The Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia (MRCG) runs a Malnutrition Rehabilitation Centre in the village of Keneba, West Kiang. Malnutrition is still common here, particularly during the rainy (‘hungry’) season, when last year’s harvest has started to run out, and this year’s is not ready for harvest. Large families and widespread poverty mean those most vulnerable often become malnourished. Severely malnourished children can easily become very sick, and need very careful feeding in the first few days, to ensure their delicate systems are not overloaded. This is provided in the rehabilitation centre, where specific volumes of special feeds are given every few hours, until the child is stable and gaining weight well. Children are checked for underlying conditions that may have contributed to the child’s poor weight gain, and heart problems, developmental problems such as cerebral palsy, or chronic infections such as TB or HIV are often diagnosed. Once identified, we can counsel the family and start treatment where possible.

The centre also keeps track of children with special needs in our community, and endeavours to visit them regularly, providing support where possible. Unfortunately, much of the equipment that could aid these children is expensive, and so therefore has not yet been provided. This includes wheelchairs, standing frames, splints and foot supports, all of which would make a huge difference to the quality of life of these children.

We also run an education programme for mothers attending the supplement centre, giving lessons on good hygiene in the home, healthy eating and family planning.

We are hosting the first ever Keneba Half Marathon, 10km Run and 5km Fun Run where dedicated staff members in Keneba will push themselves to the limit in the searing heat of The Gambia to raise money for these projects. All support is very much appreciated!