By Ibrahim Sorie Koroma
Senior Health Education Officer – HEP/MoH
As Bo District continues to record an increase in Mpox cases, two survivors have stepped up to support the local healthcare system. On May 30, 2025, Joy Faith Kabba and Khadija Sesay, both Mpox survivors, donated a large quantity of assorted Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) items to the Bo Government Hospital.
The donation aims to help break the chain of transmission of Mpox within healthcare settings by supporting frontline health workers, patients, and visitors with critical IPC supplies.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, both women shared that the donation was their way of showing gratitude for the care they received, and to contribute to the ongoing fight against Mpox.
“We are not just survivors; we are witnesses to the incredible sacrifices made by the doctors, nurses, and support staff,” they stated.
Joy Faith Kabba also shared her personal experience battling Mpox, describing it as a life-altering ordeal.
“Being diagnosed with Mpox was one of the scariest moments of my life,” she said. “But the dedication and care I received at this hospital helped me survive. I promised myself that once I recovered, I would find a way to give back.”
Receiving the donation on behalf of the district, District Medical Officer (DMO), Dr. Amara Steven Ngebai, and District Medical Superintendent, Dr. Usman Kakay, expressed deep appreciation for the gesture. They described the donation as timely and significant, especially as the district grapples with a surge in Mpox infections.
Dr. Ngebai revealed that as of May 30, the district had recorded 48 confirmed Mpox cases, a number he described as alarming and unacceptable. He called on all stakeholders to join the effort to stop the spread of the virus, emphasizing that fighting a disease like Mpox requires community-wide action.
“Everyone is at risk. Mpox is highly contagious, and we must all act together,” said Dr. Kakay. “This donation is more than a kind gesture—it is a symbol of resilience and hope in our collective fight.”
Dr. Ngebai added that the items would significantly strengthen the district’s infection prevention and control strategies, and hoped others would be inspired to support the effort as Joy and Khadija have done.
Dr. Ngebai concluded by stating that district health authorities continue to work closely with national health bodies, partners, and local leaders to contain the spread of Mpox and ensure timely information, treatment, and responsive care for all confirmed cases.
“These two brave women have turned their painful experiences into purpose—and for that, we are deeply grateful.” Said Dr. Ngebai
The donated items included Hygiene and cleaning products, hand-washing stations and water containers, rubber buckets, waste bins, chairs and other essential IPC materials