Addressing journalists on Thursday, 8 January 2026, the association revealed that the fundraising show will take place on 31 January 2026, with a live performance by popular Gambian artist Awa Gambia.
Salieu Nyassi, President of the EFSTH Staff Association, said the initiative is designed to generate much-needed funds to support both hospital staff and patients, adding: “Today’s gathering is to brief the media and the general staff about our fundraising activity coming up on the 31st of January,” Nyassi explained.
“The concept of this fundraising is to mobilise funds and resources for staff welfare and, equally, for patient service delivery.”
Established in January 2025, the association has so far relied on monthly membership contributions. However, Nyassi noted that these funds have proven insufficient to meet growing demands. “We realised that relying solely on monthly deductions is not enough. Growth without resources is difficult, so we decided to embark on fundraising,” he said.
According to the association, proceeds from the event will be transparently distributed, with 75 per cent directed towards staff welfare and 25 per cent earmarked for patient care.
Nyassi highlighted transportation as one of the most pressing challenges hospital staff face. Plans are underway to acquire buses to ease commuting difficulties, reduce congestion, and enhance productivity.
The association has also introduced a land and housing allocation scheme to help staff secure affordable housing—an issue Nyassi described as deeply concerning. “Some staff have worked here for 30 to 40 years and still cannot afford a house. This is very challenging,” he said. “With reasonable funds, we plan to buy land and allocate it to staff at affordable rates.”
In addition, the association operates a medical support scheme for critically ill staff, complementing management’s policy of providing free medical care within the hospital.
Nyassi appealed to the media to partner with the association in sensitising the public and promoting ticket sales and donations.
“We want the media to help us educate the public about this fundraising. We also encourage you to feature our organising committee members on your platforms,” he said.
He further called on government ministries, private institutions, and individuals to support the initiative, describing it as the first in a series of planned fundraising activities.
“This is the first time we are taking this bold step. Its success will give us the courage to continue this journey,” Nyassi added.
The Chief Medical Director of EFSTH, Dr Mustapha Bittaye, expressed strong support for the staff association, describing it as a vital partner in hospital development.
“What we want is beginning to happen, a vibrant staff association that can help management in providing necessary services,” Dr Bittaye said.
He emphasised unity and dialogue as guiding principles for the hospital’s leadership.
“We are one family. We are ready for dialogue, and we have confidence in how the staff association is conducting itself,” he said.
Dr Bittaye assured that management is fully supportive of initiatives that promote both staff development and patient welfare.
“We are happy to be associated with the strides being taken, not only to support staff but also to improve patient care. Where we can support, the hospital will support,” he affirmed.
Both speakers stressed that the EFSTH Staff Association operates independently but works closely with hospital management to improve working conditions and service delivery.
“The staff association is not the management, but a partner to management,” Nyassi said. “We appreciate what management is doing, and we work hand in hand to ensure better outcomes for staff and patients.”
Organisers say the upcoming fundraising show represents a critical step towards building a stronger, more resilient health workforce, one better equipped to deliver quality care to Gambians.
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