US Coast Guard strengthens port security capacity at Alport Banjul

Written by: Alieu Jallow

Alport Banjul recently wrapped up a five-day intensive audit seminar supported by the United States Coast Guard International Port Security Program, aimed at strengthening the capacity of port security personnel and partner agencies.

The training brought together key actors responsible for safeguarding The Gambia’s main seaport, with a focus on practical auditing skills, compliance, and real-time assessment of port facilities. Officials said the programme was designed to deepen participants’ understanding of international maritime security standards, particularly the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code.

Introduced by the International Maritime Organization following the September 11 attacks, the ISPS Code provides a comprehensive framework for detecting and deterring security threats in ports and aboard ships engaged in international trade. For a port like Banjul, a critical gateway for imports and exports, compliance is essential for safety, sustaining global trade confidence, and attracting investment.

During the seminar, participants conducted hands-on audit simulations using IMO checklists, took part in a live port facility visit, and documented real-world findings. They later presented full audit reports, demonstrating operational readiness and reinforcing Alport Banjul’s commitment to strengthening security and boosting maritime trade.

Tivo Remeo of the United States Coast Guard highlighted the global importance of maritime transport, describing it as central to international economic activity. He said the Coast Guard remains committed to supporting countries like The Gambia in implementing the ISPS Code to address evolving security threats.

“US Coast Guard began working with The Gambia last year, focusing on port security management and the importance of strong leadership within security departments. This time, we engaged to strengthen auditing practices and skills across all agencies responsible for port security, with another engagement anticipated in June,” he said.

Participants described the training as timely and impactful. Alagie Gaye said it has sharpened his understanding of compliance requirements and audit procedures.

“We were introduced to auditing. We now know where to look, identify lapses, and apply recommendations. At the end of the day, this training will help improve the ports so that The Gambia can have secure and safe facilities,” he said.

Mam Badjie and Tida Manneh echoed similar sentiments, acknowledging pre-existing gaps and expressing commitment to applying the knowledge gained.

“Before and after the training, we realised there were gaps, but moving forward we will work to address them,” they said.

Alport Chief Security Officer, Barış Demirci, reaffirmed the company’s ambition to transform the Port of Banjul into a world-class maritime hub, stressing that the investment goes beyond business and reflects a long-term commitment to national development.

“Our commitment to transforming this facility into a world-class maritime hub is unwavering. A project of this scale requires international trust. Achieving and maintaining improved ISPS compliance is not just a technical requirement, it is key to unlocking a multi-million-dollar investment roadmap and fulfilling our promise to the government and the people of The Gambia,” he said.

Also speaking, Kulay Manneh, representing the ports authority, said capacity building remains a continuous process, adding that the training has strengthened both institutional and individual readiness to meet the demands of international maritime operations.

The seminar ended with a shared understanding among stakeholders that sustained collaboration, regular audits, and continuous professional development will be critical to maintaining high security standards at the Port of Banjul, positioning it as a safe, competitive, and trusted hub for regional and global maritime trade.