By Amadou Manjang
The Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (TANGO) commemorated World Health Day on Monday, April 7, 2025, by hosting health talks and providing free medical screenings for its members, civil society groups, and the general public.
The event, held at the TANGO premises, featured informative sessions on gastric problems, diabetes, high blood pressure, and eye-related conditions. Seven doctors from Kungälv Hospital in Sweden conducted both the educational presentations and the health screenings, offering free checks for diabetes and hypertension.
In their various presentations, the visiting doctors emphasised the causes, symptoms, and prevention of non-communicable diseases, urging the audience to adopt healthier lifestyles and remain proactive about their health.
World Health Day is celebrated annually on April 7 to mark the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO) in 1948. This year’s theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” focused on promoting early and consistent health care as a foundation for long-term well-being.
Ndey Sireng Bakurin, Executive Director of TANGO, underscored the importance of public awareness on health matters, describing the event as a meaningful way to celebrate the day.
“There is no better way to celebrate World Health Day than by informing people about some of the health issues affecting them,” Bakurin said. “Without good health, there is little or nothing one can do. This kind of initiative contributes immensely to the country’s health development.”
Kristina Lundahl, the Programme Manager of Future in Our Hands- Gambia, explained that this is not the first collaboration with Kungälv Hospital. In 2024, seventeen doctors from the same hospital visited The Gambia, and now, discussions are underway for a formal partnership.
“Kungalv Hospital is looking to sign a Memorandum of Understanding with Serekunda General Hospital for an exchange of doctors and knowledge transfer,” Christian revealed.
As part of their stay, the Swedish medical team has embarked on study tours of health facilities across the country. So far, they have visited Serekunda General Hospital and Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Clinic, with a scheduled visit to Bansang Hospital.
The initiative reflects growing international cooperation in improving health care delivery in The Gambia and aligns with global efforts to ensure access to essential health services for all.
