Reposted from VoiceGambia.com
By: Dawda M. Jallow
The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) yesterday received a consignment of medical equipment valued at approximately D14 million, in a move expected to strengthen critical healthcare services across the country.
The donation was made possible through collaboration between the Zakat Foundation and the Sunu Reew Medical Mission.
Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Chief Medical Director of EFSTH, Dr. M. Bittaye, expressed profound gratitude to the donors, describing the gesture as both timely and significant.
He noted that the continued support reflects growing trust and confidence in the institution.
“It is a privilege to witness yet another donation within such a short period. This is largely due to the trust we continue to build, which enables us to attract support from various partners,” Dr. Bittaye said. He thanked all those who contributed to making the donation possible.
He further acknowledged the role of both the Zakat Foundation and Sunu Reew Medical Mission, noting that the equipment comes at a critical time for the health sector.
Items donated include hospital beds, motorbikes, face masks, blood pressure machines, massage chairs and other essential supplies needed to enhance service delivery.
Mrs. Tejiri Jarju, speaking on behalf of Sunu Reew Medical Mission, outlined the organisation’s commitment to improving healthcare in The Gambia.
She explained that since its establishment in 2021, the mission has organised four international outreach programmes and built partnerships with more than 12 institutions across four countries.
She paid tribute to the founder, Victoria Lissong Richards-Ohwotu, highlighting her extensive experience as a physiotherapist and her contributions to training and academic work, including collaborations with EFSTH and other local institutions.
Mrs. Jarju described the donation—a 40-foot container filled with medical supplies—as one of the mission’s most significant contributions to date.
She also acknowledged the support of Mr. and Mrs. Halil and Donna Demir, founders of the Zakat Foundation of America, whose partnership has been instrumental in advancing the initiative.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Charles Roberts, representing the Zakat Foundation of America, reflected on how a simple encounter helped build a partnership that is now transforming lives through medical support and health education.
He noted that beyond equipment donations, the collaboration continues to improve access to care and promote preventive health awareness across communities.
The donation is expected to ease pressure on EFSTH’s resources and enhance its capacity to deliver quality healthcare services nationwide.
