By: Haruna Kuyateh
The Kiang and Badibou Association on Saturday presented medicines valued at D100,000 to Kerewan Health Centre and five other health facilities in LRR and NBR.
The presentation ceremony was held at Kerewan Health facility in the North Bank Region and the donation aimed to complement government’s efforts in strengthening healthcare service delivery in the country.
Ousman Touray, chairman of the association, highlighted the significance of the association’s formation in 2021. He explained that its main objective was to foster a cordial relationship between the peoples of Kiang and Badibou to promote social cohesion and conflict resolution. He added that the maiden presentation demonstrated the association’s commitment to resource mobilisation, transparency, and accountability in implementing community projects.
Chairman Touray thanked the management of Kerewan Health Centre for their collaboration and called on them to ensure the proper and effective use of the donated medicines. He also commended members of the association, both in The Gambia and the diaspora, for their contributions, saying the gesture would inspire future generations to better understand the historic bond between Kiang and Badibou.
Lamin Taal, the association’s treasurer, disclosed that a total of D100,000 was spent to purchase medicines for six health centres. These included Kerewan, Salikene, and Illiasa Health Centres in the Badibous, and Kaif, Kwinella, and Jali Health Centres in Kiang. He emphasised that the association was non-political and non-religious, and its main goal was to strengthen family ties and support grassroots development initiatives.
Aja Sanneh, the Public Relations Officer, and Lamin Ousman Ceesay, Assistant Secretary, both reiterated the association’s commitment to peace building and conflict resolution. They urged residents of Kiang and Badibou to support the association’s noble cause to promote unity and cooperation.
Receiving the medicines on behalf of Kerewan Health Centre, Dr. Ismaila Jobe, a physician, thanked the association for complementing the Ministry of Health’s efforts. He also commended the people of Kerewan and surrounding communities for their continued support to the health sector.
Bakary Fatty, the Alkalo of Kerewan, speaking on behalf of the Lower Badibou Chief and as chairman of the Kerewan Health Centre Catchment Area Committee, described the donation as timely and significant. He noted that the gesture would enhance public trust and community participation in health initiatives.
