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The rehabilitated Maternity and Fistula Wards at the Makeni Regional Hospital were officially handed over on Tuesday, 13th May 2026, through the support of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Embassy of Iceland.
The ceremony brought together health officials, hospital management, development partners, and other stakeholders committed to strengthening maternal and reproductive healthcare services in Sierra Leone.
The rehabilitation project is expected to significantly improve access to quality maternal healthcare for women and fistula patients in Bombali District and surrounding communities, while contributing to national efforts aimed at reducing maternal mortality and improving reproductive health outcomes.
Speaking during the ceremony, the Medical Superintendent of Makeni Regional Hospital, Dr Joseph Kamanda Sesay, expressed appreciation to the Government of Iceland and UNFPA for their continued support in strengthening maternal healthcare services. He disclosed that the hospital recorded 4,319 maternity deliveries in 2025 and currently serves a population of over 527,000 people across Bombali District and surrounding communities. Dr Sesay noted that the rehabilitated wards will enhance healthcare delivery by improving patient care, dignity, and treatment outcomes for women and fistula patients.
The District Medical Officer of Bombali District also commended the partnership, noting that Makeni Regional Hospital records the second-highest number of maternity and caesarean section deliveries in Sierra Leone, after the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the facility to ensure sustainable healthcare delivery for mothers and newborns.
Representatives from UNFPA and the Embassy of Iceland reaffirmed their commitment to supporting maternal and reproductive healthcare services in Sierra Leone. The UNFPA representative praised the dedication of healthcare workers at Makeni Regional Hospital and disclosed that UNFPA currently supports more than 15 health facilities nationwide through interventions aimed at reducing obstetric fistula and strengthening health systems.
Representing the Embassy of Iceland, the Head of Mission stated that gender equality remains a key development priority for Iceland. She noted that the rehabilitation project is intended to improve the lives of women affected by obstetric fistula and other maternal complications, while restoring dignity and expanding access to quality healthcare services.
