The Ghanaian Contingent of the ECOWAS Mission in The Gambia (ECOMIG GHANCOY 9) has launched a four-day blood donation exercise at Essau Government Hospital, reinforcing military-civil cooperation while addressing a critical need in the country’s health sector.
The initiative, running from September 15 to 18, 2025, aims to replenish blood banks to support patients requiring urgent transfusions due to trauma, surgery, chronic illnesses, cancer treatment, and other medical emergencies. The blood collected will not only strengthen Essau Government Hospital’s capacity but also benefit other health facilities across the North Bank Region.
Hospital Administrator Almami Fofana described the gesture as “timely and impactful”, stressing that it will save lives and enhance the hospital’s emergency response capabilities.
Spearheading the drive, Captain Albert Kwarteng Adjei, GHANCOY 9’s Medical Officer, underscored the contingent’s commitment to community well-being. “Beyond our peacekeeping mandate, we believe in extending a helping hand where it matters most – saving lives,” he said.
The exercise highlights the significance of civil-military relations, as ECOMIG’s humanitarian role continues to strengthen ties between peacekeepers and Gambian communities. By boosting the hospital’s blood reserves, the initiative ensures improved readiness of the health system to respond to crises while cementing the military’s image as a partner in nation-building.
