Government to relocate Mile 2 prison and expand Banjul port

“In the correctional system,” the president disclosed, “plans are underway to close the Mile 2 prison and integrate it into the Banjul port area. The entity will be transferred to Jeshwang or relocated to a new location in the Greater Banjul area. This is in line with the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and various human rights reports.”

Regarding the police stations that have been commissioned, he said: “In 2023, we commissioned four model police stations equipped with modern equipment and built fifty-two (52) new accommodation rooms for the military in Farafenni. All the accommodation rooms were fully funded by the government.

“In line with these efforts, we have commissioned two naval vessels, one funded by the Government of The Gambia and the other donated by the Kingdom of Spain. This development promotes cooperation with the Republic of Senegal to combat cross-border crime.”

He praised the Gambia Immigration Service, saying that its revenue in 2023 had “increased significantly” to over two hundred million dalasis (GMD200 million) compared to one hundred and four million four hundred and seven thousand one hundred and thirty dalasis (GMD104,407,130) in 2022.

He added: “This increase is undoubtedly a sign of improved financial management and a more effective monitoring system.”

Noting that migration remains a critical issue facing the world, the President said: “My government is therefore exploring legal avenues for Gambian migrants through bilateral labour migration cooperation.”

He also praised the Gambian diaspora for their important support to the country’s economy: “I thank the Gambian diaspora for their significant contribution to the country’s development. Remittances in 2023 amounted to $735 million ($735 million). These funds contribute to supporting families back home and also contribute to the development of our country.”

He further highlighted the government’s stand against illegal drugs. “DEA’s staggering seizures and convictions underscore our stand against drug abuse,” he said, adding: “DEA is actively working with partners to establish rehabilitation centres and has initiated a drug demand reduction programme to educate people, especially youth, on the dangers of drug abuse.”