MSF Honored for Contributions to Sierra Leone’s Health Sector

By Bobor Dan Kamara

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), also known as Doctors Without Borders, has been recognized by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Development (MoPED) for its outstanding efforts in reducing preventable diseases and enhancing maternal and child health services in Bombali and Tonkolili districts. MSF was also acknowledged for its support to government systems, capacity building, resource mobilization, and the provision of life-saving healthcare services.

MoPED partnered with the Sierra Leone Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (SLANGO) to honor over 40 national and international NGOs for their contributions toward the goals of Sierra Leone’s Medium-Term National Development Plan for 2024-2030.

Abi Kebra Belaya, Head of Mission for MSF in Sierra Leone, expressed gratitude for the award, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to collaboration with the Ministry of Health to ensure access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations. She thanked MoPED for the recognition and pledged to continue their impactful work in Sierra Leone.

MSF has been active in Sierra Leone since 1986, providing free healthcare services to local communities. Currently, the organization works alongside the Ministry of Health to deliver free healthcare to children under five, pregnant women, and lactating mothers in Kenema and Tonkolili districts.

In Bombali District, MSF focuses on improving access, diagnosis, and treatment of tuberculosis in both adults and children.

In 2023, MSF facilitated 152,000 outpatient consultations, assisted with 27,100 births, and treated 11,800 malaria cases in Tonkolili and Kenema Districts. Additionally, 2,150 people began tuberculosis treatment in Bombali.