By Amin Kef (Ranger)
In a groundbreaking medical initiative, Choithram Memorial Hospital, in partnership with the Bintumani Association, is set to provide free pediatric surgeries and treatments for children in Sierra Leone. A team of highly skilled German surgeons will carry out the procedures from March 21 to April 4, 2025, aiming to bring relief to children under 15 suffering from various medical conditions.
This initiative 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. The medical team includes:
- Dr. Morley Wright – Specialist Pediatrician
- Dr. Ibrahim Al Naieb – Pediatric Surgeon
- Dr. Tilman Gresing – Pediatrician
- Dr. (Mrs.) Kathrin Ruesse – Anesthetist
- Mrs. Anka Drebes – Nurse Anesthetist
- Mrs. Madeleine Martin
Assisting the German team will be Choithram Hospital’s medical professionals, including Dr. Muctarr Jalloh, Head of the Pediatric Department, Dr. Mamadu Barrie, Surgical Resident and Dr. Aruna Maada Jabbi, Pediatric Resident.
Choithram Memorial Hospital’s Management highlighted 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 high-quality medical care, particularly for children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In an exclusive interview, Dr. Gowrinath M. George, Medical Superintendent of Choithram Memorial Hospital, disclosed that screening for patients under 15 will take place at various centers. A final list will be compiled for evaluation and selected patients will be referred to Choithram Memorial Hospital on Hill Station in Freetown, where they will receive free surgical procedures.
Dr. Gowrinath M. George further clarified the scope of conditions eligible for treatment. While procedures for hydrocephalus, myelomeningoceles, incomplete backbone closure, clubfoot, esophageal stricture and cleft lip and palate will not be included, the medical team will focus on treatable pediatric conditions to enhance the well-being of many children.
Registration for the free surgeries commenced on February 24, 2025. Interested families can contact the hospital via phone at +232 76541331 or visit Choithram Memorial Hospital from Monday to Friday for further information.
Harish Agnani, Chief Administrator of the Choithram Group, reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to providing quality healthcare services for all Sierra Leoneans. He emphasized that the free pediatric surgical camp aligns with the hospital’s mission to ensure that critical healthcare reaches children in need.
The initiative has also garnered strong support from Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Germany, H.E. Dr. M. L. Baryoh, who has played a key role in connecting the Bintumani Association’s German pediatric team with Choithram Memorial Hospital.
Dr. Gowrinath M. George expressed his gratitude for Ambassador Baryoh’s contributions, stating, “Had it not been for the dedication and commitment of Dr. M. L. Baryoh this camp would not have been possible. His unwavering support in facilitating discussions and bringing all parties on board has made this initiative a reality.”
This free pediatric surgery program underscores the commitment of Choithram Memorial Hospital and the Bintumani Association to improving pediatric healthcare in Sierra Leone. By offering life-changing medical interventions, the initiative is poised to make a lasting impact on countless families across the nation.
