By Hassan Osman Kargbo
In a significant show of humanitarian support, the Tamareneh Organization, July 15, 2025, donated essential medical equipment to the Infectious Disease Unit at Connaught Hospital in Freetown. The donation comes as part of the organization’s continued commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery systems in Sierra Leone, especially in the face of emerging public health threats like Mpox.
The event, held at Connaught Hospital, brought together medical professionals, representatives of the Tamareneh Organization, and members of the public. The gesture, described as timely and life-saving, was welcomed by staff and administrators at the hospital, who have been grappling with equipment shortages in recent months.
Dr. Alhaji Gbla, a medical doctor at Connaught Hospital and a member of the Tamareneh Organization, highlighted the motivation behind the donation. He explained that Tamareneh has a long-standing history of philanthropic work across Sierra Leone and that the latest intervention is in direct response to the recent outbreak of Mpox.
“When the Mpox outbreak emerged, we at Tamareneh knew it was critical to act. Our frontline doctors and nurses need proper protective equipment to perform their duties effectively and safely,” Dr. Gbla stated. “That’s why we made the decision to support the Infectious Disease Unit, which handles suspected Mpox cases.”
He emphasized that Tamareneh’s donation process always includes follow-up with the recipients to ensure that materials reach their intended beneficiaries. “We don’t just give and walk away,” he added. “We go back and check whether it is making a real impact. Our goal is to meet the actual needs of the people.”
The donated equipment includes personal protective gear, sanitization materials, and other critical tools that health workers use to manage infectious diseases. Dr. Gbla praised the dedication of the Tamareneh team and pledged that the items would be used strictly for their intended medical purposes.
Speaking on behalf of Connaught Hospital, Dr. Daniel Sesay expressed deep gratitude for the organization’s support. He described the donation as timely, particularly given the hospital’s recent struggles with limited supplies.
“For over a month now, we’ve been facing serious challenges in this unit,” Dr. Sesay said. “This donation is a major boost not only for us as healthcare providers but also for the patients we serve. It will play a pivotal role in our efforts to manage and contain Mpox and other infectious diseases.”
Ibrahim Sesay, the National Coordinator of the Tamareneh Organization, also addressed the gathering, echoing the organization’s broader mission of identifying and responding to urgent community needs across Sierra Leone. According to him, Tamareneh has consistently carried out similar activities in various districts over the years.
“We are not a large organization, but we believe in doing what we can with what we have,” he said. “Our mission is to solve problems in our own small way and make a difference where it matters most. We are grateful to our partners and supporters who continue to make these interventions possible.”
Ibrahim Sesay reaffirmed Tamareneh’s commitment to sustainable and community-centered development. He encouraged other organizations and individuals to join hands in supporting healthcare institutions, especially during public health crises.
The event concluded with a symbolic handing over of the equipment to Connaught Hospital. The donation marks another milestone in Tamareneh’s growing legacy of service to humanity, particularly in the health sector.
As the Mpox situation continues to evolve, such efforts underscore the importance of collaboration between civil society organizations and public institutions in building a resilient healthcare system in Sierra Leone.
