We have been observing with great interest the unfolding development within the health sector. We feel obliged to make a few comments, as our contribution to this evolutionary trend. The media, having been described as a key partner, owe a lot to the public for the successful implementation of every development program.

A prosperous society is based on a healthy society. The African continent, unfortunately, happens to be synonymous with diseases of all kinds; partly because of our relationship with another menace, poverty, and also because of our geographical location. This explains why the health sector requires a great portion of the national wealth of our countries.

Of late, however, a handful of countries have been making great strides. Among them is The Gambia - backed by a prudent health policy and programs. This, coupled with an enforced political support, has provided the space for a cordial relationship between the country’s health department and its partner organisations, the UN agencies as well as NGOs. This has ensured the willing participation of all stakeholders, and has greatly accelerated the smooth transformation of the sector. The WHO, UNDP, UNICEF, etc, all have a share of the credit.

It is also worthwhile to mention here that under Tamsir Mbowe, former SoS for Health, the country’s health delivery system received an unprecedented boost, earning credit from both within and outside the country.

The ongoing immunisation campaign against measles is another commendable development. Accordingly, hundreds of thousands of children, most of them from poor farming families, are set to receive this vaccination against a killer disease that has the potential to devastate communities.

Though the country has been acknowledged to have had a high coverage rate, it is heartwarming to see that our public health officials are not being complacent.  Instead of resting on their laurels, they are being proactive in the fight to totally elimate the disease from the country. That is the kind of service that we expect from them.

Bravo to all the diligent men and women who are engaged in this fundamental fight to create an even more healthy Gambia.