President Julius Maada Bio commissioned a suite of advanced diagnostic and emergency-care facilities at Connaught Government Hospital in Freetown on Thursday, emphasising his administration’s commitment to creating a people-centred, resilient health system. Sierra Leone now has publicly owned advanced CT scanners, upgraded ultrasound equipment, and a fully equipped burns unit, enhancing the country’s ability to diagnose and manage complex and life-threatening conditions.
President Bio praised the dedication of healthcare workers, partners, and stakeholders involved in the project and urged staff to maintain high levels of professionalism and proper maintenance of the new facilities. He framed the investment in health infrastructure as part of a larger national strategy to prioritise human capital development, stating that the nation’s strength is dependent on its people’s health and urging citizens and health professionals to protect the facilities so that they can continue to serve the public effectively.
Andrew Sorie, Senior Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, described President Bio as a visionary leader whose global partnerships have catalysed transformative progress in the healthcare sector. Dr I.M. Kapuwa, Medical Superintendent of Connaught Hospital, greeted the President and expressed gratitude for the ongoing investments, emphasising that the commissioning demonstrates tangible leadership and commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s health system.
Dr Musa Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, explained that the project was informed in part by the lessons learned from the Wellington fuel tanker explosion, which exposed critical gaps in emergency response capacity. He stated that the new diagnostic tools and dedicated burns unit represent a deliberate shift from reactive to prepared healthcare delivery, which will improve the nation’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to major incidents and severe injuries.
Mr Cole, CEO of NP/Leoneoil, praised the collaboration between government and industry, stating that the project exemplifies the potential of public-private partnerships. He highlighted the burns unit as an example of improved care for citizens. Dr Austin Demby, Minister of Health, described the commissioning as a historic step forward in diagnostic capability and emergency care, stating that the equipment will significantly improve service delivery and patient outcomes.
The commissioning of Connaught Hospital is being hailed as a watershed moment in Sierra Leone’s ongoing health-care reform, reflecting concerted efforts to expand infrastructure, improve service delivery, and build a more resilient, responsive healthcare system for all.
