Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio has on Friday 14 Juje 2024 officially commissioned the state-of-the-art Lumley Children’s Hospital “Paediatric Centre of Excellence” at Regent Road, Lumley, in Freetown.
The new hospital, named the President Dr. Julius Maada Bio Pediatric Center of Excellence, features 166 beds for children and 46 beds for parents, marking a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in maternal and child health services.
In his keynote address, President Bio highlighted the importance of this development in the context of the nation’s broader human capital aspirations.
He expressed gratitude to the Japanese International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for funding the construction of the hospital, emphasizing the critical role of international partnerships in advancing Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.
“Today is another milestone towards the accomplishment of one of our development aspirations: the development of our human capital. What is a human being without good health? This question underscores our unwavering determination to protect and secure the wellbeing of our children, who are the future leaders of our nation,” President Bio stated.
He also expressed deep appreciation to the Minister and staff of the Ministry of Health, and the leadership of the hospital, for their invaluable support and dedication.
“We have made significant strides in addressing healthcare challenges, reducing maternal mortality by approximately 61% in recent years. This did not happen by accident; it was intentional and purposeful, a result of tangible actions with tangible results,” President Bio noted.
The Lumley Children’s Hospital symbolizes hope and progress for Sierra Leone. Beyond its physical structure, it hosts state-of-the-art facilities and specialized departments tailored to meet the unique needs of children. From pediatric surgery to neonatal care, every aspect has been meticulously designed to deliver excellence in healthcare.
As the event concluded, the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, thanked President Bio for his outstanding leadership.
“President, you said we should think big and deliver for the people of Sierra Leone , we have delivered,” Dr. Demby said. He also extended his gratitude to First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio for her unwavering support in the healthcare sector.
The commissioning of the Lumley Children’s Hospital is a monumental step in Sierra Leone’s journey towards improved healthcare. It stands as a beacon of hope, showcasing the country’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind, especially its youngest citizens.
