The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC) Board, under the leadership of Chairperson Dr Sonia Spencer, has successfully completed a strategic outreach mission to its affiliate hospitals in Kenema and Bo. The two-day visit, held on February 5th and 6th, 2025, was part of ongoing efforts to deepen collaboration, strengthen institutional partnerships, and enhance medical training, research, and healthcare service delivery across the country.
The high-powered delegation included Acting Chief Medical Director, Prof. Kehinde S. Oluwadiya, and Board Members — Mr Ibrahim Foday Musa, Mr Alhaji Salieu Kamara, and Madam Haja Hawa Turay. The visit aimed to assess progress within affiliate institutions, reinforce coordination between central and regional hospitals, and explore innovative approaches for sustainable health system development in Sierra Leone.
Engagement with Kenema Government Hospital
At Kenema Government Hospital, the USLTHC delegation was warmly received by Medical Superintendent Abdulai Tejan Jalloh and his management team.
Dr Spencer reaffirmed the Board’s unwavering commitment to medical education and capacity building, noting the remarkable growth in residency training programs, which have expanded from 15 residents in 2019 to over 100 today.
She emphasised that this progress reflects USLTHC’s mission to train competent specialists who can meet Sierra Leone’s growing healthcare demands.
Prof. Oluwadiya provided further insights into the academic and clinical advancements achieved under USLTHC’s leadership. He highlighted the accreditation of seven departments for Membership and Fellowship training by the West African College of Physicians (WACP) and West African College of Surgeons (WACS), with two additional departments currently undergoing accreditation processes.
Another milestone shared was the launch of the Sierra Leone Journal of Medicine (SLJM) — an academic platform designed to promote locally relevant medical research, evidence-based practice, and scientific collaboration among healthcare professionals.
One of the most notable developments discussed was the introduction of neurosurgical services at the teaching hospital, with two successful neurosurgery operations already performed — a significant breakthrough for Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.
Partnership with Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Hospital, Kenema
The Board’s visit to the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Hospital in Kenema further underscored USLTHC’s commitment to integrated healthcare systems.
Hospital Head Mr Mohamed Alie briefed the delegation on the ongoing transition of the MSF facility into government oversight by 2028, marking a major step towards sustainable national healthcare management.
Dr Spencer commended MSF for its years of humanitarian support and expressed optimism about the continuity of technical assistance beyond the handover period. The collaboration aligns with USLTHC’s broader vision of fostering stronger partnerships between national and international health stakeholders.
Visit to Bo Government Hospital
At Bo Government Hospital, the delegation was welcomed by District Medical Officer Dr Amara Stevens and Medical Superintendent Dr Osman Kakay.
During the engagement, Mr Ibrahim Foday Musa, representing the Chief Medical Officer (CMO) on the USLTHC Board, reaffirmed the government’s dedication to improving healthcare infrastructure and ensuring that medical professionals are equipped with modern diagnostic tools.
He announced the arrival of two CT scan machines and other critical medical equipment that will enhance diagnostic capabilities at both teaching and regional hospitals — a development that will directly support resident doctors and specialist trainees across the country.
Public Engagement and Awareness
In both Kenema and Bo, the USLTHC team participated in radio discussions to engage the public and raise awareness about the institution’s role in advancing healthcare education and service delivery.
The discussions focused on USLTHC’s statutory mandates, ongoing reforms, and the importance of collaborative healthcare governance between the teaching complex and its affiliate hospitals.
Through these public platforms, the Board encouraged community involvement, transparency, and public trust in Sierra Leone’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Commitment to Continued Collaboration
The USLTHC Board remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening partnerships, expanding postgraduate medical training, and enhancing patient care across Sierra Leone.
By working closely with affiliate hospitals in Bo, Kenema, and beyond, the Board aims to create a unified, efficient, and research-driven healthcare system capable of meeting the needs of all Sierra Leoneans.
“Our goal is to build a resilient healthcare ecosystem anchored on education, research, and service excellence,” said Dr. Sonia Spencer.
“Through collaboration and innovation, USLTHC will continue to shape the future of medical training and healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone.”
About USLTHC
The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC) is the country’s apex medical training and service institution. It provides specialised healthcare, postgraduate medical education, and research support in collaboration with the College of Medicine and Allied Health Sciences (COMAHS).
USLTHC serves as a hub for clinical excellence, academic growth, and innovation, playing a critical role in strengthening Sierra Leone’s health system.