In what has been referred to as the right step in the right direction, one of the world’s leading humanitarian organization, the World Food Programme (WFP), has donated eight XL125 Motor Bikes and accessories to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, to sustain the fight against the spate of malnutrition among children across the country.

The motor bikes of hope

The donation, worth sixteen thousand nine hundred United States dollars, was made at a brief ceremony held at the Central Medical Stores, New England, in Freetown.

Presenting the items to the Minister of Health and Sanitation, the Regional Director of WFP, Mr. Mustapha Darboe, stated that his organization recognizes with keen concern the fact that cases of malnutrition and acute malnutrition are prevalent in the country, and that the donation made is a way of ensuring continued association with the ministry and partners responsible, to tackle the problem.

The high rate of malnutrition he said, should be of concern to all, pointing out that recent findings revealed that the prevalent rate of malnutrition stands at 30%, and acute malnutrition at about 20%.

He also pointed out that in cases where the rate of malnutrition is high, there will be a rise in the mortality rate, as well as maternal deaths.

He expressed happiness over steps being taken by the Ministry of Health and Sanitation alongside partners such as WFP, in tackling the issue.

He ended by assuring the Health Minister of his organization’s continued support to the ministry, adding that a special programme is being designed to alleviate hunger among children.

In her statement, the Minister of Health and Sanitation, Madam Abator Thomas, stated that "We are here today to witness once again the handing over of much needed items to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation from WFP, to help with the implementation of health activities".

She went on to state that "The items that are to be handed over are eight motorbikes meant for the supervision and monitoring of WFP’s supported supplementary feeding clinics. These clinics are based in Koinadugu, Port Loko, Kambia, Tonkolili, Bombali, Bonthe, Pujehun and Kailahun districts".

She thanked WFP for the donation, noting that the organization has been useful not only to her ministry, but to the Government of Sierra Leone as well.

She used the opportunity to officially welcome the WFP Regional Director, Mr. Mustapha Darboe to the country, assuring him of his safety and comfort throughout his stay.

She ended by assuring WFP that the items will be used for the intended purpose.

Also present at the handing over ceremony were the Deputy Minister of Health and Sanitation, Mr. Ibrahim Sesay, the Country Director of WFP, Mr. Felix B.F. Gomez, and senior operatives of the Health Ministry including Dr. Alhassan Sesay, the Director of Disease Control.

The motorbikes are complete with accessories such as helmet, anti theft locks, elbow pads, knee protectors, and gloves.