Held under the theme “Promoting AML/CFT on the Altar,” the seminar concluded on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Tamala, bringing together religious leaders and representatives of religious institutions to raise awareness about financial crimes and measures to prevent the misuse of religious and charitable organisations.
The seminar sought to enhance participants’ understanding of the risks associated with money laundering and terrorist financing while providing practical guidance on measures that can help safeguard religious institutions from being exploited for criminal purposes.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Minister of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, Hon. Hamat N.K. Bah, stressed that money laundering and terrorist financing should not be viewed solely as financial or law-enforcement concerns.
He said the crimes have wider implications for the economy, national security, governance, social stability and the international reputation of the country.
Minister Bah urged religious leaders to use their platforms to educate communities about the dangers of financial crime.
“Use your mosques, churches, Islamic schools, religious gatherings, and community platforms to educate our people about the dangers of financial crime and the importance of protecting our communities,” he said.
The Director General of GIABA, Mam Cherno Jallow, also underscored the critical role of religious leaders in promoting peaceful coexistence and preventing social ills.
He called on religious leaders to speak out strongly against violent extremism, terrorism, corruption, human trafficking, kidnapping and other predicate offences.
According to Mr. Jallow, religious leaders should not only speak against such practices but should also demonstrate leadership through their actions and exemplary lifestyles.
The Director of the Financial Intelligence Unit of The Gambia said the seminar provided an important opportunity for the FIU to better understand the practical challenges religious institutions face in managing donations, charitable funds and other financial resources.
“We want to hear your concerns, your experiences, and your recommendations,” the Director said.
The FIU further emphasised the importance of open dialogue and stronger partnerships with religious institutions to ensure that they remain protected from financial abuse while continuing to contribute to peace, tolerance, social cohesion and the wellbeing of communities.
Minister Bah also called on religious institutions to strengthen transparency and accountability in the management of their financial resources.
He urged citizens to remain vigilant and cautioned against allowing the country, its institutions or charitable activities to be exploited for criminal purposes.
The seminar formed part of broader national efforts to strengthen awareness and compliance with AML/CFT measures and to ensure that religious and charitable institutions remain safe from exploitation by individuals and networks involved in financial crimes and terrorism financing.
The Ministry of Lands, Regional Government and Religious Affairs, in collaboration with the Inter-Governmental Action Group against Money Laundering in West Africa (GIABA)
