GRIP, Internships Abroad A Snapshot of Bwiam

GRIP: Power up Gambia

After 24 hours of traveling, I finally reached The Gambia, where I was picked up by the CEO of Bwiam General Hospital, Mr. Kebba Manneh. Within my first days in the country, I explored the beautiful coast, met so many kind people, and began trying the traditional dishes, even learning how to make “Red Benachin” (my favorite Gambian dish). Initially, my first two weeks in The Gambia were daunting as I was the first of the Penn interns to arrive and was in a new continent, though I was quickly made to feel welcome by everyone around me.

As I arrived to the hospital, I first saw the unparalleled sunsets and night sky filled with stars here in Bwiam. I was told there would be mango trees here, but I never expected this many! Eating mangoes with my red pepper seasoning I brought from Mexico has made me feel closer to home, as has speaking Spanish with the four Cuban doctors working here, though I have also tried to learn the local language of Jola. So far, I only know the greeting exchange of "Kazumai?

Kazumai keb".

I brought my camera to capture the beautiful landscapes, and seeing that I liked photography, the chief gave me the task of taking pictures around the hospital and surrounding clinics to be used for future projects. This is how I was first introduced to Kappa Community Clinic, the primary healthcare provider for multiple villages. After seeing that the roof of the staff quarters was completely destroyed, making the conditions unlivable, the chief and I worked on an invoice of materials for the renovation. I developed a concept note complete with photos I took and information surrounding the statistics of the clinic, and began fundraising. As of now, I was able to obtain the necessary funds thanks to the amazing donors, and soon we will begin the construction!

I also photographed the Jaipur Limb Workshop where I observed how a visiting trainer from Malawi developed prosthetics from PVC pipes, plaster, and metal rods for below and above the knee amputees. I witnessed people walking again for the first time in years thanks to the efforts of his team.

In the evenings, I accompanied my friend Saikou and his team to install solar panels in nearby villages in houses that had never had access to electricity. Here, I learned about the principles of how solar power works and the steps to install these systems. I made friends with the children, tried "Yassa" for the first time, shared "Ataya" tea with the families, and felt the hospitality Gambians are known for.

After exploring Bwiam on my own, I welcomed the second intern to arrive! Together, we attended the inauguration of a clinic where we saw President Adama Barrow of The Gambia deliver a speech up close.

I have only been here two weeks and have already learned and done so much! I am very excited for what the following weeks will bring and to be able to make an impact in this community.