Bakau Fire Station hosted a special ceremony where Sonja Arup received the title of Deputy Chief Fire Officer. The Spanish woman leads Star Up Corazón Solidario charity work across Gambia. Interior Minister Abdoulie Sanyang approved her appointment after fire service leaders recommended her promotion. Defence Minister Sering Modou Njie placed official badges on her uniform during the event. She becomes the first Western woman to hold such a senior emergency services position.
Arup worked with Gambian firefighters for nearly two years before earning the honor. Her charity brought over three million euros worth of vehicles and equipment to the country. Fire trucks and rescue gear helped emergency teams save more lives during disasters. Medical facilities and security forces also benefited from the donated supplies and training programs. Minister Njie said her work improved emergency response systems across all government departments.
The new deputy chief promised to continue helping Gambian people through her service role. She told officials that Gambia holds a special place in her heart and feels like home. High-ranking visitors from Turkey, Spain and United Nations offices attended the ceremony. Tourism Minister Abdoulie Jobe joined other government leaders to witness the historic appointment. The ceremony showed how foreign volunteers can earn respect through dedicated community service.
Arup worked with Gambian firefighters for nearly two years before earning the honor. Her charity brought over three million euros worth of vehicles and equipment to the country. Fire trucks and rescue gear helped emergency teams save more lives during disasters. Medical facilities and security forces also benefited from the donated supplies and training programs. Minister Njie said her work improved emergency response systems across all government departments.
The new deputy chief promised to continue helping Gambian people through her service role. She told officials that Gambia holds a special place in her heart and feels like home. High-ranking visitors from Turkey, Spain and United Nations offices attended the ceremony. Tourism Minister Abdoulie Jobe joined other government leaders to witness the historic appointment. The ceremony showed how foreign volunteers can earn respect through dedicated community service.
