The celebration was graced by His Excellency Ambassador Ruben Garcia Abelenda, head of the Cuban medical team, Modou Peh J. Grant, President of the Gambia Cuba Friendship Association, doctors, graduates and technicians from both the Gambia and Cuba. Research documents in different specialties with the purpose of contributing to better and more effective health care were presented to the audience.
In an interview with Ambassador Ruben, he dwelled on the significance of the event, saying that the occasion gathered professionals from both countries to work together for better healthcare delivery to the people of The Gambia. He added that all the scientific work would help in the future to improve medical assistance.
He continued that this kind of event has one objective; which is to unite the people of The Gambia and Cuba while reiterating that it is important to work together to promote international and bilateral relations between the two countries.
"The event is another example of solidarity and mutual collaboration that exist between both countries. We know the people of The Gambia have appreciated our contribution and that is what we are interested in. We will continue helping Gambia. Gambia requested our stay and we will continue to be here forever because this is what we are taught to do."
On the working environment of the Cuban doctors, Ambassador Ruben stated that the doctors get all the respect of The Gambia government. He added that there are things that need to be improved though acknowledging they understand the situation of The Gambia.
Dr. Juan Oquendo Montes, head of the Cuban medical team told this medium that they have about 100 Cuban collaborators, ranging from technicians and doctors specialised in surgical, clinical and more fields.
He narrated that a Gambian friend of Cuba once said that ‘Cuba is the most African country out of Africa’. He further explained that when they were boys, they were taught about African roots.
"Being black or white, we have an African root. In our studies, we were taught many facts about our country and Africa. The first official collaboration of Cuba was an African country. That's why we felt very happy when we came here because we found a climate similar to ours. Gambian health personnel are good people and that's why we are very pleased to be here," he stated.
On the improvement of the country’s healthcare system, he said The Gambia has the will and the political intention to improve the healthcare sector, adding that the Ministry of Health and the President know their situation through the ambassador to increase some specialties that are needed.
"This comes in two parallel ways; which is the continued formation of health professionals in The Gambia and also not allowing the lack of the professionals."
He talked about the Cuban President’s official invitation to President Barrow, saying he hoped that the two countries would extend collaboration in the field of culture and sports.
He hailed Gambia for being peaceful, saying "I have travelled to many African countries but The Gambia is the calmest country and that has to be kept. We feel very secure in the country and as a result, we don’t want to leave."
