News and Events

GMA Hosts Regional Workshop on Efficient Procurement for Marine Aids to Navigation (AtoN)

BIJILO, THE GAMBIA – The Gambia Maritime Administration (GMA), in strategic partnership with the International Organisation for Marine Aids to Navigation (IALA), has officially launched a high-level, five-day regional training workshop on Efficient Procurement for Marine Aids to Navigation at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Center.
This capacity-building initiative brings together maritime experts and procurement officers from five West African nations: The Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Cape Verde, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.

The primary objective of this workshop is to equip participants with the technical knowledge and practical tools required to manage the complex procurement lifecycle of Aids to Navigation (AtoN). From drafting sound business cases and technical specifications to evaluating international tenders and managing long-term contracts, the training ensures that maritime infrastructure is both reliable and cost-effective.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director General of the Gambia Maritime Administration Counsel Olimatou Danso Malang underscored the vital role Marine Aids to Navigation play in ensuring safe navigation, protecting the marine environment, and facilitating maritime trade. He noted that timely and efficient procurement of AtoN equipment remains essential for meeting international safety standards expected of Port States.

The Director General highlighted that in many countries within the sub-region, specialised AtoN equipment and accessories are not readily available, making a clear understanding of procurement chains indispensable—particularly when damaged or obsolete equipment must be urgently replaced to maintain navigational safety.

As part of its commitment to strengthening AtoN services, GMA has established a dedicated Aids to Navigation Unit and continues to prioritise capacity building within the Administration. This includes advanced technical training for AtoN personnel at the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana, and the recruitment of qualified engineering professionals to enhance operational effectiveness.

The Director General reaffirmed GMA’s resolve to continue collaborating with regional and international partners to build institutional capacity, ensure the availability of skilled manpower, and provide the equipment necessary for the efficient provision of AtoN services in line with Gambia’s Coastal and Port State Obligations.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure, Mr. Samba Camara underscored the importance of fiscal responsibility. He noted that efficient procurement must provide "value for money" while shielding public institutions from the wastage of vital resources. He urged participants to return to their respective countries ready to implement more robust, transparent procurement systems.

Representing IALA, Capacity Building Manager Madam Gerardine DELANOYE provided a poignant summary of the organization’s mission: "To keep ships away from rocks." She commended The Gambia’s visible commitment and recent investments in maritime safety, which have solidified the nation's position as a key player in ensuring safety of navigation.
The training forms part of GMA’s broader mandate to promote maritime safety and align national maritime operations with international standards and best practices.

GMA Communication