The Gambia Immigration Department Female Network (GIFNet) has taken a historic step in advancing women’s leadership and inclusion within the security sector by validating its draft Constitution during a workshop held in Pechami, Senegambia.
The event brought together female officers of the Gambia Immigration Department (GID), representatives from sister security institutions, the Ministry of Interior, DCAF, NAATIP, the Office of National Security (ONS), and the Ministry of Justice. Participants reviewed and endorsed the proposed legal framework that will guide the Network’s operations and future growth.
Assistant Director General Olimatou Jammeh, in her opening remarks, underscored the importance of establishing a strong and functional Female Network. She emphasized that GIFNet provides women with a platform to contribute meaningfully to institutional development, professional excellence, leadership, and national security.
Deputy Director General of Immigration, Ms. Hulay Jallow Cham, urged participants to approach the constitutional review with impartiality and a focus on collective aspirations. She highlighted GIFNet’s role in amplifying women’s voices, nurturing emerging leaders, and fostering collaboration across the service.
Representing the Office of National Security, Director of Joint Assessment Saikou Ceesay called for gender-sensitive policies and greater representation of women in decision-making positions. He encouraged GIFNet to strengthen partnerships locally and internationally while promoting mentorship, career advancement, and women’s participation in both operational and strategic decision-making.
Deputy Permanent Secretary Lamin Jatta, speaking on behalf of the Honourable Minister of Interior, stressed the importance of a well-structured framework to advance women’s participation and leadership within the Immigration Department. He noted that inclusion must extend across strategic, operational, tactical, and technical functions of the institution.
The validation of the GIFNet Constitution marks a significant milestone in the Network’s institutional development. It aligns with the Gambia Immigration Department’s broader reform agenda and is expected to serve as a living framework for advocacy, professional development, leadership advancement, and the promotion of the rights and welfare of female officers.
