By: Haruna Kuyateh
Residents of Maka Farafeni, including members of the diaspora, have procured a community ambulance to improve emergency transportation for sick and pregnant women to Farafenni General Hospital.
The initiative, described by community members as a major step in strengthening local healthcare delivery, is expected to enhance access to timely medical care and reduce delays in referrals.
Community leaders said the ambulance would particularly benefit maternal and child health services, improving emergency response and saving lives in critical cases.
Alkalo Baboucar Touray welcomed the initiative, expressing appreciation for the community’s unity and commitment to local development. He assured the support of the council of elders for the management and sustainability of the service.
Alhaji Modou Touray said the ambulance service would strengthen the community’s resilience in responding to health emergencies and other humanitarian needs. He also thanked the Kerewan Area Council, chaired by Papa Tunkara, for assisting with the clearance of the ambulance at the border entry point.
The initiative is part of broader efforts to reinforce primary healthcare, which includes health promotion, disease prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care aimed at improving equitable access to health services.
Village Development Committee chairman Tamsir Touray and youth leader Seedy Jobe highlighted the role of community mobilisation, noting that both local and diaspora contributions were key to acquiring the ambulance. They pledged continued support for its operation and commended the Ministry of Health and the Regional Health Directorate in Farafenni, as well as the management of Farafenni General Hospital, for strengthening healthcare delivery.
Community-based companion Fatou Touray described the ambulance as essential for saving lives, particularly in ensuring the timely referral of pregnant women, infants, and the elderly to the hospital.
Youth leader Seedy Jobe also called for greater collaboration and unity in addressing the community’s priority needs, while thanking development partners for their support.
