By Amin Kef (Ranger)

The First Lady of Sierra Leone, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, has received a generous donation of four ultrasound machines and one GPS from the Republic of Korea for the 34 Military Hospital. The official handover ceremony took place on Wednesday February 5, 2025 at the Presidential Lodge, marking another milestone in the strengthening partnership between the two nations.

During the event, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio emphasized the significance of the donation, stating, “These vital imaging devices utilize high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of internal body structures, thereby enhancing diagnostic capabilities and improving healthcare delivery.”

Expressing her deep appreciation, the First Lady acknowledged the Republic of Korea’s continuous support for her office and the Government of Sierra Leone. “This generous donation does not come as a surprise, as the Republic of Korea has consistently supported the Office of the First Lady and by extension, the Government of Sierra Leone,” she remarked.

On behalf of President Julius Maada Bio and the people of Sierra Leone, she extended her gratitude to the Republic of Korea, underscoring the importance of international partnerships in advancing healthcare. She further expressed optimism about maintaining and expanding this collaboration, stating, “I sincerely hope that we can continue this fruitful relationship for many years to come, even after my tenure as First Lady has concluded.”

The donation is expected to significantly enhance healthcare services, particularly in maternal and child health, reinforcing Sierra Leone’s commitment to providing quality medical care for its citizens.

In a related development, on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio spearheaded the distribution of free sanitary pads and shoes to school-going children in Port Loko District. This initiative is part of her ongoing efforts to promote education, gender equality and the overall well-being of children across the country.

The First Lady highlighted the importance of menstrual health and hygiene in empowering girls to stay in school with confidence and dignity. “Many girls miss out on their education simply because they lack access to sanitary pads. This should never be a barrier to learning,” she stated. By providing these essential items, the initiative seeks to eliminate obstacles that prevent young girls from attending school due to menstrual challenges.

Beyond menstrual hygiene support, the First Lady also recognized the need to provide essential resources for boys. Free shoes were distributed to ensure their comfort and safety in school. She reiterated her commitment to fostering an equitable society where both boys and girls have the necessary tools to excel academically.

The initiative was warmly received by students, teachers and parents, who expressed deep gratitude for the First Lady’s unwavering dedication to children’s education and welfare.

This humanitarian gesture aligns with Dr. Fatima Maada Bio’s broader advocacy for women’s and children’s rights, particularly through her “Hands Off Our Girls” campaign. She reaffirmed her dedication to championing initiatives that address critical challenges faced by school-going children in Sierra Leone. She also encouraged community leaders, stakeholders and development partners to collaborate in supporting programs that empower young people and create a brighter future for the nation.