By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a cutting-edge initiative to expand healthcare accessibility, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and international medical organizations, has launched two transformative programs aimed at addressing preventable blindness and providing life-changing pediatric surgeries. These initiatives reaffirm the hospital’s commitment to equitable healthcare and position it at the forefront of medical outreach in Sierra Leone.
Shortly after the nationwide Cataract Surgery Outreach Program, which began on March 10, 2025, a free cataract camp commenced on Saturday 15th March, 2025 and will end on the 15th July, 2025. The program will deliver free cataract surgeries and advanced ophthalmic care to thousands of visually impaired individuals.
Before commencement in order to enhance accessibility, the country was divided into four operational zones, with screenings taking place in district hospitals. The program is backed by global health organizations, including Choithram Netralaya in India, Noor Dubai under the Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives and the Choithram International Foundation, ensuring world-class eye care at no cost to beneficiaries.
With a target of restoring sight to 2,000 individuals, the program incorporates both traditional cataract extraction and the advanced Phacoemulsification technique. The program is overseen by the National Eye Health Program Manager to maintain global best practices. A structured three-stage screening process has been implemented, starting with initial assessments by District Eye Health specialists, followed by remote evaluations via telemedicine conducted by ophthalmologists at Choithram Memorial Hospital. Candidates of the final selections will continue to be transported to Freetown for expert-led procedures.
To remove logistical barriers, Choithram Memorial Hospital is covering transportation, accommodation and daily allowances for all surgical candidates during their three-day stay. Post-operative care will be seamlessly integrated into district hospital services, with free medications provided to ensure full recovery. Additionally, the program is set to enhance the country’s medical expertise by training local healthcare professionals in advanced ophthalmic procedures. The acquisition of state-of-the-art surgical equipment, including high-precision operating microscopes and Phacoemulsification machines, will further elevate the quality of eye care in Sierra Leone.
Simultaneously, the hospital has partnered with the Bintumani Association to offer free pediatric surgeries from March 21 to April 4, 2025, benefiting children under fifteen suffering from treatable conditions. A team of expert German surgeons will conduct specialized procedures for ailments such as neck fistulas, cysts, soft tissue tumors, hernias, undescended testes and congenital urogenital and gastrointestinal abnormalities. With all expenses covered, this initiative provides a crucial lifeline for families unable to afford essential medical care.
Registration for pediatric surgeries began on February 24, 2025 and has seen overwhelming participation from parents and guardians. Screening processes are currently underway at designated centers, with eligible cases referred for surgery at Choithram Memorial Hospital. However, conditions such as hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, clubfoot and cleft lip and palate will not be included in this year’s program.
A key contributor to the success of this initiative is Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, whose efforts in facilitating the partnership with the German medical team have been instrumental.
Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, reaffirmed the hospital’s unwavering commitment to making quality healthcare accessible for all. He emphasized that these programs represent a significant step in bridging the gap for underserved communities, ensuring that medical care reaches those who need it most.
With limited spaces available, families are urged to act swiftly to secure participation. These pioneering initiatives stand as a testament to the power of strategic collaboration and humanitarian healthcare, marking a new chapter in Sierra Leone’s journey toward accessible and transformative medical services.
