ELEV8 Foundation strengthens emergency care with major mattress donation to Kanifing hospital

The donation was coordinated by the ELEV8 Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of underserved families globally. Since its establishment in 2018, the foundation has supported children and mothers in disadvantaged communities particularly in The Gambia and the United States through education, health, and financial empowerment initiatives.

Dr Lamin Mbye, representing the foundation’s U.S. team, formally handed over the mattresses to Honourable Haddy Nyang Jagne for the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit, in the presence of medical staff and members of the donor family.

Welcoming the delegation, hospital representatives expressed gratitude for what they termed a “beautiful and unexpected” support initiative. Hon. Haddy Nyang Jagne commended the donors for prioritizing healthcare, describing the gesture as noble and timely.

“If there is a word more than ‘thank you,’ I would have used it,” she said. “There is nothing more worthy of emulation than giving to healthcare, for health is wealth.”

Basiru Drammeh, Chief Executive Officer of Kanifing General Hospital, also applauded the contribution. He explained that the new, durable mattresses will greatly reduce the hospital’s costs in constantly replacing low-quality, locally made ones that wear out quickly.

“These are high-class mattresses, and they will help us spend less and redirect funds to essential drugs and laboratory reagents,” he noted.

Drammeh stressed the indispensable role philanthropists play in complementing government efforts, especially given the modest user fees charged at public facilities. He further praised the Mbye and Jallow families for their generosity, emphasising that such investments benefit the entire nation.

“If you invest in Kanifing General Hospital, you are investing in The Gambia,” he said, citing the hospital’s central location and high patient intake.

He also recognised the efforts of local coordinator Zainab, whose dedication ensured the smooth delivery of the donation.

Speaking on behalf of the families, Amadou Jallow said the gesture reflects their ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure. He revealed that the foundation is currently working on improving the maternity ward in Kudang and intends to continue supporting Kanifing General Hospital where possible.

“Where the possibility exists, why not do it?” he remarked.

Hospital management, staff, and patients expressed deep appreciation for the initiative, noting that the upgraded mattresses will enhance patient comfort and support ongoing efforts to improve healthcare delivery nationwide.