On Tuesday, August 1st, 2023, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation (MOHS) held an induction ceremony at the Family Kingdom Resort in Aberdeen, Freetown, to welcome 110 junior doctors.
The event was also marked by the distribution of pay cheques to doctors who were assigned to different regions, along with the presentation of 42 state-of-the-art ultrasound devices to major hospitals across the country.
Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Clinical Services, highlighted that the group comprised both recent graduates and those who completed their studies last year.
He stressed the importance of a smooth transition and support to ensure the success of these junior doctors in their careers.
He said the ceremony served as a platform for the Ministry to explain the expectations for the doctors.
An anonymous donor funded the rent allowances, with each doctor receiving $150 USD per month. The funds will cover rent allowance for 50-60 doctors posted in rural areas over the next three years.
During his keynote address, Minister of Health and Sanitation, Austin Demby, encouraged the junior doctors to wear their white coats with pride, emphasizing the significance of their profession and the importance of building a strong healthcare system within the nation.
The President of the Junior Doctors Association, James Tamba, expressed gratitude for the payment of rent allowances, as some doctors faced accommodation challenges in their regional postings.
He said that he and his colleagues are eager to serve their nation and contribute to its betterment.
