Riders for Health has donated three ambulances to health facilities in rural Gambia in a move aimed at improving emergency healthcare access for hard-to-reach communities.
The vehicles were handed over on Thursday at the organization’s headquarters and allocated to Farato Medical Clinic, Foni Berefet, and Ndikiri Kunda Health Centre. Although the ambulances are used, Riders for Health confirmed they have been fully serviced and equipped with standard accessories to ensure reliable operations.
Speaking at the presentation, Ousman Yabo, Chairman of Riders for Health, said the donation reflects the organisation’s mission to ensure healthcare is accessible to every Gambian, regardless of location. “These vehicles will strengthen referral systems and improve timely access to care. We urge the recipient health centers to use them responsibly for the benefit of patients,” Yabo said. He added that Riders for Health will continue to provide free maintenance services for the ambulances, while the beneficiary clinics will cover the cost of spare parts when needed.
The donation was received with gratitude from the beneficiary communities. Lamin MJ Sanyang of Foni Berefet described it as a “lifeline” for his community, recalling the tragic loss of a family member who died due to lack of timely transport to hospital. “This ambulance will help prevent families from going through what we went through. It will save lives,” he said.
Marie Bass Gomez, founder of the Kharis Reproductive and Child Health Clinic, commended Riders for Health for their continued commitment to strengthening the health system. Another beneficiary, Yoro Sowe, said the vehicles will ease the burden on patients who often travel long distances to access care.
With many rural communities facing severe transport challenges, the new ambulances are expected to play a critical role in advancing The Gambia’s emergency response system. Health officials believe the vehicles will not only improve patient referrals but also contribute significantly to reducing preventable deaths.
