On March 24th, 2024, tensions rose in the Fodaya community and neighboring areas, located approximately 50km from the Guinea border, as residents expressed grievances regarding the management of the Fodaya Maternal and Child Health Post (MCHP). Mrs. Memunatu A. Kamara, the in-charge of the facility, found herself at the center of controversy. Accusations against her included favoritism towards Guinean citizens seeking medical attention and alleged mismanagement of a borehole water facility funded by the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office.

Mr. Thaimu L. Kamara, the Village Development Committee (VDC) chairman, spearheaded the community’s efforts to address these concerns. He conveyed community dissatisfaction with Mrs. Kamara’s conduct, citing her purported failure to heed community voices despite personal interactions.

However, confusion ensued as the chiefdom speaker for Dixon Chiefdom claimed unawareness of the community’s actions until late in the process. He acknowledged being informed belatedly and underscored his role as a liaison with the District Health Management Team, representing the paramount chief’s interests.

In response, Mr. Sheku Samba, the District Human Resources Officer, acknowledged the community’s grievances and clarified Sierra Leone’s obligations under a memorandum of understanding with Guinea. He emphasized equal access to healthcare for both Sierra Leonean and Guinean nationals. Moreover, he urged increased community engagement in national health initiatives, such as malaria campaigns and immunizations.

Representatives from civil society organizations in Kambia, including Mr. Mohamed Salieu Jalloh, echoed the importance of community involvement. They viewed the issue as resolvable at the community level, urging stakeholders to collaborate with Mrs. Kamara while respecting her role.

Similarly, Mr. Hassan Bangura, Chairman for the Community Health Officers (CHOs) in Kambia, stressed community participation in health programs and encouraged collaboration between local leaders, residents, and health authorities. He pledged support in facilitating dialogue with the paramount chief and reporting concerns to the District Medical Officer.

The overarching sentiment among stakeholders was the need for constructive dialogue and collaboration to address grievances and enhance community participation in healthcare initiatives.

As tensions simmered in Fodaya, the spotlight turned to finding a resolution that balances community concerns with healthcare access for all residents. The outcome remains uncertain, pending further dialogue and action from relevant authorities.

In the meantime, Mrs. Kamara’s future at the Fodaya MCHP hangs in the balance, awaiting clarity on the allegations against her and the community’s expectations moving forward.

The unfolding situation underscores the complexities of managing healthcare facilities in remote communities and the importance of effective communication, community engagement, and accountability in addressing challenges and fostering trust between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.