Kenema DMO Outlines Plans to Integrate MSF Hospital into Government Health System

The District Medical Officer (DMO) of Kenema, Dr. Donald Samuel Grant, has provided updates on the ongoing process to integrate the Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Maternity and Pediatric Hospital at Hangha into the Government healthcare system, under the oversight of the District Health Management Team (DHMT).

Dr. Grant said there have been several engagements between the Ministry of Health, community stakeholders, health partners, staff of the Kenema Government Hospital (KGH), and MSF representatives. He confirmed that the most recent meeting was a high-level session with the Resident Minister, District Council Chairperson, Senior District Officer (SDO), Paramount Chiefs, the Mayor, and other local leaders to discuss the transition and eventual handover of the MSF facility to government management.

He emphasized that media engagement remains a priority, and that the DHMT, in collaboration with partners, will continue to update the public through the press.

Dr. Grant highlighted ongoing discussions with Ministry leadership regarding the duty shift system, noting that both two-shift and three-shift models are being reviewed to ensure sustainability and efficient use of human resources. He said communication on these changes will be clear and consistent, utilizing all available public information platforms.

Regarding staff transportation, Dr. Grant revealed that a new bus has been secured for healthcare workers. Following consultations, nurses have agreed to contribute Le10 per day per person toward fuel and maintenance a practical step toward self-sustaining logistics after the initial one-month transportation support lapses.

Dr. Grant stressed the importance of maintaining the high standards left by MSF. He noted that relocating the maternity and later pediatric units to the Hangha facility will free up space at the Kenema Government Hospital for future developments, including intensive care and dialysis units.

“With the modern equipment at Hangha, the DHMT is committed to ensuring the hospital continues to deliver high-quality maternal and pediatric care,” he said, adding, “Kenema is close to my heart, and with the support of all stakeholders, we want to leave a legacy of good healthcare here.”

He called on medical professionals to embrace the transition, drawing parallels with successful government takeovers of the Cottage and Children’s Hospitals

A local female civil society activist welcomed the transition, saying, “The initiative to maintain the MSF Centre is commendable. However, our concern is whether the government can fully fund and sustain the facility.”

She recommended that the Centre evolve into a fully-fledged hospital with specialist doctors, trained nurses, and a dedicated government budget. She also emphasized the role of media in ensuring transparency and regular public updates.

Dr. Grant confirmed that MSF has committed to training doctors and nurses to strengthen local capacity for the transition.

Dr. Grant concluded by appealing to the media, healthcare workers, and the public to work together for the success of the integration.

“With unity, commitment, and clear communication, we can overcome these challenges and build a resilient health system for Kenema,” he said.