Chief of Defence Staff of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), Lieutenant General Mamat O.A. Cham, has launched the second phase of his nationwide tour of military installations, beginning in Kanilai, the hometown of former President Yahya Jammeh.

The visit is focused on strengthening troop engagement and assessing operations in border communities, the Greater Banjul Area, and the capital.

At the 4 Infantry Battalion headquarters in Kanilai, General Cham was received with full military honours, including a ceremonial Quarter Guard.

The delegation was briefed by Battalion Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Wassa Camara, on the unit’s recent activities and security posture in the area.

Once a heavily fortified presidential retreat under Jammeh’s rule, Kanilai has since returned to a quieter profile.

However, it remains strategically significant due to its location near the Senegalese border.

General Cham also met with community elders from Kanilai and surrounding villages, using the opportunity to emphasise the importance of strong civil-military relations.

 He encouraged troops to support local development through initiatives such as basic medical outreach and community service.

In an address to the troops during a durbar, the Defence Chief stressed the importance of discipline and professionalism.

He praised the battalion for what he called an “exceptional welcome and a well-coordinated display,” urging continued adherence to high standards.

The CDS later visited the Senegalese contingent of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG), receiving a briefing on their operations. 

By Adama Makasuba