By Yunus S. Saliu
The Sunshine With Smiles Trust (SWST) on Thursday, 3rd April, officially handed over a Hologic Mammography Machine to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) in Banjul. The event was marked by the unveiling of the machine immediately following the handover ceremony.
In his speech delivered on behalf of the Minister of Health, Lamin Dampha, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, expressed the government’s deep gratitude to SWST for their continued generosity and support to the hospital and the nation as a whole.
He further acknowledged their vital role in advancing the health sector in The Gambia, stating, “You are helping us live our mission of making The Gambia’s health sector one of the best in the sub-region.” He emphasized that the mammography machine donated by SWST would play a crucial role in making that mission a reality.
PS Dampha went on to thank SWST for its significant contributions, noting that the hospital is now better equipped to provide care and reduce mortality rates. “Your support is vital in helping us achieve our mission of improving healthcare in the country,” he said.
He also highlighted the government’s objective of expanding medical equipment in the hospital, which will empower health workers to deliver high-quality services and reduce the need for patients to seek treatment abroad.
The Permanent Secretary concluded his remarks by extending heartfelt thanks to SWST for their unwavering support.
Dr. Mustapha Bittaye, Chief Medical Director at EFSTH, also expressed his sincere appreciation to the members of SWST, acknowledging their efforts and presence at the handover ceremony.
He stressed the importance of maintaining the mammography machine and assured the donors that it would be put to excellent use in the fight against breast cancer.
Dr. Steven Bick, Chairman of the Sunshine With Smiles Trust, thanked the hospital management for their cooperation and shared his personal connection to The Gambia. He recalled an encounter with a local head teacher, which ultimately led to the provision of the mammography machine.
Dr. Bick explained that at with the support of the Aid to Gambia Charity, he was able to source the machine and transport it from the UK to the hospital.
He expressed his satisfaction in seeing the machine up and running, confident that it would greatly assist in the early detection of breast cancer, giving women a better chance for treatment and recovery.
“Cancer is a relentless disease, but early detection can make all the difference,” he said. “It is my great pleasure to officially donate this mammogram machine to the hospital. I trust that the hospital staff will take excellent care of it, ensuring it remains in top condition and serves the community for many years to come.”
Dr. Bello, Head of the Radiology Department at EFSTH, also spoke briefly at the event and delivered a vote of thanks on behalf of the hospital.
