Dr. Ahmed Lamin Samateh, minister of health, has responded to a recent advisory from the US government concerning the country’s healthcare standards, describing such advisories as routine and not unexpected.

Acknowledging that Gambian healthcare standards are lower than those in the United States, Dr. Samateh emphasised the importance of context in understanding this disparity.

He pointed out that the financial resources allocated to small health facilities in the US vastly exceed the entire national health budget of The Gambia.

“We do not have the resources for that in The Gambia,” he said, highlighting the significant challenges faced in healthcare delivery.

He also noted the long journey ahead for The Gambia to enhance its health standards, calling for patience and support from both local and international communities as the nation strives to improve its healthcare infrastructure.

Reporting by Adama Makasuba