By Joshua Sahr Pettiquoi
In an effort to address the challenges affecting emergency referral operations and enhance healthcare delivery in Kono District, the Kono Mineral Mining Review Project (KMMRP), in partnership with the Kono Union in the Diaspora, has donated five brand new tires to the National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) in Kono District. This initiative was led by the Chairman of the Council of Paramount Chiefs in Kono, PC Sahr Edward Mbawa.
The donation followed a request from the District Operations Supervisor for NEMS in Kono, who sought support for new tires due to the wear and tear on one of the district’s ambulances. NEMS, a crucial component of the Ministry of Health, responds to medical emergencies involving pregnant women, lactating mothers, children under five, and other health crises across the district.
Over time, NEMS operations have faced significant delays due to mechanical issues with their vehicles. Responding to this urgent need, PC Sahr Edward Mbawa highlighted the critical role of KMMRP and the Kono Union in addressing this challenge, ensuring enhanced medical services in the district.
PC Sahr Edward Mbawa expressed his gratitude to KMMRP and the Kono Union for their financial support in procuring and maintaining the new tires. He emphasized the importance of such contributions to improving healthcare services and called on other Kono residents to follow this exemplary support.
Saa Mockaimakoe Famanda, the Country Director of KMMRP, noted that the support came in partnership with the Kono Union in the Diaspora, with Vice President Sia Sumana serving as the founding chairperson of KMMRP. Famanda highlighted that this support is one of several interventions aimed at addressing the historical injustices faced by the district.
Famanda expressed concern over the fact that Kono, a diamond-rich district hosting a major multinational mining company, struggles with such basic needs. He reiterated KMMRP’s commitment to promoting the review of mining policies to benefit the district’s residents.
District Medical Officer Dr. Mohamed Gbessay Sheku extended his gratitude to KMMRP and the Kono Union for their timely intervention. He emphasized that continued support would ensure effective medical services in the district.
Joyce Senessie, the District Operations Supervisor for NEMS in Kono, thanked KMMRP and the Kono Union, noting that the support has significantly boosted their emergency operations, aiding efforts to reduce maternal mortality in the district.
Ibrahim A.S. Bockarie, District Coordinator for KMMRP in Kono, assured that they would continue to advocate for responsible and just mining practices, ensuring that the district benefits from its mineral resources, truly living up to its reputation as the “breadbasket of Sierra Leone.”
