The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC) Board, under the leadership of its Chairperson, Dr Sonia Spencer, has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery, advancing medical education, and expanding research collaborations across Sierra Leone.
As part of its strategic engagement with affiliate institutions, the Board concluded its three-hospital nationwide tour with a working visit to Makeni Hospital, following earlier successful engagements at Kenema Government Hospital and Bo Government Hospital. The visit marks another milestone in USLTHC’s ongoing mission to build stronger partnerships that enhance clinical training, professional development, and patient care throughout the country.
Promoting Excellence in Medical Training and Service Delivery
During the visit, Dr Spencer was joined by Acting Chief Medical Director, Prof. Kehinde S. Oluwadiya, and Board Member, Mr Alhaji Salieu Kamara. The delegation highlighted key achievements made under the current USLTHC leadership—particularly in the areas of residency training, accreditation, and specialised services.
Dr Spencer proudly noted that the residency training program has seen remarkable growth—from just 15 residents in 2019 to over 100 active trainees in 2025. Similarly, the number of medical trainers and consultants has increased from a handful to 36 qualified specialists, comprising both Sierra Leonean and international professionals.
Prof. Oluwadiya added that all seven core clinical departments within the USLTHC network now enjoy full or partial accreditation to train specialists at both Membership and Fellowship levels. He also revealed ongoing efforts to expand into two additional medical disciplines, ensuring Sierra Leone continues to produce highly skilled medical professionals capable of delivering world-class healthcare.
Pioneering Neurosurgery Services in Sierra Leone
One of the most transformative achievements highlighted by Dr Spencer is the introduction of neurosurgery services in Sierra Leone—a major breakthrough in the nation’s medical landscape.
With sustained support from the Government of Sierra Leone, alongside international partners such as the World Federation of Neurosurgical Societies (WFNS) and Mission Brain, the USLTHC has successfully trained two doctors and 18 nurses in Neurotrauma and Neurosurgery management. Impressively, the team has already performed two successful neurosurgical operations, marking a significant leap forward in specialist surgical care within the country.
Dr. Spencer also announced the official launch of the Sierra Leone Journal of Medicine (SLJM)—a peer-reviewed academic platform designed to promote medical research, innovation, and knowledge sharing among local and international scholars. The journal represents an important step toward strengthening the culture of scientific publication and evidence-based practice in Sierra Leone.
Strengthening Collaboration and Embracing Innovation
At Makeni Hospital, the delegation was warmly received by Dr Masiray C. Kamara, Head of the Paediatrics Department, and Mr Mohamed Kebe, Hospital Secretary. Both expressed their appreciation for the Board’s visit and reaffirmed their hospital’s readiness to collaborate closely with USLTHC in implementing modern healthcare practices.
Dr Kamara particularly emphasised the potential of telemedicine in improving access to quality healthcare for patients in remote areas. She expressed Makeni Hospital’s eagerness to adopt digital health tools and participate in the USLTHC’s planned telemedicine initiatives.
Similarly, Dr Bockarie commended the creation of the Sierra Leone Journal of Medicine, describing it as a vital platform for showcasing local research and elevating the voices of healthcare professionals nationwide.
Community Engagement and Public Education
The visit concluded with a comprehensive tour of Makeni Hospital, where Board members assessed the facility’s infrastructure, service delivery challenges, and ongoing improvement efforts.
In addition, the team participated in a live radio discussion on SLBC Makeni, where they engaged the public on topics including the role of USLTHC, ongoing health sector reforms, and how communities can access specialised healthcare services more effectively.
USLTHC’s Vision for a Stronger Health System
Through initiatives such as these, affiliate hospital visits, USLTHC continues to drive forward its national vision of a modern, resilient, and integrated healthcare system. The Board’s proactive engagement reflects its unwavering dedication to:
- Strengthening collaboration with regional hospitals
- Expanding specialist training and research capacity
- Introducing cutting-edge clinical services
- Enhancing community outreach and patient education
The Makeni visit stands as a powerful demonstration of USLTHC’s leadership in medical education, research, and service delivery—a partnership-driven approach that is steadily transforming Sierra Leone’s healthcare landscape.