization, offering opportunities for economic growth, cultural exchange, and tourism development, while also warning of challenges such as cybercrime, human trafficking, and migrant smuggling.
She called for collective commitment and inclusiveness in advancing GID’s modernization and digital transformation agenda before declaring the workshop open.
