A one-day validation workshop was held at the Ocean Bay Hotel, organized and sponsored by the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF). This workshop gathered senior officers, policy experts, and other key stakeholders to review and refine the new administrative working manual and policy framework for the Gambia Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS). The primary focus of this manual is to establish clear guidelines for human resources management and other administrative procedures to ensure a well-regulated, efficient, and accountable fire service.
The manual, as presented, includes policies on recruitment, employee rights and responsibilities, performance evaluation, and disciplinary actions. It also outlines the regulations that guide day-to-day administrative functions within GFRS, including record-keeping, financial management, and compliance with ethical standards. This new framework is designed to standardize HR practices across the GFRS, ensuring that all personnel are treated fairly and that resources are managed responsibly.
Throughout the workshop, participants discussed the positive impact these policies could have on GFRS. By implementing a structured HR policy, GFRS can establish transparent hiring processes, which are expected to attract qualified and dedicated individuals. With a consistent approach to performance evaluation and career development, employees will feel more valued and motivated, fostering a workplace culture that encourages high standards of professionalism.
The policies outlined in the manual also address issues of accountability and ethical conduct. By clearly defining expected behaviors and consequences for misconduct, GFRS can strengthen public trust in its services. Attendees noted that these standards would help minimize internal conflicts and enhance the agency’s reputation as a disciplined, reliable, and community-focused institution.
One of the key takeaways from the workshop was the role these policies could play in strengthening GFRS’s organizational structure. With well-defined procedures for decision-making and internal communication, the manual is expected to streamline administrative processes, enabling GFRS to operate more efficiently. Participants highlighted that these changes would allow the agency to better allocate resources, prioritize training, and improve response times, ultimately benefiting the communities GFRS serves.
However, several attendees suggested areas for improvement. They proposed introducing a review mechanism to allow periodic updates to the manual, ensuring that policies remain relevant in the face of evolving challenges and advancements in fire service practices. Additionally, the inclusion of a grievance handling policy was recommended to provide a structured process for addressing staff concerns, fostering a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
The validation workshop concluded with an acknowledgment of DCAF’s vital role in supporting GFRS’s mission to become a modern and effective fire service. By finalizing the administrative working manual, GFRS takes a significant step forward in professionalizing its workforce, enhancing accountability, and building stronger community relations. With continuous improvement and periodic updates, these policies are set to have a long-lasting positive impact on the GFRS’s capacity to serve the public effectively.
