Responding to the pressing challenge posed by the lack of power supply affecting public health facilities nationwide, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation has issued a comprehensive press release.

This follows the tragic incident at the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH), where a baby lost its life due to the power outage.

The press release outlines the following key points:

The Ministry of Health acknowledges the current electricity challenges faced by hospitals across Sierra Leone, emphasizing the detrimental impact on healthcare delivery.

Efforts have been made over the past year, with support from partners, to address the power outages by transitioning to reliable and environmentally friendly solar alternatives. Solar power plants have been installed in major government hospitals, with plans for further installations across the country.

Urgent discussions are underway with the Ministry of Energy to prioritize energy supply to major government hospitals through dedicated power lines. Additionally, robust resource mobilization efforts are being made to complete solar power plant installations in all public health facilities.

Proper operational mechanisms are being established to ensure the efficient use of solar power in hospitals for quality healthcare service delivery.

For PCMH, engagements between solar experts and hospital leadership are being facilitated to maximize solar power coverage during outages. Backup generator and fuel supply are also being ensured.

The Ministry has been proactive in addressing leadership challenges at PCMH, including the official appointment of Dr. Amadu Sesay as Medical Superintendent.

The Ministry expresses sincere condolences to families who have lost loved ones and appreciates the dedication of healthcare workers across the country.

The Ministry reaffirms its commitment to collaborate with all stakeholders to ensure access to quality healthcare for all Sierra Leoneans, despite the challenges faced by the health sector.