WAHO Supports The Gambia with Ambulances and Critical Medical Equipment to Strengthen National Health Systems
232news –
The West African Health Organisation (WAHO), through the African Development Bank (AfDB)-supported Regional COVID-19 Response Project, has handed over 10 ambulances and a consignment of critical medical equipment to the Government of The Gambia to strengthen emergency response, healthcare delivery, and national health system resilience.
The reception took place on 30 April 2026 in Banjul, in the presence of representatives from the Ministry of Health of The Gambia, WAHO, the African Development Bank, and national health stakeholders.
Representing WAHO at the ceremony were Dr Virgil Kuassi Lokossou, Dr Lionel Sogbossi, Dr Aishat Usman, Dr Thierno Barry, Mr Richard Combary, Mr Adamou Kimba and Mr Samson Ayeni, all members of the COVID-19 AfDB Project Implementation Team, while the African Development Bank was represented by Mr Koffi Ange Houngbedji, Task Team Leader of the regional project.
Beyond the ambulances, the intervention includes the delivery of essential biomedical and diagnostic equipment aimed at improving emergency care, intensive care capacity, diagnostics, infection prevention and control, and specialised clinical services across the country. The equipment package includes oxygen concentrators, haemodialysis machines, anaesthetic machines, X-ray machines, ultrasound scanners, monitors, autoclaves, laryngoscopes, aerosol and decontamination equipment, and other critical medical devices intended to reinforce healthcare delivery nationwide.
Speaking during the handover, stakeholders highlighted the importance of sustained regional solidarity and strategic investments in resilient health systems capable of responding effectively to emergencies and future public health threats. The ambulances and medical equipment are expected to significantly improve referral systems, timely access to lifesaving services, and the quality of care provided to vulnerable populations throughout The Gambia.
This support forms part of WAHO’s broader commitments to accompanying ECOWAS Member States in strengthening health security, expanding equitable access to quality healthcare services, and enhancing preparedness and response capacities through targeted regional interventions and partnerships.
WAHO reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with the Government of The Gambia, the African Development Bank, and other partners to ensure the effective deployment, installation, operationalization, and sustainable use of the equipment for maximum impact on population health outcomes.
The delivery further demonstrates the strong partnership between WAHO, the African Development Bank, and ECOWAS Member States in advancing resilient, responsive, and people-centred health systems across West Africa.
