Gambia Navy Receives Two RHIBs from EU to Boost Maritime Security
Gambia Navy Receives Two RHIBs from EU to Boost Maritime Security
Gambia Navy Receives Two RHIBs from EU to Boost Maritime Security
In a significant boost to national and regional maritime security, the Gambia Navy has formally taken delivery of two Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats (RHIBs) donated by the European Union under the Support to West Africa Integrated Maritime Security (SWAIMS) programme.
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The handover ceremony took place on February 5, 2026, at the Naval Headquarters in Banjul, marking a major step toward strengthening The Gambia’s capacity to safeguard its territorial waters. The RHIBs were delivered with complete standard operating equipment and will enhance patrol operations, search and rescue missions, and efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, as well as smuggling activities that threaten national food security and economic stability.
In his welcome address, the Commanding Officer Naval Command, Commander Fara Jobe, said the new assets would significantly improve the Navy’s operational effectiveness and response capabilities across the country’s maritime domain.
He noted that the donation also includes comprehensive training for Gambian naval personnel on the operation and maintenance of the boats, ensuring sustainable use of the equipment.
The European Union Ambassador to The Gambia, Her Excellency Immaculada Roca i Cortés, alongside the ECOWAS Representative and Head of Mission in The Gambia, Her Excellency Maitta Lily French, emphasized that the initiative strengthens regional cooperation and promotes African-led maritime security. They explained that the delivery forms part of a wider effort under SWAIMS, with similar vessels already provided to other ECOWAS coastal states to foster a coordinated regional response to shared maritime threats.
The SWAIMS Manager, Navy Captain Rui Pedro Sylva Filipe, delivered a technical briefing on the boats, outlining their capabilities and onboard equipment.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces, Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Ousman Gomez, described the support as timely and impactful. He said the donation would greatly strengthen the Gambia Navy’s ability to protect the nation’s maritime space, stressing that maritime security remains a top national priority given the country’s dependence on the sea for livelihoods, food security, and economic growth.
The Honourable Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, expressed deep appreciation to the European Union and partners, highlighting the importance of the collaboration for a riverine and maritime nation like The Gambia, where marine resources are central to national development.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of handover documents between Commodore Rui Leite Da Cunha and the Chief of Naval Staff, Commodore Sambou Barrow, reaffirming commitment to the professional use of the assets and a coordinated approach to protecting the country’s waters.
The event was attended by representatives of the European Union, ECOWAS, Civil Guardia, Office of National Security, Gambia Maritime Authority, Fisheries Department, and heads of various security services and agencies.
Gambia Navy Receives Two RHIBs from EU to Boost Maritime Security
