By Amin Kef (Ranger)

Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, embarked on a comprehensive tour of Connaught Hospital to assess the progress of major healthcare projects. His visit comes as part of the Government's ongoing efforts to improve the healthcare sector under the leadership of President Julius Maada Bio.

The Vice President's tour focused on several key initiatives aimed at enhancing healthcare delivery across the nation. Among the projects he inspected was the much-anticipated Burns Unit, a vital addition to the hospital following the devastating Wellington fire incident. Once completed, the Unit will not only serve Sierra Leone but will also provide specialized burns management training to healthcare professionals from neighboring Guinea and Liberia, fostering regional collaboration in healthcare.

Dr. Juldeh Jalloh also visited the site for the installation of a 1 Megawatt (MW) Solar Energy System at Connaught Hospital, which is set to bolster the hospital’s energy supply, ensuring consistent power for critical healthcare services. Additionally, he reviewed the operationalization of the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system, a transformative initiative introduced by his office a year ago, which promises to streamline patient management and improve healthcare delivery.

During the tour, the Vice President also inspected several other critical facilities, including the newly established microbiology laboratory, dialysis center, and trauma units. These state-of-the-art facilities are expected to enhance diagnostic capabilities, treatment options, and overall patient care, in line with the government’s objective of improving healthcare infrastructure and services to meet international standards.

“The completion of the Burns Unit will not only provide world-class care for Sierra Leoneans but will also serve as a regional hub for specialized burns management, supporting neighboring Guinea and Liberia,” Vice President Juldeh Jalloh emphasized.

The Vice President's visit highlighted the significant strides made in Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector, which continues to see improvements through strategic investments in health infrastructure. Dr. Juldeh Jalloh expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far, asserting that “Connaught yesterday is far different from the one today,” reflecting the positive transformation the hospital has undergone under the current administration.

The Vice President also took the opportunity to underscore the collaborative effort between his office, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, led by Dr. Austin Demby and a host of development partners. Together, they have been working to deliver on the government’s promise of accessible and quality healthcare for all Sierra Leoneans.

In his closing remarks, Dr. Juldeh Jalloh reiterated his commitment to ensuring that healthcare delivery remains a priority under President Julius Maada Bio’s leadership, stressing that the government's focus on improving the health system is integral to the country’s broader development agenda. His direct involvement in monitoring these critical projects demonstrates his proactive and results-oriented approach to governance, emphasizing transparency, accountability and a people-centered vision for Sierra Leone’s future.

As the country continues to make strides in healthcare, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh’s visit serves as a testament to the Government's dedication to tangible progress, reassuring the citizens of Sierra Leone that their welfare remains a top priority.