Hungarian Medical Delegation Explores Healthcare Cooperation in The Gambia

A delegation of Hungarian medical professionals from ESZTER Wound Healing Ltd., accompanied by Ambassador-at-Large Hon. Gáspár Gulyás, visited The Gambia as part of efforts to explore opportunities for healthcare cooperation, professional exchange and stronger institutional relations between Hungary and The Gambia.

The delegation of five Hungarian medical doctors arrived at Banjul International Airport on 24 November 2025, where they were received through the VIP section. The visit and its engagements were undertaken under the guidance of Hon. Sir Farimang Saho, Honorary Consul of Hungary to The Gambia, with his office assisting in coordinating the delegation’s activities on the ground.

Engagement with Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital

As part of the visit, the Hungarian medical team engaged with the Edward Francis Small Teaching Hospital (EFSTH).

On 28 November, a virtual presentation was facilitated with a medical professional based in Hungary, during which the Hungarian team presented information about their medical facility and professional expertise. The session also provided an opportunity for questions and professional discussion.

The engagement provided a platform for the two sides to exchange knowledge and explore areas where future medical cooperation could be developed.

Additional Hungarian Delegation

The programme expanded on 1 December 2025 with the arrival of additional Hungarian delegates, including Mr. Attila István Viplák, Mr. Norbert Kocsis and Ms. Annamaria Kocsis. They were formally received at Banjul International Airport before continuing their programme in The Gambia.

Exploring Wider Institutional Cooperation

The visit also extended beyond healthcare.

A meeting was facilitated with the Office of the Inspector General of Police, where members of the Hungarian delegation presented information on facilities and capabilities in Hungary, including a police academy and military training facility. The Head of Medical Services of The Gambia Police Force also participated in the discussions.

The engagement provided another opportunity to explore possible areas of institutional and professional cooperation between Hungarian and Gambian counterparts.

Building Future Cooperation

While the medical team was unable to undertake direct clinical activities during the visit because the necessary regulatory approvals for foreign medical practitioners had not been completed within the delegation’s timeframe, the team was able to undertake verbal and theoretical professional exchanges.

The experience also highlighted the importance of early coordination with the relevant regulatory authorities when planning future medical programmes.

Despite these limitations, the visit successfully facilitated institutional engagements, professional exchanges and introductions between Hungarian and Gambian counterparts, while identifying opportunities that could be explored through future cooperation.

The Office of the Honorary Consul of Hungary to The Gambia remains committed to facilitating connections between Hungarian and Gambian institutions and supporting initiatives that contribute to stronger bilateral and professional relations.