President Barrow with the contingent
By Makutu Manneh
President Adama Barrow on Thursday presided over a farewell ceremony at the State House for the Senegalese ECOMIG contingent, marking the completion of their two-year mission in The Gambia.
During the ceremony, President Barrow presented certificates of recognition to the departing officers, commending their professionalism and service. He encouraged the contingent to carry forward their dedication and wished them success in future assignments.
The President praised the battalion for the successful execution of their mandate and expressed appreciation to the Heads of State of ECOWAS for their continued support. He also acknowledged the leadership of Senegalese President, His Excellency Bassirou Diomaye Faye, highlighting his role in strengthening Senegalo-Gambian relations.
Captain Amacodou Faye, Commander of the Senegalese contingent, conveyed gratitude to President Barrow and the Gambian people for their hospitality and support throughout the mission, describing The Gambia as a welcoming home during their deployment.
ECOMIG, formally known as Operation Restore Democracy, is a regional peacekeeping mission comprising troops mainly from Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria. The force was first deployed in January 2017 following former President Yahya Jammeh’s refusal to cede power after losing elections to President Barrow.
In June 2025, ECOWAS extended ECOMIG’s mandate in The Gambia for a final two years.