By Amin Kef (Ranger)

In a cutting-edge medical outreach initiative, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in collaboration with the Bintumani Association, is set to provide free pediatric surgery and treatment in Sierra Leone. The program, which will be conducted by a team of experienced German Surgeons, will run from March 21 to April 4, 2025.

The initiative is expected to bring relief to families with children under 15 years old suffering from various medical conditions, including neck fistula and cysts, soft tissue tumors, sequelae of thermal injuries, malformations of the urogenital and gastrointestinal tract, hernias, hypospadias, undescended testes, abdominal wall deformities and minor contractures.

The team of medical professionals includes:

• Dr. Morley Wright - Specialist Paediatrician


• Dr. Ibrahim Al Naieb - Paediatric Surgeon


• Dr. Tilman Gresing - Paediatrician


• Dr. (Mrs.) Kathrin Ruesse - Anaesthetist


• Mrs. Anka Drebes - Nurse Anaesthetist


• Mrs. Madeleine Martin

Choithram Hospital’s Dr. Muctarr Jalloh, HOD Pediatric Department, Dr. Mamadu Barrie, Surgical Resident and Dr. Aruna Maada Jabbi, Pediatric Resident will be assisting the German team.

The Management of Choithram Memorial Hospital further  revealed that the visiting German pediatric surgeons have been carrying out similar medical missions in Sierra Leone since 2010. This year’s surgical camp aims to expand access to quality medical care, especially for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, disclosed in an exclusive interview that patients aged 15 years and below will be screened at various centers, after which a final list will be compiled for evaluation. Selected patients will then be referred to Choithram Memorial Hospital on Hill Station in Freetown, where the procedures will be performed free of charge.

He further elaborated on the conditions to be treated, highlighting that while conditions such as hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, incomplete closing of the backbone, clubfoot, esophageal stricture,and cleft lip and palate will not be included, the surgical team will focus on treatable pediatric conditions to improve the lives of many children.

Registration for free surgeries will commence on February 24, 2025. Interested families can contact the hospital via phone at +232 76541331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital from Monday to Friday for further inquiries.

Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, emphasized that since its establishment, Choithram Memorial Hospital has remained committed to providing quality healthcare services to people from all walks of life in Sierra Leone. He reiterated that the free pediatric surgical camp aligns with the hospital’s mission to ensure access to critical healthcare for children in need.

The initiative has also been strongly supported by H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, who has played a pivotal role in connecting Bintumani Association’s German pediatric and Choithram Memorial Hospital.

Choithram Hospital’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. George acknowledged Ambassador  Dr. M. L. Baryoh’s efforts, stating, “Had it not been for the dedication and commitment of Dr. M. L.  Baryoh, this camp would not have been possible. His unwavering support in facilitating discussions and bringing all parties on board has made this initiative a reality.”

The free pediatric surgery program underscores the dedication of Choithram Memorial Hospital and the Bintumani Association to improving pediatric healthcare in Sierra Leone. By offering life-changing medical interventions to children in need, the initiative is set to make a lasting impact on countless families across the country.