GPF, UNDP inaugurate Essau Model Police Station
By Sulayman Waan
The Gambia Police Force, in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), on Saturday, August 2nd, 2025, inaugurated the Essau Model Police Station.
The inauguration of the modern security facility is a landmark in the country’s ongoing security sector reform and commitment to democratic, people-centered policing.
The occasion was attended by a high-level delegation including Minister of Interior, UNDP Regional Director for Africa and UN Assistant Secretary-General, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa; Minister of Works and Infrastructure, Hon. Ebrima Sillah; Minister of Trade, Hon. Baboucarr Joof; and the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Seedy Mukhtar Touray, accompanied by AIG Ebrima Bah and AIG Pateh Jallow.
Also in attendance were the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff, heads of sister security institutions such as DLEAG, GID, and NAS, members of the diplomatic corps, senior police commissioners, regional governors, Alkalos, Seyfos, and community members from across the North Bank Region.
Representing President Barrow, Minister of Interior, Abdoulie Sanyang reaffirmed government’s resolve to deliver on its Security Sector Reform agenda, focusing on access to justice, human rights, and accountable public service.
The Essau Model Police Station now stands as a beacon of partnership, trust, and justice, an enduring symbol of The Gambia’s collective progress toward a safer and more inclusive society
In his welcoming address, the Alkalo of Essau, Mr. Lang Njie, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, while Governor Lamin Saidykhan emphasized government’s commitment to regional development and enhanced security.
The Inspector General of Police, Seedy Mukhtar Touray, commended the joint efforts of UNDP, the government, and the community in realizing the project, describing the facility as a flagship of reform and a model for future policing infrastructure.
UNDP Regional Director for Africa and UN Assistant Secretary General, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa called on the community to take ownership of the station and highlighted the importance of inclusive governance and sustainable peace.
She reaffirmed UNDP’s continued support to the Gambia’s security sector.
The event concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, followed by a guided tour of the state-of-the-art facility, designed with gender-sensitive and human rights-compliant features, including separate holding cells, accessible counters, and dedicated spaces for child and survivor support.
SW/COB/03/08/25
