The World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to The Gambia, Dr. Thomas Sukwa, on Tuesday presented two blood bank refrigerators to the Royal Victoria Teaching hospital and Sukuta health center.

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, the Chief Medical Director of the RVTH, Dr Mariatou Jallow, described the donation as timely noting that the blood bank refrigerators will greatly help the maternity unit of the hospital.

Dr. Jallow stated that it would also reduce maternal deaths.

She also used the occasion to call on the general public to donate blood to the hospital especially the youth and commended WHO for the initiative.

For his part, Dr. Thomas Sukwa, WHO Representative to The Gambia, said the donation came following a request by the former WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Malick Samba, for WHO to assist the hospital with blood bank refrigerators for the maternity unit.

He pointed out that the items donated would help reduce maternal death.

Sally Savage Officer in Charge of Sukuta Heath Center also commended WHO for the gesture.