The items donated includes two pediatric Hemodialysis machines with portable reverse osmosis dialysis water treatment plant; 93 PC laptop computers with accessories; 78,000 bottles of paracetamol syrup; 1 laboratory equipment with consumables and reagents;2 creatinine assay kits; 153 PC tablets; 9 patient monitors; 5 vebtilators and 5 oxygen concentrators. The collective value of these contributions, worth over 37 million dalasis, something to officials, stands as a testament to the generosity and unwavering dedication of multiple stakeholders.
Presenting the items, Dr. Desta Tiruneh, WHO Country epresentative, expressed appreciation to be associated with the event, saying the event stands as a testament to the values of collaboration, commitment and the immense power of partnership.
"Today, we find ourselves on the threshold of a truly transformative chapter in our ongoing journey to enhance the health and wellbeing of Gambian population. The collective value of these contribution, worth over 37 million dalasis, according to officials, stands as a testament to the generosity and unwavering dedication of multiple stakeholders."
To that end, WHO Country rep expressed deepest gratitude to the governments of the Federal Republic of Germany, the United States of America and the United Kingdom for their wholehearted support.
He outlined that their combined efforts have paved the way for an endeavour that extends far beyond the realms of materials provision.
"Contained within these donations is an array of resources that spans from cutting-edge computers and PC tablets designed to transform the surveillance system and data management, to indispensable laboratory consumables and advanced equipment that will foster an environment of medical excellence.
He also acknowledged the unwavering long standing collaboration between the WHO and the Ministry of Health.
"The event stands as a testament to our enduring partnership and shared commitment to fostering health of all Gambians."
Dr. Tiruneh reminded people to take a moment and reflect upon the indispensable role those donations played during the crisis, saying in the face of emergencies, the generosity and support of donors proved to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Receiving the items, Dr Ahmadou Lamin Samateh, Minister for Health, expressed appreciation to receive the items behalf of his ministry.
Dr. Samateh spoke highly of the long standing partnership between his Minstry and WHO, saying the event is another manifestation of the partnership that exists between the two institutions.
Also, he noted that there has been a renewed partnership over the last few years between Dr. Desta Tiruneh and him at the helm of affairs at the two institutions.
He recalled that they have both worked together during difficult times and during serene times.
"It has been a challenge in the past years for the entire health system around the globe and The Gambia is not left behind."
"We struggled through the Covid-19 pandemic together, we struggled during the measles outbreaks together and we equally struggled during the AKI outbreak together."
Minister Samateh reminded that the work has been continuing and that it has not been an easy task.
"But nonetheless with perseverance, dedication, hardwork and commitment to national duty, we will go through these difficult times."
Minister Samateh used the platform to speak about some ongoing health infrastructural development currently taking shape at the Ministry, saying the health sector cannot move without investment in health infrastructure, equipment and consumables.
The event was graced officials from UN System, deputy chief of mission US Embassy.
