Banjul Central National Assembly Member Abdoulie Njai, in collaboration with Al Saaf Foundation donated medical equipment valued at £50,000, approximately D4 million to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul to support its health care delivery and services to the people.
The donated items include vital signs, suction machines, defibrillators, ECG machines, blood pressure cuffs, weighing scales and a monitor which is used to monitor heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, respiratory rate, and other vital signs.
Speaking at the presentation, Hon Njai said the donation was aimed at supporting the hospital and addressing some of its equipment needs.
“Pure intentions matter far more than public praise. The materials we distribute must serve their intended purpose and benefit the people,” he urged.
The lawmaker said his responsibilities as a legislator extend beyond parliamentary duties, adding that community-level interventions can help address challenges that cannot always be resolved through legislation alone.
Dr. Samba Bah, director of administration at EFSTH, welcomed the donation and said the equipment would contribute to patient care noting that the donation brings renewed hope for the quality of care the hospital provides to its patients.
Muhammad Ndow of the Red Cross said the equipment would benefit both Gambians and non-Gambians receiving treatment at the hospital. “The most valuable individuals are those who benefit humanity,” Ndow said, while calling for assistance to be provided without discrimination.
Farimang Sanyang, President of the Student Union Nursing Organisation, described the donation as support for the hospital, its patients and healthcare workers. “This is not just about transferring items; it is about supporting healthcare delivery,” Sanyang said. He called for continued contributions from individuals, organisations and the private sector to complement government efforts in the health sector.