Nordic Life Science 1
Mohamad Alieu Kargbo, Magnus Tisell, Enoch Uche,
and Ulrika Sandvik Measurable, lasting impact Since its inception, SANC has conducted over 120 surgical procedures in hospitals across Nigeria, Gambia, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. More than 200 healthcare professionals have been trained and follow-up studies have shown a 43% increase in locally performed surgery. The initiative is committed to sustainable development and strengthening healthcare systems in the target regions and has been independently evaluated and praised for its lasting impact on neurosurgical care in West Africa. M 82 | NORDICLIFESCIENCE.ORG agnus Tisell emphasizes the importance of this approach: “We’re not a hit-and-run SWAT team. Our entire purpose is to collaborate for the long term and help build local expertise. That’s why all surgery is performed by local medical staff, in close cooperation with the Swedish members of SANC,” he explains. SANC's work is supported by various sponsors and partners, including the Swedish Neurosurgical Society, Sahlgrenska International Care and Uppsala University Hospital providing equipment. However, for the organization to be able to sustain and expand its work, it is dependent on finding partners who can support both materially and financially. “We aim to create opportunities through which companies benefit from increased visibility in emerging markets and strategic positioning – while we continue to welcome philanthropic contributions from both corporations and the general public. Every single contribution goes directly to the mission, as the organization is entirely volunteer-driven,” explains Tisell. He continues to explain how they already have proven that it is possible to create a win-win for companies willing to support, since this has been part of the approach from the very beginning. “The goodwill that comes with contributing to such a high-impact initiative is of course beneficial for marketing purposes and to position yourself as an employer that cares about something greater in times of global turmoil,” he says. COMMENTARY // CASE