Sickle Cell Association Banjul Chapter meets WHO representative

The Sickle Cell Association Banjul Chapter met the World Health Organisation's country representative at his Kotu office with their adviser Dr. Gaye.

The Association's PRO, Austin Kanjia, speaking on the occasion, told the WHO representative and his colleagues, "We are aware that the sickle cell organisation is contributing significantly to the health sector. We want to be recognised as part of the organisation's supporting government in the health sector. The organisation would like to solicit assistance from your office, and other necessary assistance you can render to see the association succeed. We are aware of our limitations in our quest to do more to help those suffering from the disease. We would like you to help in all our planning, recognising that education, information and communication technologies should play a crucial role in preventing sickle cell anaemia, and that there is an urgent need to create an effective training programme in the country," he said.

Mr. Kanjia called the sickness a public health problem, and said it was important to establish national programmes and have specialised centres for the treatment of sickle cell anaemia, and to facilitate access to treatment.

Dr. Thomas Sukwa, the WHO representative, said they deal with health issues in the country, and they are aligned with the Ministry of Health. "We are happy to meet you, and to know where and how to help. I have a fair knowledge on the sickle cell disease. We shall also involve you when journalists are invited so that your voices can be heard. We shall connect you with important sources, and our resource centre is open for you to do your research." Other speakers were Dr. Jawla, Mr. Jargo, and Mr. Gassama all working at the WHO country office.