Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH) is undergoing substantial renovations, with contractors working diligently to complete the project ahead of schedule. This reconstruction is a response to the growing demand for enhanced services and the need for new medical departments within the country’s leading referral hospital, which serves hundreds of patients daily from across the nation.

The renovation at EFSTH is part of a strategic expansion initiative designed to amplify spacing capacities and improve overall service delivery. The ongoing upgrades feature state-of-the-art equipment and modern facilities, marking a monumental leap in the country’s health sector, which has been experiencing transformative changes.

Key areas of the hospital, including the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department and additional patient wards, have received significant upgrades. The installation of amenities such as air conditioning aims to enhance patient comfort, while the renovations to the outpatient departments focus on improving hygiene and sanitation, providing a conducive environment for both patients and medical staff.

Mustapha Danso, an executive at EFSTH, emphasized the importance of these renovations in addressing patient care. He noted that the A&E Department had previously been relocated to Namban in Bacau due to capacity issues, and the new extensions are set to alleviate overcrowding, thereby accommodating more patients.

“The situation at Ndemban was quite challenging, with many complaints from patients. This extension will greatly increase bed space and improve our service delivery,” Danso remarked.

The Chief Medical Director, Mustapha Bittaye, highlighted the urgent need for the renovations, noting that the hospital’s infrastructure had not been updated for many years. “This hospital has a long history, but most facilities were outdated and inadequate. The recent upgrades include purchasing new equipment, ensuring that we can provide better care for our patients,” he explained.

Essa Jarju, the hospital’s public relations officer, shared insights into the hospital’s critical role in the healthcare system, stating that it serves an average of 700 to 900 patients daily from all corners of the country. “We receive patients from regions as far as Basse to Koina and Banjul, demonstrating the hospital’s significance in meeting national healthcare needs,” he added.

Despite challenges in securing resources, Essa Jarju expressed optimism regarding the completion of the renovations and the acquisition of essential equipment. “Thanks to the support from the Minister of Health, the central government, and our partners, we are steadily enhancing our healthcare delivery. We are committed to restoring pride in Gambian healthcare,” he stated.

As the renovation works approach completion, the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital is set to emerge as a model for modern healthcare facilities in The Gambia, aimed at providing improved services amid expanding healthcare infrastructure. The hospital’s transformation not only enhances patient care but also represents a hopeful future for the nation’s health sector.