BY MOHAMED SAHR
mohamedsahrpro@gmail.com
In a significant move for Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector, the Ministry of Health has announced its preparations to host the 64th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the West Africa College of Surgeons. The announcement was made during a press briefing held at the Youyi Building in Freetown yesterday.
Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Clinical Services at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the longstanding presence of the West Africa College of Surgeons, operating across Francophone and Anglophone countries in the region for over sixty years. The conference aims to foster scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing among over 500 surgeons expected to attend from various West African nations.
The event, scheduled to take place from March 3rd to 7th, 2024, at the Bintumani Conference Centre, marks the first time Sierra Leone will host such a large gathering of highly skilled surgeons. Dr. Kabba emphasized that this demonstrates the country’s growing reputation in the health sector and will contribute to local training in surgery and access to specialized care.
Dr. Kabba also underscored the economic and tourism benefits of hosting the conference, stating that the influx of attendees will boost the economy and provide opportunities for showcasing Sierra Leonean research achievements.
Dr. Abdulai Jalloh, Chair of the Scientific Committee, outlined the pre-conference activities, including a surgical outreach program offering specialized surgeries free of charge to Sierra Leoneans in various locations across the country. These surgeries, including laparoscopic procedures, aim to address healthcare needs in underserved areas.
The conference is expected to attract not only seasoned surgeons but also young doctors and medical experts interested in fields such as anesthesia, radiology, and gynecology, providing them with valuable scientific knowledge and networking opportunities.
Dr. Kabba expressed gratitude to organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and UNFPA for their support and funding towards the success of the conference, reaffirming President Bio’s commitment to its outcomes.
The gathering is anticipated to facilitate high levels of interaction among delegates and offer solutions to pressing healthcare challenges in the region.
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