Freetown, Feb. 24, 015 (MOHS) – The Minister of Health and Sanitation, Dr. Abu Bakarr Fofanah, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Brima Kargbo and the Chief Nursing Officer, Matron Hossinatu Kanu are the proud recipients of the Africa Diaspora Focus 2014 Humanitarian Award among the first 45 from 100 nominees around Africa.
Speaking at the ceremony held in the conference hall of the Ministry at Youyi Building in Freetown on Monday February 23, 2015, Mr. Emmanuel Stafford, the Director, Diaspora Focus an organization formed in the United Kingdom to advance the cause and welfare of Africans living abroad and returning home to better integrate and contribute meaningfully to their communities and societies, said the institution is a community based organization, registered in Sierra Leone towards a holistic developmen
Dilating on the choice and selection of the awardees, Mr. Stafford noted the sacrifices made by a good number of institutions and individuals in the fight against the deadly Ebola virus disease, citing the efforts made by the Health Minister, the Chief Medical and the Chief Nursing Officers’ leadership role in the fight to contain the disease.
The Meritorious Award, Mr. Stafford opined, is a humanitarian gesture to serve as motivation for the redoubling of more efforts, commitment and dedication to push Ebola to its final end.
“Your efforts should not go unnoticed, and Sierra Leone should appreciate the sacrifices made by you to save lives”, Emmanuel Stafford opined.
Dr. Brima Kargbo receiving his Award
Responding, Health and Sanitation Minister, Dr. Abu Bakarr Fofanah and the Professional heads – the Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Brima Kargbo and the Chief Nursing Officer, Matron Hossinatu Kanu said they were grateful for the recognition and honour bestowed on them for their hard work and promised to intensify efforts in the discharge of their duties.
Dedicating the Award to the fallen heroes, Dr. Abu Bakarr Fofanah noted the risk and sacrifices made by frontline health workers, and the value of the Award as a motivation to do more, describing it as a thoughtful treasure.
The Minister on behalf of the President, the government and people of Sierra Leone, thanked Diaspora Focus for the applauding venture, adding that no gift or reward is too small for a work well done.
Second from right Deputy Minister II, Madina Rahman celebrates the success story
Highlights of the ceremony include the citation and Conferment of the Award by the Chairman International Committee Board of Africa Development Award, Mr Alex Bangura, and a moment of Silent Prayers for the Late Dr. Humar Khan and other fallen heroes in the fight against Ebola.
JAK/KK/MOHS/ SLENA
