Banjul, The Gambia - In a poignant ceremony held at the State House in the country's capital, His Excellency President Adama Barrow bid farewell to Dr. Desta Tiruneh, the outgoing World Health Organization (WHO) representative in The Gambia. The event, attended with select WHO staff members, celebrated Dr. Tiruneh's transformative leadership during his tenure in the country.

Dr. Tiruneh commenced the proceedings by chronicling the remarkable strides made under his stewardship. Through strategic partnerships and concerted efforts, WHO facilitated in the establishment of state-of-the-art healthcare facilities across the country by equipping them with new medical equipment, training of new healthcare workforce, and ensuring the continuity of services - thereby ensuring equitable access to quality medical services across the nation. The procurement of essential medical supplies, including antibiotics and advanced laboratory equipment, bolstered the country's healthcare infrastructure, fortifying its response capabilities to emerging health challenges.

The establishment of critical infrastructure such as waste management and oxygen plants underscored WHO's commitment to enhancing the resilience of The Gambia's healthcare system. Dr. Tiruneh highlighted the pivotal role played by these initiatives in bolstering public health resilience and mitigating the impact of health crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and acute kidney injury (AKI) crisis that grappled the country.

Amidst these achievements, Dr. Tiruneh celebrated The Gambia's triumph in eradicating trachoma, a testament to the nation's dedication to eliminating preventable diseases. He commended the government's proactive stance on immunization, disease control, and tobacco regulation, initiatives that garnered international recognition for their efficacy in safeguarding public health.

Expressing optimism for the nation's future, Dr. Tiruneh underscored the importance of sustained collaboration between government entities, international organizations, and healthcare stakeholders. He applauded President Barrow's visionary leadership and the steadfast commitment of the Honorable Minister of Health, Dr. Amadou L. Samateh, whose tireless efforts have propelled The Gambia towards a healthier, more resilient future.

President Barrow, in turn, extended heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Tiruneh for his exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to advancing healthcare in The Gambia. He lauded WHO's pivotal role in supporting the nation's healthcare agenda, emphasizing the transformative impact of collaborative initiatives on population health outcomes.

Reflecting on The Gambia's healthcare achievements, President Barrow reiterated health as a top priority within the national development framework. He underscored the significance of initiatives such as the health insurance scheme, which has expanded access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations, and infrastructure enhancements aimed at improving healthcare delivery and accessibility.

In recognition of WHO's multifaceted support, President Barrow highlighted the organization's pivotal role in facilitating the increase of tobacco levies, a landmark achievement that not only bolstered national revenue but also curtailed tobacco consumption rates, safeguarding public health and economic prosperity.

As Dr. Tiruneh embarks on his new role as WHO representative in Zimbabwe, his legacy of transformative healthcare initiatives in The Gambia serves as a testament to the power of collaboration and collective action in driving meaningful change. With unwavering commitment from government leadership, healthcare stakeholders, and international partners, The Gambia stands poised to build upon its successes, ushering in a future of enhanced health and well-being for all its citizens.