By: Sering Mass Jallow
The Gambia Ports Authority (GPA), in collaboration with the Albarayk Group (Alport Banjul), Wednesday conducted a maritime security exercise at the Port of Banjul.
The move was aimed at testing existing security measures, enhancing inter-agency coordination and strengthening preparedness against potential maritime security threats.
The exercise brought together state security institutions, including the Gambia Armed Forces, the Gambia Navy and the Gambia Fire and Rescue Services. It featured coordinated rescue and emergency response operations, showcasing discipline, precision and operational readiness in safeguarding the country’s territorial waters.
Speaking at the event held at the port’s dockyard, Alport Banjul Security Director, Baris Demurchi, expressed satisfaction with the conduct of the exercise, describing it as evidence of the port’s readiness to respond to any potential security challenge.
“This exercise meets international security standards,” Demurchi said. “It allows us to rehearse the most difficult situations, including emergencies and security threats.”
He added that the successful exercise reaffirmed the Port of Banjul’s position as one of the safest ports in the sub-region.
Also speaking, GPA Director of Maritime Security and Safety, Ebrima Jobe, underscores the importance of the exercise, noting that it goes beyond regulatory compliance amid increasing global maritime security challenges.
“Maritime security today faces threats from piracy, smuggling and geopolitical conflicts,” Jobe said. “This exercise serves as a preventive measure to protect lives, cargo and maritime operations.”
The exercise reaffirmed GPA and Albarayk Group’s joint commitment to maintaining high standards of port security and ensuring rapid response to emergencies and potential security threats.