On March 24, 2021, the U.S. Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) donated medical equipment valued at an estimated 20 million francs CFA ($36,000 USD) to the Malem Hodar health district in Kaffrine to improve the functionality of 75% of the district’s rural maternity hospitals. The medical equipment includes delivery tables, autoclaves, and electrocardiograph machines.
In addition to the USAID donation, the Malem Hodar Departmental Council contributed 20 million francs CFA, to be used toward the rehabilitation of health structures and staff salaries. Local government and community contributions are critical to achieving sustainable development results in the health sector and have a significant impact on maternal and newborn health outcomes in particular.
This donation is part of a joint USAID and Government of Senegal activity called Ndamir, (“alliance” in Sereer), aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality and controlling, preventing, and eliminating malaria. Ndamir provides targeted assistance to medical regions and districts to sustain health gains and incentivize domestic resource mobilization, all while using host country systems to the greatest extent possible.
The latest donation demonstrates USAID’s support to the health district of Malem Hodar and its continued engagement with the Government of Senegal to improve health outcomes across the country. This is part of a larger package of support from USAID, which is the biggest donor to Senegal’s health sector, providing over $60 million USD annually.
USAID has been a key development champion in Senegal for six decades. USAID has a long-standing history and reputation of partnership with Senegal on long-term development efforts, working together with individuals, communities and the government to improve everyday lives.
MSAS, USAID
MSAS, Senegal