The vice president and chairperson of the National Security Council has challenged members of the Gambia's peacekeepers that formed the GAMCOY 16 to maintain a high sense of morale and professionalism during their stay in the war-torn nation of Sudan. Bidding the 208-member contingent farewell Monday at the July 22nd Square in Banjul, Aja Dr. Isatou Njie-Saidy admonished them to promote the country's image throughout their mission, urging the men and women in uniform to be loyal and respect the chain of command at all times.

GAMCOY 16, which comprises of 13 officers, five women and 195 other ranks, will replace the 15th contingent, whose term expired after a six-month mission in Sudan. The contingent, led by Major Seedy Joof consists of rifle plateau detachments 1, 2 and 3 and administration plateau, 1 and 2 along with a full-fledged team of medical personnel. The vice president also told the soldiers that indiscipline and unruly behaviour of any kind will not be tolerated during their mission in Darfur, saying the Gambia Armed Forces has been internationally renowned as a professional, highly motivated and well disciplined force in peacekeeping missions

She noted that in recent times, the situation in Sudan remains relatively calm with few unexpected fatal attacks on other peacekeeping troops by unknown emerging rebel groups. This, according to Njie-Saidy, has threatened the achievement of peace for the people of the region and poses challenges to the peacekeeping operations in the area.

She assured that the government of The Gambia will continue to fulfil its obligation under the charter and principles of the African Union in defending peace and stability, especially in war-torn Darfur. "It is gratifying to note that the gallant and patriotic men and women of the GAF and other security services continue to demonstrate a high level of professionalism, discipline and cooperation in the execution of their various duties in peacekeeping operations. This noble attitude has earned us the respect, recognition and appreciation around the world in international peacekeeping programmes," she remarked.

While calling on members of GAMCOY16 to be proactive in Darfur, the veep informed them that the communication centre of the force headquarters is now under the care of the Gambian contingent during the tenure of GAMCOY 15. "As an additional responsibility, you must also assist in the process of peace building to contribute to a secure environment for the delivery of relief materials and the return of internationally displaced persons and refugees. I would like to urge you to take every precaution you need not only to protect yourselves, but also to live up to expectations and respect the rules of engagement," she further advised.

She further reminded the soldiers that the men and women that served before them have not only been able to raise the Gambian flag high, but also performed their duties diligently. To this end, she further admonished the members of the contingent to ensure that they even perform better.

VP Njie-Saidy seized the opportunity to thank the trainers at the GAF Training School, the Turkish military adviser, the Royal Gibraltar Regiment and the chief of Defence Staff of GAF for making it possible. "Go in peace and come back in peace," she concluded.

The CDS of GAF, Lt. General Ousman Bargie, said The Gambia has been steadfast in its commitment to the maintenance of peace, saying it stood by Darfur through thick and thin in all these while. Even though the security situation in Darfur has greatly improved, the CDS warned that it still remains complex. "The latest deadliest attack on UNAMID troops on 13 July 2013 makes the security situation there unpredictable. However, with determination, sacrifice and steadfastness, you will make your way through," he said.

In view of these challenges, the GAF boss enjoined members of the departing contingent to redouble their efforts in Darfur as the responsibilities at hand are already daunting. He informed them that the other aspect of their mission is the protection of the civilian population from all forms of violence. "Perhaps more importantly, you are required to give hope to the hopeless and restore confidence and human dignity in the communities," he stated.

While noting that peacekeeping is a demanding mission fraught with lots of challenges, the military chief however indicated that it also presents opportunities for the members to learn and develop both as individuals and a team. "My advice to you all is to work harder to win the hearts and minds of your fellow peacekeepers as well as the civilian population. This will require a high sense of commitment and dedication to the service of the mission and the people of Darfur," he enjoined.

Background of Gambia's mission The Gambia started to take part in peacekeeping mission in the restive region of Sudan on 24 December 2004. By the summer of 2004, it was estimated that more than 50,000 people were killed in Darfur while a million more fled for their lives and sought refuge in neighbouring countries. In March 2004, Darfur was described by the UN as the world's worst humanitarian crises. GAMCOY 16 is the 10th contingent to be deployed under the UN/AU hybrid mission, referred to as the United Nations African Mission in Darfur (UNAMID).