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On Tuesday, August 13, 2024, the Sierra Leone Police (SLP) marked a significant milestone with the unveiling of a state-of-the-art medical health facility in Mattru Jong, designed specifically for police personnel and their dependents.
The establishment of this health centre is emblematic of Inspector General (IGP) Sellu’s vision to enhance the healthcare and well-being of police officers nationwide. This symbolic inauguration aligns with the recent construction of a modern police station in Mattru Jong, anticipating an influx of personnel in the division. The initiative aims to address the chronic medical challenges faced by officers in the area.
IGP Sellu’s commitment to the health of officers underscores the notion that when personnel are physically fit, they are better equipped to fulfill their duties effectively.
Deputy Director and Medical Superintendent, Dr. John M Konteh, presented the medical equipment during the ceremony. He highlighted the significant advancements in medical initiatives under IGP Sellu’s leadership. These include collaborations with Spanish medical teams that have conducted free surgical operations for over 500 police personnel and their families, as well as a nationwide campaign offering free hepatitis testing for officers, which recently concluded in Freetown and will soon extend to the provinces.
Dr. Konteh confirmed that the health centre will be staffed by a qualified Community Health Officer (CHO), trained nurses, and a Community Health Assistant (CHA) to ensure effective service delivery. A dedicated department for infectious diseases, including HIV/AIDS and Tuberculosis, will maintain confidentiality and provide necessary treatment for affected personnel. Plans are also in place to establish maternal and pediatric departments to address related health concerns.
He emphasized that all necessary laboratory equipment has been provided, along with a trained laboratory technician to conduct tests prior to treatment.
Deputy Superintendent of Police Mr. Mahmoud T.S. Konneh, also the Administrative Officer of Police Kingtom Hospital, elaborated on the health centre’s purpose, highlighting its role in improving healthcare accessibility for police officers in the region.
Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Mr. Augustine Kabia, the Local Unit Commander for the Bonthe division, expressed his satisfaction with this important development during his tenure, noting that the health centre reflects the progress being made under his leadership.
The unveiling ceremony drew a crowd of key stakeholders, including District Medical Officer Dr. Brima Bobson Sesay and Bonthe District Council Chairperson Madam Isiatu Conteh, both of whom commended the police leadership for their commitment to enhancing the health and welfare of officers. Dr. Sesay praised the initiative as timely and pledged ongoing support, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, transparency, and accountability in the facility’s operations.
Concluding the event, Lamin Moiwo, head of the medical laboratory at Kingtom Hospital, shared insights into the advanced medical equipment that will be available at the health centre, including microscopes, centrifuge machines, hemoglobin meters, pipettes, sharps boxes, personal protective equipment (PPE), gloves, and medications.
Police Constable 17466 Abdulai Conteh, a Community Health Officer (CHO), was introduced as the officer in charge of the facility. Plans are underway to deploy additional medical personnel to support the centre’s operations, ensuring comprehensive healthcare services for police officers in the region.
