The Gambia’s First Lady, Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow, on Monday inaugurated a state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFST), describing the facility as a “new chapter of hope” for families across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs. Bah-Barrow said the NICU marks a major milestone in the nation’s efforts to improve maternal and newborn healthcare. She emphasized that the unit will provide life-saving treatment for premature and critically ill infants, while strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
“This inauguration is not just the opening of a new building, but the opening of a new chapter of hope for Gambian families,” she said. “This Neonatal Intensive Care Unit represents renewed hope for mothers, reassurance for families, and a stronger healthcare system capable of providing life-saving care.”
The First Lady noted that the investment will equip healthcare workers with the tools needed to save lives and improve outcomes for mothers and babies. She stressed that every life saved at the facility contributes to stronger families, resilient communities, and national development.
Mrs. Bah-Barrow also linked the initiative to The Gambia’s broader push for universal health coverage, ensuring that mothers and newborns have access to quality care regardless of their circumstances.
She commended development partners for their support, singling out the World Bank for its financial contribution, and UNFPA, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization for their technical guidance. “On behalf of the Government and the people of The Gambia, I extend our sincere appreciation to the World Bank for its generous financial support, and to UNFPA, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization for their invaluable technical guidance and strategic partnership,” she said.
The First Lady further praised the Ministry of Health, the Project Coordination Unit, hospital management, and the contractor for their commitment in delivering the facility. She also acknowledged the critical role of doctors, nurses, midwives, and other healthcare workers who will operate the unit.
While celebrating the achievement, Mrs. Bah-Barrow underscored that more work remains to strengthen the country’s healthcare system, including investment in skilled personnel and improved maternal and child health services nationwide.
The new NICU at EFST is expected to significantly enhance specialised treatment for premature and critically ill newborns, improving access to life-saving neonatal care and reducing preventable infant deaths in The Gambia.
