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National Petroleum (NP) Limited Sierra Leone and LeoneOil Marketing Company have donated a modern burns unit, and a reconstructive centre to Connaught Government Hospital, marking a major step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare system.
The facilities were officially commissioned on Thursday, March 2, 2026, by President Julius Maada Bio, who described the development as part of his government’s commitment to building a people-centered healthcare system.
The newly installed equipment includes what officials described as Sierra Leone’s first publicly owned advanced CT scanners, alongside a fully equipped burns unit designed to improve the country’s ability to diagnose and treat complex medical conditions.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, President Bio commended healthcare workers and development partners for their contributions and called for professionalism in the use and maintenance of the new facilities.
He emphasized that national development depends on the health of citizens and reiterated his administration’s focus on human capital development. He also urged both citizens and medical staff to safeguard the infrastructure to ensure long-term benefits.
The Senior Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Andrew Sorie, said the president’s leadership and international partnerships have driven progress in the health sector. He described the initiative as part of broader reforms aimed at improving service delivery.
Welcoming the president, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, Dr. I.M. Kapuwa, expressed appreciation for continued government investment in the facility, noting that the addition of advanced diagnostic tools reflects a commitment to improving patient care.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Musa Kabba said the project was partly influenced by lessons learned from the Wellington fuel tanker explosion, which exposed weaknesses in emergency response systems. He said the new burns unit represents a move toward better preparedness in handling emergencies.
Representing the donating companies, NP/LeoneOil CEO Mr. Cole said the initiative demonstrates the impact of collaboration between the public and private sectors. He added that the burns unit offers renewed hope for improved treatment of patients suffering from severe injuries.
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby described the commissioning as a historic milestone in enhancing diagnostic capacity and emergency care in the country. He said the equipment will significantly improve service delivery and patient outcomes.
The donation and commissioning notably reflects ongoing efforts by the government and its partners to expand healthcare infrastructure, strengthen emergency response, and build a more resilient health system in Sierra Leone.
