The ECOWAS Parliament has called for stronger border security, intensified public awareness campaigns and greater support for young people as part of efforts to tackle irregular migration and human trafficking across West Africa.
The appeal came during a community engagement in Brikama South as the regional parliament continued its week-long campaign against irregular migration and modern slavery in The Gambia.
Speaking at Suba Ward in Brikama, West Coast Regional Anti-Trafficking Officer of the National Agency Against Trafficking in Persons, Seedy Bojang, said trafficking networks continue to prey on vulnerable people by promising employment opportunities abroad.
“Many victims are deceived with offers of jobs in restaurants and beauty salons, only to end up being forced into commercial sexual exploitation after arriving in The Gambia,” he said.
Mr Bojang said traffickers often use threats and intimidation to control their victims, revealing that some girls as young as 12 have been targeted by criminal syndicates.
He disclosed that the agency investigated about 30 trafficking cases in the past year, most involving sexual exploitation. More than 50 victims were rescued, over 30 suspects were arrested and four convictions secured, while several other cases remain before the courts.
According to him, porous borders, organised criminal networks and growing economic pressure on young people seeking quick financial success continue to fuel human trafficking.
The forum also heard emotional testimonies from survivors of irregular migration.
One returnee, Alhagie Kanteh, described enduring torture and imprisonment during his journey and witnessing the killing of fellow migrants, including a mother and her son.
Members of the ECOWAS Parliament said such experiences highlight the dangers faced by people using irregular migration routes.
Maimuna Ceesay told participants that while migration is a legitimate reality, irregular migration leaves many young people vulnerable to trafficking, exploitation and death.
Community leaders welcomed the awareness campaign, saying sustained public education is one of the most effective ways to address the root causes of irregular migration.
The Gambia’s Minority Leader and member of the country’s delegation to the ECOWAS Parliament, Alhagie S. Darboe, said the country continues to face a disproportionate burden from irregular migration and stressed the need for stronger regional cooperation.
The campaign is part of wider ECOWAS efforts to combat human trafficking, protect vulnerable people and promote safe and legal migration across the region. The outreach programme will continue in Barra, North Bank Region.
