Defence Minister Admits Operational Challenges Facing Armed Forces

By Jarra News Staff Reporter

The Minister of Defence, Babucarr O. Joof, has acknowledged significant challenges affecting the operational readiness of the Gambia Armed Forces (GAF), citing shortages of equipment, vehicles, uniforms, accommodation and funding.

The minister made the disclosure while responding to the report of the National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Defence and Security following its oversight visits to police stations, military barracks, customs units, prisons and drug law enforcement agencies across the country.

Addressing lawmakers, Mr Joof outlined several constraints facing the defence sector, including inadequate military infrastructure, limited operational equipment and logistics, transportation difficulties, insufficient operational funding, and shortages of uniforms, boots and personal protective equipment.

According to the minister, many military facilities—including barracks, administrative offices, training centres and operational posts—require rehabilitation, expansion and modernisation to meet increasing operational demands.

He stressed that improving military infrastructure remains critical to maintaining operational effectiveness, enhancing personnel welfare and strengthening institutional capacity. To address these concerns, the government is pursuing a phased development strategy involving public funding, rehabilitation initiatives and strategic partnerships aimed at upgrading military facilities.

Mr Joof further revealed that equipment shortages continue to hinder military operations despite ongoing efforts to strengthen administrative and operational capabilities.

“Equipment shortfalls continue to exist due to competing national priorities,” he told lawmakers.

To improve readiness, the Armed Forces have introduced a structured equipment management system focused on the acquisition, replacement and maintenance of essential assets.

The minister also identified vehicle shortages and the ageing military fleet as major operational challenges. He noted that increasing operational commitments have placed additional strain on transportation resources.

In response, authorities are enhancing fleet management systems, improving maintenance procedures and implementing a phased replacement programme for obsolete vehicles.

Budgetary limitations, the minister added, continue to affect key areas such as fuel supply, equipment maintenance, training activities and logistics support.

“Adequate, timely and predictable funding is fundamental to sustaining operational readiness,” Mr Joof stated, noting that discussions are ongoing with relevant government authorities to secure resources that reflect the Armed Forces’ growing responsibilities.

The shortage of uniforms, boots and personal protective equipment was also attributed to procurement delays and supply chain disruptions. To address these issues, the ministry is strengthening procurement planning, improving inventory management and enhancing distribution systems to ensure personnel receive the equipment necessary to carry out their duties effectively.

Mr Joof said the ongoing interventions form part of wider efforts to build a capable, resilient and professional defence force that can effectively fulfil its constitutional mandate.