By Seedy Jobe
The Gambia Prisons Service on Friday promoted and decorated 188 officers during a ceremony at its headquarters, with officials describing the exercise as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism, accountability, and reforms within the country’s correctional system.
The promotions, which recognized officers for their dedication and exemplary service, were also presented as a reaffirmation of the service’s commitment to national security, the administration of justice, and the rehabilitation of inmates.
The ceremony was attended by Director General of the Gambia Prisons Service Ansumana Manneh, heads of sister security services, senior prison officials, and family members of the promoted officers.
The newly promoted officers included 16 senior cadre officers and 172 junior cadre officers. Addressing them, Director General Manneh described the promotions as a significant milestone, stressing that advancement in rank carries greater responsibility rather than privilege.
“Promotion is not simply a reward for past performance; it is a call to greater leadership and accountability,” Manneh said, urging the officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity. He noted that their conduct would play a critical role in shaping the future of the Gambia Prisons Service.
Manneh reminded the officers that correctional work remains both demanding and indispensable to the country’s justice system. He said the strength of the institution is determined not only by its infrastructure or resources, but also by the discipline, integrity, and dedication of its personnel.
He urged officers assuming leadership positions to lead by example through fairness, humility, and respect, emphasizing that effective leadership is built on service and accountability.
Highlighting the changing role of correctional institutions globally, Manneh said the Gambia Prisons Service is committed to moving beyond custodial responsibilities by placing greater emphasis on rehabilitation, education, vocational training, and skills development for inmates.
According to him, while offenders must be held accountable for their actions, they should also be given meaningful opportunities to reform and successfully reintegrate into society as productive citizens.
The Director General further noted that every department within the service—including security, administration, healthcare, social work, and rehabilitation—plays a vital role in achieving its mandate. He said every decision and interaction by prison officers contributes to public trust and confidence in the institution.
Manneh expressed appreciation to President Adama Barrow for what he described as the government’s continued support for security sector reforms, staff welfare, and institutional development. He also thanked Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang for his leadership and guidance.
He further acknowledged the contributions of development partners for supporting the Service through training, infrastructure development and technical assistance.
The Director General also paid tribute to the families of the promoted officers for their unwavering support and sacrifices, while recognizing retired officers whose service helped lay the foundation for the institution. He commended the Ex-Officers Welfare Association for preserving the Service’s traditions and promoting unity among former personnel.
Concluding his address, Manneh called on all officers to remain committed to building a professional, disciplined and accountable correctional service.
“To the officers promoted today, wear your new ranks with humility, discharge your duties with excellence, and always remember that every promotion brings greater responsibility to serve your institution, your country and the people of The Gambia,” he said.
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