Response to Gambian-Swedish Parliamentarian: Critique Requires Consistency and Solutions

The recent statements made by a Gambian-Swedish parliamentarian, referring to the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital as a “so-called hospital,” have sparked considerable public discourse. It is an aspiration shared by all Gambians to have a healthcare system that is sufficiently equipped, adequately staffed, and capable of delivering high-quality care. Consequently, constructive criticism is both valid and essential.

Nevertheless, such criticism from public figures raises pertinent inquiries regarding their own record of civic engagement and contributions to public welfare.

Given the extensive experience of this parliamentarian in the Swedish political landscape, it is reasonable for many Gambians to question how this influence has been utilized to promote healthcare, education, or other developmental priorities within The Gambia. Have there been efforts to forge partnerships, mobilize resources, or enhance medical collaboration between Sweden and The Gambia? These are legitimate inquiries warranting responses.

Furthermore, many Gambians recall the tumultuous years under the regime of former President Yahya Jammeh, during which numerous human rights violations were reported. Different responses emerged from Gambians at home and abroad during this politically fraught period.

Throughout those challenging times, Gambian communities in the diaspora actively organized campaigns and demonstrations relentlessly. However, Mr. Momodou Jallow did not partake in any efforts alongside the Gambian community in Sweden to oppose the Jammeh regime or provide any form of support. As a Gambian-Swedish politician, his voice, direction, and assistance could have significantly bolstered the diaspora’s resistance against authoritarian rule. It is disheartening to witness individuals arrive in The Gambia, securing interviews with prominent local media to critique the government and healthcare systems, while lacking any previous support for these causes. The transition from Yahya Jammeh’s regime has seen the emergence of numerous peace-time advocates eager to shape the narrative.

Consequently, it is not surprising that some citizens now question the roles played by prominent diaspora leaders and politicians during those critical years and whether they actively advocated for democratic reforms.

It is equally crucial to maintain a balanced perspective when evaluating the nation’s healthcare system. No objective observer would contest that The Gambia’s health sector faces significant challenges. Hospitals grapple with shortages of essential equipment, medications, specialized personnel, and basic infrastructure. Both patients and healthcare workers are deserving of a better standard of care.

However, it is imperative to acknowledge that the health sector inherited in the wake of the Jammeh era was plagued by deep-rooted structural deficiencies cultivated over many years. Addressing these issues necessitates a sustained investment rather than expecting instant transformation.

Since 2017, initiatives have been introduced to enhance health infrastructure, improve healthcare accessibility across various regions, fortify regional facilities, recruit additional healthcare professionals, and foster collaboration with international partners. Although these initiatives have not rectified every issue, they signify progress that should be recognized alongside ongoing challenges. Notably, significant advancements have been made in healthcare services within The Gambia, including the renovation of the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital with modern technology and the availability of qualified professionals conducting procedures that previously necessitated overseas medical attention. Overall, The Gambia boasts better-equipped and constructed medical facilities nationwide. It is critical that we refrain from misleading our population about the availability of medications in Gambian hospitals, especially considering that patients often purchase medications from pharmacies in Sweden and other countries unless admitted to a hospital. In Sweden, patients do not receive medication directly at health centres; instead, they receive prescriptions to be filled at pharmacies where they must buy their medications.

The remedy does not lie in dismissing an entire national referral hospital using inflammatory rhetoric. Such remarks may resonate emotionally with those who have encountered personal loss, yet they do little to foster practical reforms or restore public trust in healthcare professionals who labor diligently under challenging circumstances.

Democracy permits all citizens, including parliamentarians, to critique government actions. This same democracy also empowers citizens to hold public officials accountable regarding their own records of service, leadership, and contribution.

The Gambian populace deserves an earnest dialogue—one that neither overlooks the myriad challenges within our healthcare system nor disregards the progress achieved, while also encouraging all, particularly those wielding influence and extensive networks, to engage collaboratively in developing solutions.

The future of Gambian healthcare will not be established through criticism alone. It must be constructed through commitment, partnership, investment, and a collective resolve to enhance the quality of life for every Gambian.