Power Up Gambia Blog

Mike, Lucy, and I decided to take short holiday away from SJGH. I feel as though I have been on an emotional roller coaster since we’ve arrived. Some moments are filled with pure joy and hope, the next with frustration and sadness. We decided it would be best for all of us to go to the Kombo (the urban area around the capital) for a few days to rest and get a protein-rich meal.

We have been spoiled the last two nights because we are staying at SeaView Gardens, one of the nicest hotels in the area (note:  the power has gone off at least three times since we arrived. Reliable electricity is truly a struggle in The Gambia). We received a huge discount because we are volunteers in the country – only 600 dalasi ($24) a night.

Feeling completely rejuvenated we woke up this morning ready for a busy day. We had arranged with Kebba Badgie to be picked up at 10am to go visit the Permanent Secretary (PS) for the Minister of Health. Unfortunately he was delayed and we did not get on the road until 2pm. We did, however, manage to catch the PS and discuss Power Up Gambia. He expressed his gratitude for what we have accomplished at SJGH and his hopes that we continue our work in The Gambia. We discussed our plans to help the Somita Community Clinic and to continue to support SJGH. I also emphasized the importance of a government partnership with Power Up Gambia. It is important to us that the government makes a contribution to support our efforts. We have highlighted how they can best help in the 2010 budget proposal for SJGH. These funds would be used to improve the plumbing infrastructure of the hospital and expand the solar energy system we have already installed. My hopes are high that they will meet our requests.