Founded by Fatoumata Sowe, whose personal experience with maternity care inspired her to create Gamjul Moms & Babies in 2017, the organization has been dedicated to enhancing maternal health care in The Gambia. Formally registered in 2020, Gamjul's core mission is to provide women and children with the support, care, and resources they need to ensure safe pregnancies and healthy births. The Gamjul Support Network is the latest evolution of this mission, designed to extend essential services and support to all women, regardless of their circumstances.
The launch event at YMCA Hall was meticulously planned to emphasize the significance of the Gamjul Support Network and its potential impact. Key moments from the event included:
• Opening Remarks and Prayer: The event began with a warm welcome from the Master of Ceremonies, Sainey, followed by an opening prayer led by Imam Alhajie Mustapha Jallow. The Imam expressed the importance of Gamjul’s work from an Islamic perspective, emphasizing the religious duty of helping one another,
particularly in supporting women through the risks involved in childbirth. He highlighted that providing assistance to mothers during this critical time aligns with
the principles of compassion and support central to Islam.
• Introduction to the Network: Omar delivered a detailed introduction to the Gamjul Support Network, explaining how it will revolutionize maternity care in The Gambia. This was followed by a documentary video that showcased Gamjul's past achievements and future goals, featuring testimonials from beneficiaries who have directly experienced the positive impact of the organization.
• Keynote Address and Notable Speeches:
• Entertainment and Presentations: The event also included a light-hearted segment by Sainey and an insightful presentation by Alhagie Gaye, who explained the benefits of membership in the Gamjul Support Network. Additionally, Mr. Faal from SAAP Consultancy Ltd. provided strategic insights into how Gamjul plans to expand its impact.
• Testimonials and Fundraising: The emotional testimonials, particularly from Elizabeth on behalf of a young boy named Moses, highlighted the life-changing work of Gamjul. The event culminated in a donation pledge and fundraising segment, with attendees enthusiastically committing to support the cause.
• Networking and Refreshments: The event concluded with an opportunity for guests to network, fostering potential collaborations that could further Gamjul's mission.
The Gamjul Support Network is designed to bridge the gaps in maternal healthcare by offering a wide range of services, including prenatal education, access to skilled healthcare professionals, and comprehensive postnatal care. Membership in the network is open to both individuals and corporate entities, allowing a broad spectrum of supporters to contribute to this vital cause.
Individual Membership: For a modest monthly fee, individual members can ensure that mothers across The Gambia receive the care they need from pregnancy through childbirth and beyond.
Corporate Membership: Businesses can demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility by contributing to the network, thereby playing a crucial role in expanding the reach and impact of maternal health services.
The launch of the Gamjul Support Network on August 24 at the YMCA Hall is more than just the introduction of a new initiative; it represents a significant step forward in the fight against maternal and infant mortality in The Gambia. By uniting individuals, organizations, and communities in this cause, the network promises to bring hope and health to mothers and children across the nation.
As the event drew to a close, Ebrima Manjang delivered a heartfelt closing note, expressing gratitude to all who attended and emphasizing that this launch is only the beginning of a much larger journey. The success of the Gamjul Support Network will depend on the continued involvement and support of the community, and with this strong foundation, the future of maternal health in The Gambia looks brighter than ever.
Gamjul Moms & Babies
49 Garba Jahumpa Road, Bakau New Town,
The Gambia.