The send-off, held at the hospital grounds, brought together management, staff, community members and government representatives to celebrate the dedicated service of Dr Cham, a chief driver and two nurses whose years of commitment have significantly shaped maternal and child healthcare delivery in The Gambia.
Delivering a heartfelt tribute, Principal Nursing Officer Amie Njie described the retirees as pillars of commitment whose years of sacrifice helped shape the hospital’s reputation for quality care.
She said their unwavering dedication, often demonstrated through demanding responsibilities, long shifts and personal sacrifice, had left an indelible mark on the institution and the lives of countless patients.
“This occasion gives us the opportunity to recognise their invaluable contributions and to express our sincere appreciation for the positive impact they have made not only within public health administration but also among patients, colleagues and the wider community,” she stated.
Njie added that the legacy of the retirees would continue to inspire those still in service, urging staff to uphold discipline, teamwork and compassion in healthcare delivery.
“Today, we celebrate you not only for the years you have given, but for the lives you have touched. Your service will always be remembered with pride and respect,” she said.
Speaking on behalf of the National Assembly Member for Bundung, Sulayman Jammeh, Aji Amie Jatta conveyed the community’s appreciation for the hospital’s continuous support and quality care.
She noted that residents of Bundung remain grateful for the commitment shown by staff and encouraged them to sustain their humility, hard work and dedication to service.
Also addressing the gathering, Dr Mass Njie, speaking on behalf of the Chair of the Association of Public Hospitals, commended BMCH for its professionalism and commitment to healthcare delivery.
He paid special tribute to Dr Mamady Cham for what he described as exemplary leadership and remarkable achievements across the country.
According to him, Dr Cham’s success was built on discipline, patience and an unwavering commitment to serving people.
“If you want to achieve what he has achieved, you must be patient and ready to put patients first,” he advised.
In his remarks, the outgoing CEO, Dr Mamady Cham, expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a step in the right direction.
He acknowledged the strong support he received from the Bundung community since assuming office in May 2022, noting that their appreciation and engagement had been a constant source of motivation.
“The common denominator in all we do is the patient,” he emphasised. “Whatever our role, let us focus on the patient, treat them with respect and dignity, and ensure they leave satisfied.”
Dr Cham, however, cautioned staff about the growing importance of accountability in healthcare, warning against complacency in service delivery.
He highlighted the increasing risks of medical litigation, noting that even treatments provided years ago could resurface as legal cases.
“We must always do our best under any circumstances so that there is no room for negligence,” he said.
He further urged staff to continuously strive for excellence, stressing that maintaining or improving quality of care is the only acceptable path for the hospital.
“You either improve or maintain standards but you must never go backwards,” he warned.
Reflecting on the evolution of the health sector, he noted that opportunities for professional development have significantly improved, encouraging younger staff to take advantage of available training and education.
Staff Welfare President Jim Jobe also paid tribute to the retirees, acknowledging their immense contributions to the development of the country’s health sector.
He highlighted Dr Cham’s historic role as the first nurse in The Gambia to rise to the position of Chief Medical Director, describing it as a legacy that would inspire future generations.
Jobe urged staff to remain united and committed, stressing that discipline, respect and professionalism must continue even in the absence of outgoing leadership.
“Let us not say Dr Cham is no longer here and then abandon the standards he helped build. We must move BMCH to another level,” he said.
Representing the Minister for Health, Dr Awa Dibba commended the hospital for initiating what she described as a commendable culture of recognising service.
She expressed appreciation to the retirees and sought forgiveness on behalf of the ministry for any unintended grievances during their years of service.
“Whatever we did was to ensure that our patients receive the best care possible,” she said.
Dr Dibba further urged other health institutions across the country to emulate BMCH’s example by celebrating retiring staff and promoting a culture of appreciation within the sector.
She concluded with prayers for the retirees, asking for divine blessings for their service to the nation.
The ceremony ended on an emotional note, with staff and community members expressing gratitude and bidding farewell to colleagues whose dedication has helped shape one of the country’s key maternal and child health institutions.
As BMCH turns a new chapter, the legacy of those honoured remains firmly embedded in its foundation, serving as a reminder that behind every healthcare milestone are individuals whose compassion and commitment continue to save lives.
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