Association Donates 40-Foot Container of Medical, Educational Supplies to Gambia

A Spain-based charity, Arambia Association Zaragoza, has donated a 40-foot container of medical and educational supplies to health and education institutions across The Gambia.

The consignment was facilitated by Hon Essa Conteh, National Assembly Member for Jimara Constituency, who coordinated clearance and onward distribution.

The container carried essential hospital equipment and learning materials including gloves, syringes, hospital beds, mattresses, nappies, consumables, stretchers, computers, school desks, bicycles and sewing machines.

Health facilities earmarked to benefit include Gambisara Health Centre, Diabugu Health Centre, Sotuma Health Centre, EFSTH, and other facilities nationwide, with priority given to those with the most urgent shortages.

Educational institutions set to receive support include the University of the Gambia, Basse Annex, Gambisara UBS and other schools.

Speaking on the initiative, Hon Conteh said the donation complements government efforts.

“This initiative is not intended to replace the responsibility of the government. It is our modest contribution towards improving healthcare and education in The Gambia,” Conteh said. 

“We are grateful to Arambia Association for partnering with us. Where there is a need, and where we have the capacity to help, we have a responsibility to do so.”

Although he represents Jimara, Conteh stressed that the supplies are for the entire country. 

“Healthcare and education are national priorities. Support should not be limited by political or geographical boundaries,” he said.

Enrique Cardiel, President of Arambia Association, said the association has supported Gambian communities since 2019 and will continue to do so.

“Arambia has sent 71 cubic metres of medical and educational supplies to The Gambia as part of our ongoing support for healthcare and education,” Cardiel said. 

“Some medical supplies will go to hospitals in Banjul and Kanifing, while the majority will be distributed to communities in the interior.”

Cardiel said the shipment was made possible through donations mobilised in Spain, with logistical support from Hon Conteh.

Hon Conteh said he will continue working with the Ministry of Health, education authorities, the University of The Gambia Basse Annex, Arambia Association, development partners, the private sector and civil society to strengthen public institutions.

“No meaningful development can be achieved by one person or organisation alone,” he said. “I thank Arambia Association, government institutions and every individual who contributed — financially, materially or logistically. Every effort mattered.”

He urged continued investment in health and education. 

“A healthier and better-educated Gambia requires all of us. When government efforts are supported by responsible citizens and organisations like Arambia Association, the collective impact can be significant. We will continue to do our part.”