Concerns over the growing prevalence of lifestyle-related illnesses in The Gambia took centre stage on Saturday as the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Association of The Gambia, in partnership with SICPA Gambia, organised a Community Wellness Day at the Trade Fair Ground in Brusubi.

The event brought together health professionals, fitness trainers, corporate representatives and members of the public for a day of free medical check-ups, health education, nutrition awareness and physical fitness activities aimed at encouraging healthier lifestyles.

Participants underwent health screenings, received advice on nutrition and healthy living, and took part in exercise sessions designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing.

Speaking at the event, the President of the Occupational Safety and Health Association of The Gambia, Momodou Ceesay, said the initiative was driven by growing concerns over the increase in hypertension, diabetes and obesity in the country.

“Our mandate is to ensure people are safe and healthy in whatever they do. Whether you are at home, in the office, on the farm, on the road or at sea, health and safety should always come first,” he said.

Mr Ceesay noted that recent studies have highlighted a rise in lifestyle-related diseases and stressed the need for greater public awareness.

“There is an increase in hypertension, diabetes and obesity. These are issues that require urgent attention. Many of these conditions are linked to lifestyle choices, and people need to understand the importance of regular exercise, healthy eating and taking care of their mental wellbeing,” he said.

He encouraged Gambians to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines and pay closer attention to their health.

“Even simple activities such as walking, jogging, stretching or practising mindfulness can make a significant difference. We want people to understand that prevention is always better than cure,” he added.

Mr Ceesay also highlighted the importance of occupational safety, noting that employers have a responsibility to provide healthy working environments for their employees.

He said workplaces should ensure access to clean drinking water, suitable furniture and proper health and safety measures in line with labour laws.

The General Manager of SICPA Gambia, Momodou K. Jarrah, said the company partnered with the OSH Association because of its commitment to community wellbeing.

“We strongly believe that creating awareness about health and wellbeing is important for both individuals and society. Healthy people contribute to stronger communities and stronger institutions,” he said.

Mr Jarrah described the event as part of SICPA’s corporate social responsibility efforts and said the company intends to continue supporting health-related initiatives.

“This is our first major community wellness programme, but it certainly will not be the last. We are looking at expanding these initiatives to other parts of the country and exploring more ways to support communities through health interventions,” he said.

He expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the level of public engagement throughout the day.

“It has been encouraging to see people of different ages come together to learn about their health, undergo medical checks and participate in wellness activities. It shows that there is a growing interest in preventive healthcare,” he added.

Among those attending the event was Yusupha Keita, who described the programme as informative and beneficial.

“Today’s programme has taught me things I did not know before. Many people spend long hours working without paying attention to their health. What we learned here can help reduce the risk of sickness and improve quality of life,” he said.

He called for similar initiatives to be extended across the country to ensure more Gambians have access to health education and preventive services.

Beneficiary Aramat Sankareh also praised the organisers for providing free health services and valuable information.

She said the programme had helped participants better understand their health status and the importance of maintaining healthy lifestyles.

Organisers expressed hope that the Community Wellness Day would become a regular event and eventually be replicated in different regions of the country as part of broader efforts to promote health, safety and wellbeing among Gambians.

The event concluded with a renewed call for individuals, institutions and communities to prioritise healthy living and take proactive steps to prevent lifestyle-related illnesses.

By Adama Makasuba