FULL REPORT: China Medical Team Donates Medication Worth One Million Dalasis to Bansang General Hospital

Written by: Alieu Jallow

The 23rd batch of the China Medical Team has donated essential medicines valued at one million dalasis to Bansang General Hospital, reinforcing healthcare cooperation between The Gambia and the People’s Republic of China. The donation comes alongside a weeklong series of free medical consultations and outreach programmes aimed at improving access to healthcare across the Central River Region.

China’s medical support to The Gambia dates back to the 1970s and 1980s, and has gained renewed momentum over the past decade following the resumption of diplomatic ties in 2016. Over the years, Chinese medical teams have contributed to service delivery, professional training, and knowledge sharing within the country’s health sector.

Chief Executive Officer of Bansang General Hospital, Masirending Njie, said the donation comes at a critical time, pointing to the high cost and short lifespan of medicines.

“Of course, medications are difficult and they are consumable. So sometimes you supply one month and it is finished, you cannot continue. But I think capacity building and equipment is something that will appeal to you people to help. So we want you to extend this on behalf of the staff and management of Bansang Hospital, to the ambassador and the people of China, that we are very grateful, we are happy, and we welcome you all, and we hope that this collaboration will continue,” he said.

Leader of the Chinese medical team, Dr. Lin Lin, reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery through collaboration and shared expertise.

“We will work hand in hand with all of you to improve local health services and safeguard community health. We will uphold the spirit of healing the wounded and rescuing the dying, and continue to contribute to the health of the Gambian people,” he said.

Governor of the Central River Region, Ousman Bah, urged hospital staff to make full use of the team’s presence, while stressing the urgent need for equipment to complement ongoing infrastructure upgrades.

“We have been fortunate to have the new accident and emergency unit by the entrance. The construction will be ready very soon. But it is not only the building, it is what goes inside. The equipment and medication. So we want to appeal if you can extend your hands in that regard as well,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of the Chinese Ambassador, Consul Tong Zhan highlighted China’s continued support to The Gambia’s health sector, including the training of over 200 Gambian health workers in China last year, and pledged to expand such opportunities. He also responded to calls for more frequent medical missions.

“I really agree that our medical team should come here more frequently. Maybe not possible every three months, but at least twice a year. I will try my best to invite the technical medical team to come here more often,” he said.

He added that China remains committed to deepening cooperation with The Gambia, guided by principles of sincerity and mutual benefit, as both countries continue to strengthen ties through practical support in key sectors.

As the outreach continues, communities across the region are expected to benefit from free consultations and medical care, easing pressure on Bansang General Hospital and improving access to essential services in rural areas.