Gambia’s Defence Minister, Deputy CDS Sworn In as Armed Forces Council Members
The Minister of Defence, Honourable Abubacarr Ousmaila Joof, alongside the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff (GAF), Major General Ousman Gomez, were on Thursday, 15 January 2026, sworn in as members of The Gambia Armed Forces Council.
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The swearing-in ceremony was held at the State House in Banjul and was presided over by President Adama Barrow, President of the Republic of The Gambia and Commander-in-Chief of the Gambia Armed Forces.
The Armed Forces Council was initially inaugurated by President Barrow on 16 September 2022. The seven-member council is chaired by the Vice President and comprises the Minister of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the Commanders of the Gambia National Army, Gambia Navy, and the Republican National Guard.
The Council serves as a key advisory body to the President on matters relating to defence policy and national security strategy. Its responsibilities include advising on the promotion of officers to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and above, as well as formulating regulations for the effective performance of its functions, subject to presidential approval.
The inclusion of the Defence Minister and the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff is expected to further strengthen civil-military coordination and enhance strategic decision-making within the Armed Forces, in line with the roles and responsibilities outlined in The Gambia’s Constitution.
Gambia’s Defence Minister, Deputy CDS Sworn In as Armed Forces Council Members