By Kadijatu A Turay
No matter what, we all would be very safe to agree that the PCMH commonly called Cottage hospital had done a great job in Sierra Leone, but that it needed some helper. This is why the new hospital at Lumley is a step in the right direction. The relevance of the health status of kids and lactating mothers is an expression of the obvious.
In a groundbreaking development for paediatric healthcare in Sierra Leone, the Government of Japan officially handed over a new $16 million state-of-the-art children’s hospital located in Lumley, Freetown. This significant contribution is expected to transform paediatric care in the region, providing a much-needed boost to the nation’s healthcare infrastructure.
The newly inaugurated facility is equipped with cutting-edge medical technology and offers a wide range of services, including advanced diagnostic and treatment options for various paediatric conditions. The hospital’s modern amenities and specialized departments are designed to cater to the unique medical needs of children, ensuring they receive the highest standard of care.
This landmark project is poised to address the longstanding challenges faced by the paediatric healthcare sector in Sierra Leone. Historically, the country has grappled with limited healthcare resources and facilities, often resulting in inadequate care for its youngest citizens. The establishment of this hospital marks a significant step forward in bridging this gap, offering hope and improved health outcomes for countless children.
Dr. Aisha Kamara, the Chief Medical Officer of the new hospital, expressed her gratitude to the Government of Japan for their generous contribution. “This hospital represents a beacon of hope for the children of Sierra Leone. With these state-of-the-art facilities, we can now provide comprehensive and specialized care that was previously unavailable. It is a transformative moment for paediatric healthcare in our country,” she stated.
The successful completion of the children’s hospital is a testament to the strong and enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and Japan. Over the years, Japan has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting Sierra Leone’s development through various initiatives and aid programs. This latest project underscores Japan’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for the people of Sierra Leone.
Japanese Ambassador to Sierra Leone, Mr. Hiroshi Yamamoto, highlighted the importance of the project during the handover ceremony. “We are honored to support the people of Sierra Leone with this state-of-the-art children’s hospital. It is our hope that this facility will serve as a foundation for a healthier future for the children of this nation. Japan remains committed to working closely with Sierra Leone to achieve sustainable development goals and improve the well-being of its citizens,” he remarked.
As the new children’s hospital begins its operations, there is an air of optimism and excitement among healthcare professionals and the local community. The facility is expected to attract top medical talent, foster research and innovation, and ultimately, lead to better health outcomes for children across the country.
The Government of Sierra Leone has pledged its full support to ensure the smooth functioning and sustainability of the hospital. Plans are already underway to integrate the facility into the national healthcare system, with a focus on training and capacity building for local healthcare professionals.
In conclusion, the inauguration of the $16 million children’s hospital in Lumley, Freetown, represents a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s journey towards improving paediatric healthcare. Thanks to the generosity and support of the Government of Japan, the future looks brighter for the children of Sierra Leone, who now have access to world-class medical care in their own country.
Copyright –Published in print in Expo Times Newspaper on Friday, July 5th, 2024 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)
