By: Precious Miracle Kargbo
In a major boost to healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone, the Minister of Health, Hon. Dr. Austin Demby, together with members of the Ministry’s senior management team, officially commissioned a state-of-the-art Trauma Centre at Masanga Hospital on 17 January 2026 in Magburaka, Tonkolili District.
The newly commissioned Trauma Centre is expected to significantly strengthen emergency medical services at the hospital and improve treatment outcomes for patients suffering from severe injuries and life-threatening conditions.
Following the commissioning ceremony, Minister Demby toured the construction site of a new Pediatric Centre, which is designed to provide specialized healthcare services for children. The facility, once completed, will help address critical gaps in pediatric care in the region and forms part of the government’s broader agenda to improve health infrastructure nationwide.
During the visit, the Minister and his team held discussions with hospital management on the wide range of clinical services currently provided at Masanga Hospital. Situated on the outskirts of Magburaka, the hospital remains a key referral facility serving communities across the northern region. Minister Demby emphasized the need to continually expand medical services, infrastructure, and human resource capacity to meet the growing healthcare needs of the population.
“Today marks a significant milestone for Masanga Hospital and the healthcare system in Sierra Leone,” the Minister stated. He underscored the importance of the hospital’s collaboration with the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex, which supports the training of surgeons and medical residents. According to him, such partnerships are vital for building a skilled and sustainable healthcare workforce.
The engagement also highlighted the hospital’s transition into full government management, a move aimed at strengthening governance, improving service delivery, and ensuring long-term sustainability. Minister Demby commended the dedication and professionalism of the medical staff and outlined plans to further expand services, including orthopedic and prosthetic care.
The commissioning of the Trauma Centre and the ongoing construction of the Pediatric Centre demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
These initiatives represent critical steps toward building a resilient healthcare system that prioritizes patient care, strengthens service delivery, and promotes the overall wellbeing of Sierra Leoneans. Through continued investment in medical infrastructure, training, and innovation, the Ministry of Health is laying the foundation for a healthier and more sustainable future.
