At least 207 Gambian migrants have received their German residence permits after completing months of vocational skills training.

“The good and refreshing news is that 207 Gambians throughout Germany have received a residence permit for employment with completed vocational training as of December 31, 2020,” Yahya Sonko spokesman for the Gambian Refugees Council in Baden-Württemberg told Gambiana.

“This number would increase because a good number of Gambians completed their vocational training in 2021 too. 

“This year, a considerable number of skilled workers who have completed their vocational training will be added to the group and will be allowed to apply for a residence permit.”

According to him, Gambians who have lived in Germany for eight years can also apply for a residence permit under certain conditions, and will soon join the group.

“In the next two to three years, a considerable number of Gambians will have reached this eight- or six-year (for families, etc.) the qualifying period for Duldung (temporary permit).

“All this development and improvements vindicated, we the helpers, activists , networks and counsels that if Gambians are cared for and supported by both Germany and The Gambia Government many would have better chances or opportunities to learn, work and stay in peace and harmony. 

“When deportations are reduced, many Gambians will have better chances and focus on [bettering] themselves,“ he said.

He urged Gambians to focus on best integration methods and take advantage of vocational training and cooperate with activists and lawyers to improve their situations, and to stay away from criminal acts. 

“Gambians are known to be hardworking but not drug dealers or alcoholics,” Sonko said. 

Reporting by Adama Makasuba