The Gambia has received 10 fully equipped ambulances and essential medical equipment through a regional health initiative financed by the African Development Bank Group, strengthening emergency response, medical diagnosis, and access to healthcare services across the country.
The equipment was officially handed over in Banjul on July 9, 2026, during a ceremony attended by government officials, representatives from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the West African Health Organization (WAHO), development partners, and diplomatic representatives.
The support is part of the African Development Bank Group’s Regional COVID-19 Response Project, which is being implemented by WAHO across ECOWAS member states. The regional initiative is valued at approximately $22.38 million, with The Gambia receiving around $3.4 million in assistance.
The healthcare package includes four-wheel-drive ambulances, haemodialysis machines, X-ray and ultrasound equipment, anaesthesia machines, oxygen concentrators, and other critical medical supplies. The resources are expected to improve emergency referrals, strengthen diagnostic services, and expand access to essential treatment.
Beyond medical equipment, the project has also contributed to strengthening healthcare capacity by training more than 1,400 health professionals. Training areas include disease surveillance, infection prevention and control, field epidemiology, and maintenance of biomedical equipment.
Officials highlighted the importance of continued investment in resilient healthcare systems and stronger regional cooperation to improve public health preparedness.
Gambia’s Minister of Health Ahmadou Lamin Samateh described the support as a major milestone for the country’s healthcare sector, noting that it represents the largest single contribution of ambulances received from one institution.
The African Development Bank Group emphasized that the investment goes beyond infrastructure by supporting patients, healthcare workers, and institutions responsible for protecting public health.
The initiative reflects collaboration between the Gambian government, ECOWAS, WAHO, the African Development Bank Group, the Government of Germany, and other development partners working to improve health security across West Africa.
As the new ambulances and medical equipment are introduced into healthcare services, effective maintenance, trained personnel, and strong management systems will be essential to ensure long-term benefits.
The investment is expected to reduce delays in emergency care, improve healthcare delivery, and strengthen The Gambia’s ability to respond to future health emergencies.
