Banjul, The Gambia – The Ministry of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (MoHERST) has announced the launch of procurement activities for the School of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (SMASH) project, funded through a US$37.5 million financing package from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB).
In a public notice, MoHERST said the project is jointly financed by the Islamic Development Bank, ChildFund, and the Government of The Gambia, and aims to significantly strengthen the country’s health education infrastructure and workforce capacity.
The SMASH initiative will focus on expanding academic facilities, equipping laboratories and classrooms with modern medical technology, and strengthening faculty development programs.
Major Infrastructure Expansion
A key component of the project involves the construction of several specialized academic buildings to support medical and allied health training. Planned facilities include shared SMASH facilities covering 2,150 square meters, alongside dedicated departmental buildings for:
Public and Environmental Health – 2,933 m²
Nursing – 4,552 m²
Medicine – 4,248 m²
Pharmacy – 4,248 m²
Allied Health Sciences – 3,590 m²
These developments are expected to enhance training capacity for health professionals and address critical shortages in the country’s healthcare sector.
Equipment, ICT, and Academic Development
Beyond infrastructure, the project will fund the procurement of advanced medical and laboratory equipment as well as ICT infrastructure to support e-learning and digital medical training.
Additional consultancy services will support the supervision of construction works, installation and commissioning of equipment, curriculum development, faculty training, and the introduction of green telemedicine solutions.
Procurement Process
According to MoHERST, procurement will follow the Islamic Development Bank’s 2019 procurement guidelines, covering goods, works, related services, and consultancy services.
Specific procurement opportunities will be announced on the IsDB website and in several Gambian newspapers, including Foroyaa, The Point, Standard, The Voice, and Observer 24.
The ministry clarified that prequalification of suppliers and contractors will not be required for the project.
Contact for Interested Firms
Eligible companies and consultants interested in participating in the procurement process can contact the Central Projects Coordination Unit (CPCU).
Project Coordinator: Anta Taal
Address: Royal Insurance Building, 2nd & 3rd Floor, OIC Highway, Kotu, Banjul, The Gambia
Phone: +220 7818881 / 3971756 / 3205215
Emails: ataal@cpcumof.gm | nsosseh@cpcumof.gm | msanyang@cpcumof.gm
The SMASH project is expected to play a critical role in expanding medical education in The Gambia and strengthening the country’s healthcare workforce for the future.
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