Africa-Press – Sierra-Leone. Senior government officials, led by the Deputy Minister of Health I, Prof. Charles Senessie, have visited the Paul E. Farmer Maternal Center of Excellence in Koidu City, Kono District, in a significant show of commitment to strengthening maternal and child healthcare in Sierra Leone.
The visit followed a comprehensive presentation during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s Kono Civic Day Series, where key health sector achievements and ongoing government investments in the district were highlighted.
The Civic Day platform continues to serve as a bridge between government and citizens, providing updates on national development initiatives and creating space for engagement.
The Paul E. Farmer Maternal Center of Excellence, constructed by Partners In Health Sierra Leone in partnership with the Government of Sierra Leone, officially commenced inpatient services on 14th February 2026. The ultramodern facility is designed to significantly improve maternal and newborn healthcare outcomes in Kono District and beyond.
During the inspection tour, the delegation assessed the Centre’s state-of-the-art infrastructure, advanced medical equipment, and specialized maternal and neonatal services. Officials were briefed on the operational systems in place, staffing capacity, and emergency response readiness.
Initial service data reflects a strong community response and robust operational capacity. On its opening day alone, the Centre attended to 27 patients and successfully conducted 13 deliveries, including seven cesarean sections. These figures underscore the facility’s preparedness to handle both routine and complex obstetric cases from the onset.
With a 120-bed capacity, the Centre is well-positioned to serve as a referral hub for the district. Notably, it houses the country’s first 39-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), marking a major milestone in Sierra Leone’s healthcare system. The NICU is expected to provide critical care for premature and high-risk newborns, significantly improving survival rates.
Speaking during the visit, officials reaffirmed the government’s dedication to expanding access to quality, life-saving healthcare services for women and children. The establishment of the Centre aligns with national strategies aimed at reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, particularly in underserved districts.
The Deputy Minister and his delegation commended the partnership between government and development partners, describing the facility as a symbol of progress and a transformative investment in the health and future of Sierra Leonean families.
As services continue to expand, the Paul E. Farmer Maternal Center of Excellence stands as a beacon of hope for mothers and newborns in Kono District and across the country.
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