In a significant move to bolster Sierra Leone’s healthcare system, Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh visited Connaught Hospital to inspect ongoing infrastructure and service delivery projects. Accompanied by the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, and the Deputy Chief Medical Officer, the Vice President assessed the progress of critical initiatives to modernise the country's premier referral hospital.
Among the flagship projects reviewed was the solar power initiative, a one-megawatt renewable energy system designed to electrify the hospital and reduce reliance on diesel generators. Expressing satisfaction with the progress, the Vice President noted that the project, set for completion in the coming months, would enhance hospital operations and ensure a sustainable energy supply for essential medical services.
During the visit, the Vice President also toured the newly established Burn Unit, created in response to the Wellington fire disaster, to address critical orthopaedic care gaps. He commended the initiative, acknowledging that the facility will significantly expand Connaught Hospital’s capacity to manage severe burn cases and other trauma-related injuries.
The inspection further highlighted advancements in medical technology at the hospital, including the fully operational dialysis centre, which provides affordable treatment for patients with kidney-related conditions, and the state-of-the-art digital laboratory, enhancing diagnostic accuracy. Stressing the importance of modern equipment in effective healthcare delivery, the Vice President remarked, “A well-equipped laboratory is fundamental to precise diagnosis and quality patient care.”
Additionally, he reviewed the hospital’s electronic medical records system, a project spearheaded by his office that is already operational in the Outpatient Department. The system streamlines patient data management and improves service efficiency.
Minister of Health Dr. Demby praised the Vice President’s leadership in advancing Sierra Leone’s healthcare agenda. He emphasised the broader vision underpinning the renewable energy project at Connaught Hospital, revealing that 18 hospitals and 260 Primary Health Units (PHUs) are transitioning to renewable energy as part of a national strategy to enhance healthcare sustainability. Dr. Demby affirmed that these initiatives, championed by the President and Vice President, would serve as a model for healthcare transformation across the region.
Dr. Kapuwa, Head Doctor at Connaught Hospital, reassured the public that all projects were on track for completion within their designated timelines. He highlighted the Ministry of Health’s steadfast commitment to strengthening healthcare services and ensuring the hospital’s continued development.
Concluding his visit, the Vice President pledged to return in the coming months to review the progress of key projects, particularly the solar energy system and the Burn Unit. He lauded the dedication of healthcare professionals and reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to advancing Sierra Leone’s healthcare infrastructure for the benefit of all citizens.
Aminata Turay
Office of the Vice President
099776914
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