By: Momodou Gagigo
In a heartwarming act of generosity, Spanish-based Gambian philanthropist Nfanding Trawally has donated essential medical drugs and equipment to the Madiana Community Clinic, providing a vital lifeline to hundreds of residents in the Kombo East district who have long struggled with inadequate healthcare access.
The donation, which includes surgical materials, blood pressure monitors, glucose testing kits, hypertension and diabetes medications, and wound dressing supplies, addresses critical shortages that have hampered the clinic’s ability to serve women, children, and the elderly. Local leaders say the items will dramatically improve the facility’s capacity during peak malaria season and for managing chronic illnesses.
Sanusi Sillah, the village Alkalo, fought back tears as he received the supplies. “This will go a long way in helping us combat the challenges we face with a lack of drugs. These drugs are better than the local ones sold in pharmacies. We are in the rainy season, when malaria is most prevalent. I thank the donor for this wonderful gesture and urge him to continue so others can imitate him.”
Kawsu Sillah, speaking for the Village Development Committee, described the clinic as a community-initiated partnership struggling to function without government support. “Madiana is a big village but doesn’t have a standard health post,” he said. “We are just managing. Health is crucial in human life—this donation means everything to us.”
Clinic administrator Lamin Sorra called the delivery “a game-changer.” “They brought a lot: medications for hypertension, diabetes, dressing materials—things that will definitely help the community,” he said. Enrolled nurse Ebrima Jallow added that the supplies would strengthen nurse-patient relationships by ending the heartbreak of having to turn patients away because of empty shelves.
Representing the donor, Sumpu Conteh emphasized that the initiative was driven purely by compassion. “This is not about attention-seeking or politics—it’s about helping Gambians,” Conteh said. “We are publicizing it so other diaspora Gambians will emulate the gesture. We hope to give more support in the future.”
Community members gathered outside the clinic cheered as boxes were unloaded, with mothers clutching babies and elders wiping away tears of relief. For a village that has relied on makeshift solutions for years, Tuesday’s donation marked a turning point.
Residents now hope the gift will inspire sustained support and eventually lead to a fully equipped health facility.
