Africa-Press – Gambia. The Fatoumatta Bah Barrow Foundation (FaBB), in partnership with the Qatar Fund for Development, has officially inaugurated a newly renovated and fully equipped Urology Unit Theatre Complex at the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH), marking a major milestone in efforts to strengthen specialist healthcare in The Gambia.
The ceremony, held on Tuesday, 15th July 2025, at EFSTH, was graced by Her Excellency Fatoumatta Bah Barrow, First Lady of the Republic of The Gambia and founder of the FaBB Foundation.
The modernised Urology Unit, now upgraded to a state-of-the-art facility, is set to provide life-saving procedures and specialist care that previously forced patients to seek treatment abroad. The new theatre will serve patients from across the country, helping to ensure that access to quality care is no longer determined by distance or financial means.
Speaking at the event, EFSTH Chief Medical Director Dr. Mustapha Bittaye described the commissioning as “a very significant milestone in our collective pursuit of excellence in healthcare delivery for the Gambian people.” He highlighted the hospital’s unique role as the country’s only teaching hospital and said the upgraded unit demonstrates a shared commitment to progress, compassion, and meaningful partnerships.
Minister of Health Dr. Ahmadou Lamin Samateh used the occasion to recall the challenges faced in the past due to outdated and inadequate equipment. “Sometimes the theatres didn’t have functional monitors, anaesthetists depended on pulse oximeters or even the colour of blood to check oxygen levels,” he said. He added that the new facility would help address critical conditions like kidney, bladder, and ureteral injuries that affect people of all ages.
The First Lady, in her remarks, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to uplifting communities through impactful projects in healthcare, education, and social support. The FaBB Foundation CEO praised the partnership with the Qatar Fund for Development, whose funding made the renovation and equipping of the unit possible.
In addition to the theatre opening, the FaBB Foundation presented a donation of essential medical items and consumables to EFSTH to support daily operations and improve patient outcomes.
A short documentary screened during the event showcased the project’s journey from vision to reality and paid tribute to the dedicated FaBB staff and EFSTH medical team behind the transformation.
The First Lady described the new facility as “an opening of hope, dignity, and a brighter future for generations of Gambians.”
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