In response to the alarming increase in Mpox cases in Bo District, two brave survivors have taken an important step to strengthen the local healthcare system. On May 30, 2025, Joy Faith Kabba and Khadija Sesay, both of whom have overcome Mpox-related challenges, generously donated a large number of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) items to Bo Government Hospital. Their contribution aims to improve the safety and care of frontline health workers, patients, and visitors, thereby helping to break the Mpox transmission chain in healthcare settings.
During the handover ceremony, both women expressed their heartfelt appreciation for the medical care they received throughout their battles with the disease. They emphasized that this donation was not only a token of gratitude, but also an effort to support the ongoing fight against Mpox in their community. “We are not just survivors; we are witnesses to the incredible sacrifices made by the doctors, nurses, and support staff,” they said, emphasizing the critical role that healthcare workers play in their recovery.
Joy Faith Kabba described her experiences with Mpox as both transformative and frightening. “Being diagnosed with Mpox was one of the most terrifying experiences of my life,” she said. “However, the unwavering dedication and compassionate care I received at this hospital were critical to my recovery,” I promised myself that once I recovered, I would find a way to give back to the community and the medical team that had assisted me.
Dr. Amara Steven Ngebai, District Medical Officer (DMO), and Dr. Usman Kakay, District Medical Superintendent, both expressed gratitude for the donation, citing its timing and significance in light of the district’s recent increase in Mpox infections. Dr. Ngebai revealed that, as of May 30, the district had 48 confirmed cases of Mpox, which he described as concerning and unacceptable. He urged all stakeholders to work together to stop the virus’s spread, emphasizing that combating a highly contagious disease like Mpox requires a community-wide response.
“Everyone is at risk,” Dr. Kakay cautioned.”Mpox is extremely contagious, and we must all work together to stop its spread. This donation is more than a kind gesture; it represents resilience and hope in our shared fight against this disease.”
Dr. Ngebai emphasized that the donated items would greatly improve the district’s infection prevention and control strategies. He expressed hope that Joy and Khadija’s inspiring actions would motivate others to contribute to the ongoing efforts against Mpox.
In conclusion, Dr. Ngebai reiterated that district health authorities are actively collaborating with national health agencies, partners, and local leaders to manage the Mpox outbreak effectively. They are committed to providing timely information, treatment, and responsive care in all confirmed cases. “These two brave women have turned their painful experiences into a purposeful mission, for which we are deeply grateful,” he said.
The donated items included essential hygiene and cleaning products, hand-washing stations, water containers, rubber buckets, waste bins, chairs, and other critical IPC materials, all to improve the community’s safety and well-being in the face of increasing Mpox cases.
