Meet Hon. Modou Lamin B. Bah, the National Assembly Member for Banjul North Constituency in The Gambia and a dedicated advocate for stronger health systems across Africa. As Vice Chair of the Select Committee on Health, Disaster, Humanitarian Relief and Refugees in the National Assembly, he has built a reputation as a passionate champion for public health, particularly in the area of mental health.
Hon. Bah recently expanded his leadership beyond national borders after being elected Chairman of the Network of African Parliamentary Committees of Health (NEAPACOH). His election took place during the 17th Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Conference of NEAPACOH held in Zambia, marking a significant milestone for both The Gambia and continental parliamentary collaboration on health.
A vocal mental health champion, Hon. Bah has consistently advocated for policies that address the stigma surrounding mental illness, including pushing for the decriminalization of suicide and greater support systems for those in need.
His work aligns closely with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by United Nations Member States in 2015. The agenda provides a shared global blueprint for peace and prosperity, built around the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the center of these goals is SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being, which calls for ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for people of all ages. Through his legislative work and continental leadership, Hon. Bah has been advancing efforts to strengthen health systems and improve wellbeing across communities.
This month, we sought an audience with Hon. Bah to learn more about how he is advancing sustainable development by championing health initiatives in The Gambia and across Africa.
What inspired your commitment to advancing health through parliamentary leadership?
“I am driven by a desire to serve my community and contribute to improving healthcare in The Gambia. As Vice Chair of the Select Committee on Health, I have seen firsthand the impact of poor health outcomes on families and communities. It is a privilege to work towards creating positive change.”
How can parliamentarians strengthen progress toward better health outcomes in Africa?
“Parliamentarians have a crucial role in advancing SDG 3 through legislation, oversight, and budgeting. We must prioritize health funding, ensure accountability, and support initiatives addressing health system challenges. Collaboration with stakeholders and regional bodies is also key to success.”
What initiatives have you championed to improve healthcare delivery in The Gambia?
“As a member of the Select Committee on Health, I have pushed for increased budget allocation to the health sector, supported initiatives to strengthen primary healthcare, and advocated for improved emergency response systems. These efforts aim to enhance healthcare access and quality for all Gambians.”
How will your role as Chairman of the Network of African Parliamentary Committees of Health contribute to achieving SDG 3?
“I am honored to lead this network, facilitating knowledge sharing, collaboration, and coordinated action among African parliamentarians. Together, we will address common health challenges, share best practices, and amplify our impact in achieving SDG 3 across the continent.”
What role must African parliaments and legislators play in accelerating progress toward SDG 3?
“African parliaments must prioritize health legislation, ensure budget accountability, and engage communities in health policymaking. We must work together to address health inequities, strengthen health systems, and promote universal health coverage. Let us work together to achieve SDG 3 and healthier futures for all Africans.”
Advancing Development in Africa
Health is not just one goal among many. It is a cross-cutting foundation that intersects with all other SDGs. Ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all enables progress in poverty reduction, education, gender equality, economic growth, and climate resilience.
This global vision is mirrored in Africa’s own development blueprint. Goal 3 of Agenda 2063 focuses on health and nutrition, emphasizing the continent’s commitment to improving health outcomes and well-being. In this way, SDG 3 and Agenda 2063 reinforce each other, highlighting the critical role of health in achieving sustainable development.
Through his leadership as Chairman of the Network of African Parliamentary Committees of Health and his work in the Gambia’s National Assembly, Hon. Modou Lamin B. Bah is committed to advancing these goals. His work demonstrates how parliamentary leadership can translate global and continental agendas into real-life health outcomes for African populations.
Learn more about the National Assembly of The Gambia here: https://assembly.gm/
