By: Dawda Jallow
SICPA Gambia, in partnership with the Occupational Safety and Health Association of The Gambia, on Saturday held a Community Wellness Day at the GCCI Trade Fair Ground in Brusubi, focusing on preventive healthcare, workplace safety and healthier lifestyles.
The initiative brought together health professionals, fitness instructors, corporate representatives and community members for free medical screenings, health education, nutrition awareness and physical fitness activities.
Organisers said the programme aimed to encourage early detection of common health risks, promote healthier lifestyle choices and raise awareness on safety and wellbeing in workplaces, homes and communities.
Participants benefited from free basic health checks, including screenings and wellness consultations, alongside guidance on nutrition, exercise, stress management and healthy living. Fitness sessions were also conducted to demonstrate simple physical activities that can be incorporated into daily routines.
President of the Occupational Safety and Health Association of The Gambia, Momodou Ceesay, said the initiative was driven by rising cases of hypertension, diabetes and obesity in the country.
He said health and safety should be prioritised in all environments, including homes, workplaces, farms and transport systems, adding that many non-communicable diseases are linked to lifestyle choices.
Ceesay urged the public to adopt preventive habits such as regular exercise, healthy eating and stress management, noting that even simple activities like walking and stretching can significantly improve wellbeing.
General Manager of SICPA Gambia, Momodou Clark Jarra, said the wellness programme forms part of the company’s corporate social responsibility and commitment to community development.
He said the company plans to expand similar initiatives to other parts of the country, adding that public response to the event showed growing awareness of the importance of preventive healthcare.
Beneficiaries welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and educational. Yusupha Keita said the programme provided useful knowledge on maintaining better health and reducing the risk of illness.
Another participant, Aramat Sankareh, also praised the organisers for offering free health services and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Organisers said they hope to make the Community Wellness Day a regular initiative aimed at strengthening health awareness and promoting preventive care across the country.
