By Adama Makasuba
The newly appointed Acting Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), Major General Ousman Gomez, has paid a courtesy call on the Minister of Defence, Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, following his assumption of duty.
The visit represents his first official engagement with the Defence Ministry since he was appointed to lead the military in an acting capacity after the resignation of his predecessor.
During the meeting, Major General Gomez expressed gratitude to the government and military high command for entrusting him with the responsibility at a critical moment for the institution.
He pledged to uphold discipline, professionalism, and operational readiness within the armed forces.
He further reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that the Gambia Armed Forces continues to fulfil its constitutional role of defending the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and security of the country.
Defence Minister Baboucarr Ousmaila Joof, in response, congratulated the Acting Chief of Defence Staff and assured him of the Ministry’s full support in carrying out his duties.
The Minister emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and professionalism within the armed forces, noting that the military remains a key pillar in safeguarding national peace and stability.
He also praised the institution’s continued dedication to constitutional governance and regional peace efforts, expressing confidence in Major General Gomez’s leadership during the transition period.
The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to deepen cooperation between the Defence Ministry and the Gambia Armed Forces in support of national security and institutional strengthening.
Senior officials in attendance included Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence Madam Rohie Bittaye Darboe, Deputy Permanent Secretary Mr. Abdoulie M. I. Kah, and Military Assistant to the Minister, Commander Adama Trawalley.
Major General Gomez’s appointment follows the resignation of the former Chief of Defence Staff, ushering in a new phase of leadership within the country’s military hierarchy.
