By Davida Spaine Solomon
Freetown, 13th April, 2026– Sierra Leone is edging closer to a major milestone in its healthcare transformation, as a 100-bed specialist hospital in Moyamba nears completion, signalling a strategic shift toward expanding advanced medical services beyond primary care.
During an inspection of the ongoing construction, Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, reaffirmed government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure and closing long-standing gaps in secondary and tertiary care.
“For the longest time, we have focused on taking healthcare closer to the people through primary care,” Dr. Demby said. “But when that fails, there has been a difficult landing. This investment is about fixing that gap.”
The Moyamba facility currently about 70 percent complete is part of a broader three-hospital initiative alongside projects in Pujehun and Karene, aimed at boosting district-level capacity to handle complex medical cases.
Accompanied by senior ministry officials, engineers, consultants, and local authorities, the minister toured key sections of the site, including wards, maternity and delivery units, surgical theatres, intensive care unit (ICU), nursery, and mortuary. The visit focused not only on progress but also on ensuring the hospital meets modern standards for efficient healthcare delivery.
Critical infrastructure needs took center stage during the inspection. Dr. Demby stressed the importance of reliable water and energy systems, urging the project team to accurately assess demand, secure sustainable supply sources, and ensure proper distribution across the facility. Concerns were also raised about the positioning of the borehole and water tower, as well as the need for a dependable electricity system capable of supporting future expansion.
Medical oxygen systems essential for emergency and surgical care were also highlighted. Consultant surgeon Dr. Kabba underscored the need for precise engineering, particularly in high-risk areas such as the ICU and operating theatres.
He further called for the inclusion of end users, including surgeons and nurses, in the final construction phase to ensure the hospital’s design aligns with real-world medical needs.
Attention was also given to the hospital’s functionality and patient flow, with recommendations for wider corridors and doorways to accommodate beds and equipment. In the maternity unit, improved natural lighting and proper illumination were advised to enhance safety and working conditions.
Once completed, the hospital will host a range of specialized services, including pediatric, surgical, and medical wards, alongside advanced maternal care and critical care units.
Dr. Demby emphasized that the new facility will complement not replace, the existing Moyamba Government Hospital, which is also slated for upgrades. The new site is expected to serve as a specialist referral center, particularly for obstetric, pediatric, and surgical care.
Beyond healthcare delivery, the minister pointed to the hospital’s potential to stimulate local economic growth, encouraging community leaders to support development around the facility. He also proposed tree-planting initiatives within the compound to promote environmental sustainability and community ownership.
Chief Foday Momoh Gulama welcomed the project, describing it as a transformative investment for Moyamba and surrounding communities.
“This hospital will greatly improve access to quality healthcare for our people,” he said, thanking the government and development partners for their support.
The project is funded through a concessional loan from the Islamic Development Bank, with officials assuring transparency and accountability in its implementation.
With construction expected to be completed by October or before the end of the year, the Moyamba hospital is poised to become a critical hub for specialized care reducing pressure on facilities in Freetown and bringing lifesaving services closer to those who need them most.
