Different
philanthropists have different views about what makes society better off. And
there is nothing more rewarding than giving back to your country as the one
stands to benefit is immeasurable.
It’s
been reported in our today’s edition about a modest of cartons of disposable
gloves and aprons by Action Gambia, a Norway-based NGO to Edward Francis Small
Teaching Hospital (EFSTH). The move is indeed laudable and important. We all
know the importance of disposable gloves and aprons, which is to create a
barrier between germs and your hands. Wearing disposable gloves in the hospital
helps prevent the spread of germs.
Health
is central in any country’s development. And ensuring quality healthcare
remains a key concern to many governments around the word. With limited
resources at hand couple with other challenges sometimes hinders access to
quality and affordable healthcare a far-fetch dream for many developing
countries, The Gambia included.
Governments
even in the West we all know cannot do it all. Ensuring quality health,
therefore calls for multi-faceted approach and combination of efforts. This
makes the role of private sector and individual donors central in this regard.
Healthcare
workers who wear gloves while treating patients are much less likely to clean
their hands before and after patient contact, according to a study.
On
the other hand, aprons are also included as part of healthcare workers personal
protective measures.
We
therefore commend the Norway-based NGO for its foresight and generosity. We
also call on other Gambians in the Diaspora to be part and parcel of the
development process.
To
be part of the development process doesn’t mean they have to spend millions of
dalasis, but any little token; whether in kind or cash and that goes towards
making a difference in the lives of others is part of contributing to national
development.
Remember
that Albert Schweitzer once famously stated that: “The only ones among you who
will be really happy are those who will have sought and found how to serve.”
‘‘When
you’re in a position to have gotten so much, the gift at this point is giving
back.’’
Paul
Stanley
