The Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown witnessed a momentous occasion on Monday, March 4th, 2024, as the Honourable Vice President of Sierra Leone, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, inaugurated the highly anticipated 64th Annual Conference and Scientific Meeting of the West African College of Surgeons.
The theme of this year’s conference, “Access to Safe and Affordable Surgical and Anaesthesia Care in West Africa,” drew attention to pressing healthcare issues in the region.
Distinguished surgeons and healthcare professionals from across West Africa gathered for the event, which commenced with a Pre-Press Conference on Sunday, March 3rd, and is scheduled to continue until Thursday, March 7th, 2024. The conference aims to facilitate scientific exchanges and discuss strategies for advancing surgical practices in the region.
In his address, Vice President Jalloh extended a warm welcome to all participants on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, who was unable to attend due to official duties overseas.
Emphasizing Sierra Leone’s stability and promising future, Dr. Jalloh invited attendees to experience the country’s renowned hospitality and vibrant culture.
Dr. Jalloh underscored the pivotal role of surgery in healthcare and its potential to alleviate suffering and improve lives. He commended the West African College of Surgeons for its dedication to advancing surgical education and practice across the region.
Highlighting the importance of surgical care in achieving universal health coverage and economic prosperity, the Vice President called for increased investment in surgery and cited the economic benefits of expanding surgical services in low and middle-income countries.
Despite acknowledging the progress made in expanding access to surgical services in Sierra Leone, Dr. Jalloh highlighted the challenges ahead, particularly the high unmet surgical needs in the country. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to further expanding surgical access and improving the quality of services.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, echoed Dr. Jalloh’s sentiments, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and innovation in healthcare.
He outlined plans to implement initiatives to enhance access to surgical care nationwide, despite challenges such as limited resources and skilled healthcare professionals.
Professor Ezeome Emmanuel, President of the West African College of Surgeons, expressed gratitude to dignitaries and government officials for their support. He highlighted the importance of collaboration and partnership in driving advancements in surgical practice and healthcare delivery across the region.
As the conference progresses, participants are expected to engage in discussions aimed at addressing key healthcare issues and advancing surgical practice in West Africa. The event serves as a platform for fostering collaboration and innovation to enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes in the region.
The conference also saw the conferment of an Honorary Grand Patron on President Julius Maada Bio, recognizing his commitment to advancing healthcare in Sierra Leone.
The conferment was handed over to Vice President Jalloh, who represented the President at the ceremony.
