By: Saidu Jalloh, Daily Scope
Women seeking maternity and fistula care in northern Sierra Leone now have access to improved facilities following the handover of rehabilitated wards at Makeni Regional Hospital.
The project, funded by the United Nations Population Fund and the Embassy of Iceland, was officially handed over Tuesday. Health officials, hospital management, and development partners attended the ceremony, which underscored ongoing efforts to cut maternal deaths and expand reproductive healthcare in Bombali District and beyond.
Medical Superintendent Dr. Joseph Kamanda Sesay said the upgrades would raise standards of care, protect patient dignity, and improve treatment outcomes. The hospital handled 4,319 deliveries in 2025 and serves more than 527,000 people across Bombali and neighboring areas, he said.
Bombali District Medical Officer said Makeni Regional Hospital records the second-highest number of maternity and caesarean deliveries in the country, behind Princess Christian Maternity Hospital in Freetown. He stressed the need to maintain the new wards to ensure lasting service for mothers and newborns.
Representatives from UNFPA and the Icelandic Embassy reaffirmed their commitment to maternal and reproductive health in Sierra Leone. UNFPA said it currently supports over 15 health facilities nationwide, focusing on obstetric fistula reduction and health system strengthening.
The Head of Mission for the Embassy of Iceland said gender equality remains a core priority for her government. The project, she noted, aims to restore dignity and expand access for women affected by obstetric fistula and other maternal complications.
Officials said the rehabilitated wards are expected to ease pressure on the hospital and improve access for patients from surrounding communities.
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