The move is also meant to create a safer environment through risk mitigation, public awareness, and policy development.
Abdou Ceesay, president of FOHSMN and a certified Health and Safety Officer, expressed the foundation’s commitment to promoting safety awareness across The Gambia.
He highlighted that their primary vision is to ensure every Gambian understands essential safety protocols, whether dealing with fire outbreaks, environmental hazards, or health crises.
“Our mission is to engage relevant ministries, raise public awareness, and mobilize support for the smooth operation of the foundation.”
Sanna Dahaba, Director of National Disaster Management Agency, recognised the role played by the foundation in their ongoing advocacy against environmental hazards, stressing the need for urgent measures for improved safety measures in critical sectors such as traffic management, construction, and industrial operations.
“The challenges in ensuring safety are significant, especially in high-risk sectors. There must be policies or insurance plans in place to protect people’s health and safety,”
Dahaba encouraged members of the foundation focus on public education campaigns addressing workplace safety and health insurance coverage during travel or at work.
Additionally, he recommended the need for FOHSMN to prepare a comprehensive budget proposal with all supporting documents to facilitate the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with relevant agencies.
Ebrima Jawara, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, welcomed the initiative and urged the foundation to outline a clear action plan detailing how they intend to collaborate with the ministry. He reaffirmed the ministry’s readiness to support efforts aimed at reducing environmental health hazards across the country.
FOHSMN’s collaboration with these stakeholders marks a significant step toward building a safer and healthier environment for all Gambians.
