By Fatoumatta Sillah
The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority has launched what officials describe as the country’s first comprehensive national cybersecurity training programme, aimed at strengthening digital security capacity in The Gambia.
The initiative brings together government officials, industry experts and stakeholders, and is designed to equip participants with practical skills to identify, prevent and respond to cyber threats.
Speaking at the launch, Mr Lamin Jabbie said the programme comes at a critical time as the country expands its digital infrastructure. “As our reliance on digital systems increases, so too does our exposure to cyber threats.
This training is not just timely—it is essential,” he said.
Officials say the programme marks a significant step in building national resilience against cyber risks, particularly as sectors such as telecommunications, finance and public administration become increasingly digitised.
A technical partner in the initiative, Mr Rorent, said cybersecurity requires a collective approach.
“Cybersecurity is not the responsibility of one institution alone. It requires coordinated action, knowledge sharing, and continuous learning,” he said.
Mr Kawsu Barrow highlighted the broader implications of the initiative, saying it goes beyond protecting systems.
“This is about protecting our economy, our institutions, and the trust of our citizens,” he said.
In her closing remarks, Board Chair Mrs Faye described the launch as a milestone, noting that it demonstrates proactive leadership in addressing emerging technological challenges.
The training is expected to be rolled out in phases, targeting professionals across multiple sectors, with organisers hoping it will support wider policy development and investment in cybersecurity.
Experts said initiatives of this kind are increasingly important as countries seek to strengthen defences against evolving global cyber threats.
