The initiative, driven by a Canarian NGO, seeks to improve the living conditions of the Gambian population through workshops on first aid, safe driving, mechanics, vehicle extrication, and natural disaster response. This training takes place at a government center in Kotu, on the outskirts of Banjul, where disused vehicles serve as practical material.
“"Without security, investment is impossible. If we don't start building the house from the foundation, it's impossible for the country to develop."
Around a hundred personnel, including firefighters, police, military, and intelligence agents from Gambia, participate in classes taught by firefighters from the Lanzarote Security and Emergency Consortium and staff from the Cabildo de Gran Canaria. The training covers basic safe driving rules and anticipating road hazards, a critical aspect in a country with high road accident mortality.
Canarian instructors also focus on first aid techniques and procedures for extricating trapped individuals, adapting the teaching to the limited material resources available. It is emphasized that this training must be complemented by regulatory changes and shifts in public habits, as Gambia lacks traffic regulations and vehicle overcrowding is common.
In addition to rescue training, Gambian teams receive instruction in using digital tools for forest fire management. These technologies, including artificial intelligence and satellite image analysis, enable early warning alerts and improved monitoring of the more than 300 annual fires affecting the country, where wind is a decisive factor.
“"There are certain measures we normally ignore, which are very important. I believe that if applied, it will bring many changes to our department. We are very grateful to the Canarian professionals."
The mission, supported by institutional leaders such as the counselor for Social Welfare and Inclusion of the Cabildo de Lanzarote and the manager of the Lanzarote Emergency Consortium, aims to continue the project under a “trainer of trainers” model and expand areas of specialization in future collaborations.
