Residents of the riverine communities in Moyamba District are set to benefit from improved emergency healthcare services following the official assumption of operational responsibility for the Justice Ivan Sesay Sea Ambulance by the National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS).
The development was announced on Thursday, July 16, 2026, after a meeting between the Member of Parliament representing Moyamba District, Hon. Alpha Ben Mansaray, and the leadership of NEMS led by Dr. Sahr Songor-John Koedoyoma. The meeting focused on finalising arrangements to ensure the effective and sustainable operation of the sea ambulance, which is expected to provide life-saving emergency transportation for residents living in hard-to-reach riverine communities.
For years, many communities across the district have struggled with limited access to emergency medical care, particularly pregnant women, children and critically ill patients who often faced dangerous delays in reaching health facilities due to transportation challenges across waterways. The absence of a reliable emergency transport system has contributed to preventable deaths and complications in several communities.
Speaking after the meeting, Hon. Mansaray expressed satisfaction that NEMS has officially taken over the operational management of the Justice Ivan Sesay Sea Ambulance, describing the move as a major milestone in addressing one of the district’s longstanding healthcare challenges.
Under the new arrangement, NEMS will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the facility, including the payment of monthly stipends for boat operators and medical personnel as well as ensuring a steady supply of fuel to keep the ambulance in continuous operation.
“For a long time this district has been suffering, but with commitment, advocacy and partnership, we are now seeing real solutions,” Hon. Mansaray said. “The Sea Ambulance will no longer sit idle.”
The lawmaker thanked the Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on Health, Hon. Bernadette Wuyata Songa, for her support in facilitating engagement with NEMS, noting that her commitment helped create the opportunity that has now culminated in the operational takeover.
He also expressed appreciation to the Moyamba District Health Management Team led by Dr. Mahmoud Idriss Kamara and the management and staff of Hartfield Archer Memorial Hospital in Rotifunk for their continued collaboration and dedication towards improving healthcare delivery in the district.
Reflecting on the significance of the achievement, Hon. Mansaray described the development as the fulfilment of a long-held vision to reduce maternal and child mortality in Moyamba’s riverine communities.
“Today, I feel deeply honoured to witness my dream of reducing maternal and child mortality beginning to bear fruit,” he said. “This milestone reinforces my belief that meaningful progress can be achieved when we work together to address the challenges facing our communities. My vision remains steadfast: to contribute, to the best of my ability, to finding practical solutions to national issues that affect the lives and well-being of our citizens.”
To facilitate timely emergency response, designated patient collection points have also been identified across the district. Patients from Kargboro will be picked up at Samu Wharf or Moyeamoh Wharf, while those from Ribbi will access the service through Seaport Wharf or Mokumba Wharf, located approximately 14 minutes from the Sea Ambulance station. Communities in Bumpeh will utilise the various wharfs along the Bumpeh River leading to Rotifunk.
The operationalisation of the Justice Ivan Sesay Sea Ambulance marks a significant step towards strengthening emergency healthcare delivery in Moyamba District. It is expected to improve access to life-saving medical services for pregnant women, children and other vulnerable residents living in isolated riverine communities where transportation has long been a barrier to receiving timely medical attention.
Hon. Mansaray concluded by thanking all partners and stakeholders who have contributed to the initiative, expressing optimism that the collaboration between Parliament, NEMS and the district health authorities will save lives and improve healthcare outcomes for thousands of residents across Moyamba District.