By Fatou Bojang
In a significant step towards enhancing healthcare services in The Gambia, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the government of China have concluded their China Aid Project by handing over vital medical equipment and supplies to the Ministry of Health.
This initiative aims to improve reproductive health services and reduce maternal mortality rates in the country, which currently stands at 289 deaths per 100,000 live births.
In a ceremony held at the Central Medical Stores in Kotu, UNFPA Country Representative Ndey Rose Sarr emphasized the importance of the partnership with the Chinese government and highlighted the project’s achievements since its inception on December 31, 2020. “The initiative, funded with a budget of $620,000, was launched in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and focused on strengthening national healthcare capacity, particularly in sexual and reproductive health services,” she said.
The project has successfully provided critical medical equipment, including 60 delivery beds, five anesthetic machines, 10 oxygen concentrators, and 1,000 dignity kits to enhance maternal care. “The primary objective of this partnership was to strengthen The Gambia’s national capacity to respond to health challenges, particularly for women and young adults,” she added.
Sarr reaffirmed UNFPA’s dedication to improving reproductive health and rights for women and girls in The Gambia, stating, “We are resolute in our commitment to reduce maternal mortality rates and ensure every woman has access to quality healthcare.”
Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Ahmad Lamin Samateh, expressed gratitude for the continued support from UNFPA and China, recognizing that the medical supplies received will significantly enhance the quality of maternal care nationwide. He noted the urgent need for dignity kits, mentioning that The Gambia records approximately 80,000 deliveries annually, highlighting the necessity for 80,000 dignity kits to meet the needs of all women delivering in hospitals.
“Today, the items we receive here are remarkable; the provision of anesthetic machines and delivery beds will facilitate safer childbirth experiences,” Samateh added, underscoring the importance of quality healthcare in reducing maternal mortality.
Chinese Ambassador Jin Lui reiterated his country’s commitment to supporting The Gambia’s public health initiatives, stating, “China is a reliable partner of Gambia; we stand firmly with our Gambian friends in developing your public health services.” He highlighted the successful collaboration through the China Aid Project, which has already contributed $6 million in medical assistance since 2020.
This partnership is said to mark a pivotal moment in The Gambia’s healthcare journey. It hopes to further advance maternal health services and foster ongoing collaboration between UNFPA, the Ministry of Health, and the Chinese government.
The collective aim is to create a healthier future for women and children in The Gambia, ultimately striving to meet international standards set by the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
