By: Fatmata Grace Okekearu
The Surgeon General of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces (RSLAF) Defence Medical Services, Brigadier General Dr. Stephen Sivalie, on Friday, September 18, 2026, commissioned a newly constructed mental health facility at the 5 Infantry Brigade in Gondama, Tikonko Chiefdom, Bo District.
The facility, constructed by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, is aimed at improving access to mental health services for serving military personnel, residents of Gondama and communities across the Southern Region.
Brigadier General Dr. Sivalie was accompanied by senior military personnel and other stakeholders at the commissioning ceremony, which marked a significant step towards strengthening mental health services within the RSLAF and surrounding communities.
According to Brig. Gen. Dr. Sivalie, the facility forms part of the Church’s support for efforts to strengthen mental healthcare services for military personnel and civilians in the region.
He said the facility is equipped with a telehealth platform, modern medical equipment, an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hub, solar power facilities and submersible pumps.
He added that the combination of these facilities is expected to enhance the centre’s capacity to provide accessible and sustainable mental health services.
Speaking at the ceremony, Johnnie Christopher Walters, State President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Bo/East State, said the project was undertaken as part of the Church’s commitment to supporting the 5 Infantry Brigade and the wider community.
He explained that the initiative was inspired by the teachings and example of Jesus Christ, particularly the call to provide service and support to people in need.
President Walters said the facility would help address mental health challenges and provide care to vulnerable and disadvantaged people who require such services.
He expressed hope that the facility would contribute to improving the mental health and overall wellbeing of people who access its services.
In his keynote statement, Brigadier General A.O. Kamara, Commander of the 5 Infantry Brigade, described mental health as a serious challenge facing Sierra Leone.
He noted that the country continues to face economic and social challenges, while the increasing use of drugs and other substances among young people has added further pressure on the Government and society.
Brig. Gen. Kamara stressed the need to strengthen mental health services to respond to these challenges, particularly among vulnerable groups and communities.
“The facility is a symbol of hope and care and is the first of its kind in the region,” Brig. Gen. Kamara said.
He expressed appreciation to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for supporting the project and contributing to the welfare of military personnel and residents of surrounding communities.
The commissioning of the facility is expected to expand access to mental health services in the Southern Region while supporting the welfare of serving military personnel.
Its medical equipment, telehealth services, ICT infrastructure and alternative power supply are also expected to help ensure continuity of services and strengthen the centre’s capacity to respond to mental health needs.
The ceremony concluded with a tour and inspection of the newly commissioned facility, during which stakeholders viewed its various sections and available services.
Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to supporting and sustaining the project to ensure that it achieves its intended objectives and continues to serve military personnel, residents of Gondama and communities across the Southern Region.
The commissioning marks a further step towards strengthening mental health support and improving access to mental healthcare services in Sierra Leone.