In a bold demonstration of his commitment to healthcare in The Gambia, philanthropist Momodou Turoo Darboe, officially launched a life-saving surgical camp in Essau on Monday.
Mr. Turoo Darboe, the CEO of Vision Development Foundation (VDF) is running the initiative in collaboration with Dr. Alagie Manneh International Charitable Surgical Foundation (AMISURG Foundation).
The surgical camp is made possible through Darboe’s D400,000 donation to AMISURG and aims to provide free surgeries for 100 patients, helping to reduce the country’s growing surgical backlog. According to sources, the Essau camp follows two previous camps sponsored by Darboe, which together provided critical operations for 181 patients.
During the event, Darboe reaffirmed his pledge to continue supporting individuals who cannot afford the high costs of surgical operations. He also announced that the next camp would be held at Farafenni General Hospital, expanding the foundation’s reach and impact.
Also speaking at the event, Mr. Saikou Fofana, the Public Relations Officer for VDF, highlighted the foundation’s goal of complementing government efforts by supporting the healthcare of underprivileged communities.
The community warmly received Darboe’s gesture. The village Alkalo and district chief publicly thanked him for his compassion, describing the initiative as a lifeline for many who would otherwise be unable to access essential surgical care. Beneficiaries echoed the gratitude, noting that without Darboe’s support, they might not have received the treatment they urgently needed.
Dr. Alagie Manneh, founder of AMISURG Foundation, described the camp as a testament to the transformative power of philanthropy and a clear demonstration of Darboe’s commitment to improving health for Gambia’s most vulnerable citizens. The surgeries, which would typically cost between D50,000 and D70,000, are now accessible to those most in need.