By Abass Mahmoud Sillah Jr
Residents of Kenema witnessed a significant milestone in healthcare development as Austin Demby, Minister of Health, officially unveiled a state-of-the-art CT scan machine with 64-slice imaging capability at the Kenema Government Hospital. The event also featured the formal handover of newly procured Ministry of Health staff buses and utility vehicles to hospital management, marking a dual investment in both medical infrastructure and workforce support. In addition to the CT scanner, the Minister launched a modern 4D ultrasound machine, underscoring government efforts to strengthen diagnostic capacity and enhance the quality of care across the country.
Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Demby emphasized that the provision of staff buses is aimed at addressing longstanding transportation challenges faced by healthcare workers. He noted that improved mobility for staff will lead to more efficient service delivery, reduced delays, and ultimately better patient care. “The availability of reliable transportation for our health workers is critical to ensuring timely and effective healthcare services. This intervention will significantly ease their movement and enhance overall system performance,” he stated.
On the diagnostic front, the newly installed CT scan and ultrasound machines are expected to significantly improve the hospital’s ability to diagnose and manage complex medical conditions. According to the Minister, the equipment will not only serve residents of Kenema but will also benefit patients from surrounding communities and neighboring districts who rely on the facility for specialized care. “This investment is part of our broader commitment to strengthening the healthcare system and ensuring that quality diagnostic services are accessible to all Sierra Leoneans,” he added.
The development follows a similar initiative undertaken just a week earlier by President Julius Maada Bio, who commissioned 10 new staff buses for healthcare workers in Bo. Five of the buses are 50-seaters, while the remaining are 38-seaters. During the same event, the President also unveiled nine utility vehicles, a 128-slice CT scan machine, and a new ultra-modern burns unit at Connaught Hospital—developments widely seen as part of a broader national drive to transform healthcare service delivery.
Health sector stakeholders have welcomed these interventions, noting that improved diagnostic tools and better logistical support for medical personnel are critical steps toward building a more resilient and responsive healthcare system. With these latest additions, the government continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure, enhancing service delivery, and ensuring better health outcomes for citizens across Sierra Leone.
