Woleyatina: Health hut inauguration

After more than two years of work, the Dassilame health hut was finally inaugurated on March 4th. It's the result of a Peace Corps service and a half, collaboration between three parties, representing five countries. This "jewel" of the senegalese health system has a sister health hut on the island Djinak Bara, which I visited in October 2014 to get inspired. Both were financed by Pharmaciens Sans Frontières, which is represented locally by my work partner, Ben N'Diaye.

The waiting room at Djinack Bara

Patients' room at Djinack Bara

Two members of the NGO, Angele and Thierry, came to Senegal for over a month to wrap several local projects up. They met with local and authorities, brought furniture over from the island where it was being stored, and made last minute purchases. According to them, our health hut is one of the most functional of the region. Given the challenges we've faced, I'm gratified to hear that our hard work has paid off. In recognition of a job well done, Pharmaciens Sans Frontières has agreed to fund other peripheral projects at the health hut, like a fence and a maternity ward. They have also gifted us with a monthly stipend to buy additional medications, and a monthly bonus for our ASC. They will also support our ongoing efforts to turn the hut into a post.

To celebrate this achievement, we decided to officially inaugurate the health hut. Two health relays and I were responsible for buying vegetables and drinks in Karang first thing in the morning. Volunteers from the village then proceeded to prepare enough food to feed all our guests, an incredible feat.

Joni Senghor's first time using a camera!

We invited local community members, village chiefs, mayors, prefects, ICPs, and community health agents. The ceremony started around noon on March 4th, and ended around 3pm for lunch. It was truly an honor to have these important guests attend. And for me, it was a great opportunity to thank my extraordinary work partners.