By Mariam Williams
Direct-Aid-The Gambia has donated 10,000 face masks to the Ministry of Health as their contribution to the fight against Covid-19 pandemic in the country.
Speaking at a presentation held in Banjul, Minister Ahmad Lamin Samateh acknowledged that Direct-Aid had been a longstanding partner of the government and the people of Republic of The Gambia.
Adding that Direct-Aid has equally, been a very good partner to his Ministry, Dr. Samateh intimated they are aware of the active role Direct-Aid The Gambia is playing in contributing to the welfare of the people of this country.
The Health Minister continued that the relationship had been very beneficial to the needy communities in the Gambia apart from the health sector.
“We are equally aware that Direct-Aid has been contributing a whole lot to the welfare of the under-privileged in the country,” said Dr. Samateh.
He charged that this good gesture must continue because they are highly needed by the people of this country, much especially for the under-privileged. “But I want to tell you that this donation of face masks will really help”, Dr. Samateh reassured, noting also it would go a long way in the fight against the deadly pandemic in the country.
He also described the donation as “very timely because it comes at the right time. I assure you that these donated face masks will be put into good use for the benefit of others who need it”.
The Minister informed the gathering that the Gambia government is appreciative of the donation, and said the partnership between Direct-Aid The Gambia and the government will continue by the grace of God.
Abdellatif Ourahou, the Country Director of Direct-Aid The Gambia Office, said they are very glad to donate the Health Ministry in contributing to the fight against Covid-19.
He thanked Minister Samateh and the entire ministry for accepting their donation.
The Country Director believes the only way to fight this pandemic is to come together and support each other.
Mr. Ansumana Kinteh, of Direct-Aid, in his remarks said: “We all know Covid-19 has got a multi-dimensional impact on our lives; and Direct-Aid The Gambia being an organisation-NGO, we thought it necessary to support and do our quota in the fight against this deadly pandemic”.