By Amin Kef (Ranger)
A trailblazing medical initiative is underway as Choithram Memorial Hospital, in collaboration with the Bintumani Association, opens registration for a free pediatric surgical program that promises to transform the lives of children across Sierra Leone. With a team of highly skilled German surgeons set to perform critical procedures from March 21 to April 4, 2025, this initiative provides a rare and invaluable opportunity for families to access life-changing medical care for children under 15 suffering from various conditions.
The program will focus on treating conditions such as neck fistulas and cysts, soft tissue tumors, sequelae of thermal injuries, malformations of the urogenital and gastrointestinal tract, hernias, hypospadias, undescended testes, abdominal wall deformities and minor contractures. Spearheading this medical mission is an experienced team of specialists, including pediatricians, surgeons, anesthetists and nursing professionals from Germany, working alongside medical experts from Choithram Memorial Hospital to deliver the highest standard of care.
Choithram Memorial Hospital’s Management has emphasized the significance of this initiative, highlighting that these German pediatric surgeons have been conducting similar medical missions in Sierra Leone since 2010. This year’s program aims to expand access to critical healthcare, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds who may not have the means to afford specialized medical treatment. With registration already in progress, families are urged to act swiftly to secure a spot for their children in this life-changing program.
Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, has outlined the registration process, explaining that screenings are being conducted at various centers to identify eligible patients. A final list will be compiled and selected children will be referred to Choithram Memorial Hospital in Freetown, where they will receive free surgical procedures. He has further clarified that while the program covers a wide range of treatable pediatric conditions, surgeries for hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, incomplete backbone closure, clubfoot, esophageal stricture and cleft lip and palate will not be included in this year’s camp.
With registration officially open since February 24, 2025, families are encouraged to take immediate action. Interested parents and guardians can contact the hospital at +232 76541331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital from Monday to Friday to receive further details on the screening and selection process. The urgency to register cannot be overstated, as demand for this rare opportunity is expected to be high and only a limited number of children can be accommodated.
Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, has reaffirmed the hospital’s unwavering commitment to providing quality healthcare to all Sierra Leoneans. He has emphasized that this free pediatric surgical camp aligns with Choithram’s mission to ensure that children in need receive the medical attention they deserve.
The initiative has also received significant support from Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, whose instrumental role in facilitating discussions and connecting the Bintumani Association’s German pediatric team with Choithram Memorial Hospital has been pivotal in making this program a reality. Dr. Gowrinath M. George has expressed deep gratitude for Ambassador Baryoh’s contributions, acknowledging his relentless efforts in ensuring that this initiative reaches those who need it most.
With registration already ongoing and the window of opportunity closing fast, families must seize this chance to provide their children with the medical care that could change their lives forever. This free pediatric surgical program stands as a testament to the dedication of Choithram Memorial Hospital and the Bintumani Association in improving healthcare in Sierra Leone. By extending a helping hand to children in need, the initiative is set to leave an enduring impact on countless families, offering them renewed hope and a healthier future.
