By Ibrahim Kabba Turay
In a significant move for Sierra Leone’s healthcare sector, the Ministry of Health and Sanitation,has announced its preparations to host the 64th Annual General Meeting and Scientific Conference of the West Africa College of Surgeons.
The announcement was made during a press briefing held at Youyi Building in Freetown yesterday.
Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Clinical Services at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the longstanding presence of the West Africa College of Surgeons, operating across Francophone and Anglophone countries in the region for over sixty years.
The conference aims to foster scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing among over 500 surgeons expected to attend from various West African nations.
The event, scheduled to take place from March 3rd to 7th, 2024, at the Bintumani Conference Centre, will mark the first time Sierra Leone will host such a large gathering of highly skilled surgeons.
Dr. Kabba emphasised that the move demonstrates the country’s growing reputation in the health sector and will contribute to local training in surgery and- access to specialised care.
Dr. Kabba also underscored the economic and tourism benefits hosting the conference, stating that the influx of attendees will boost the economy and provide opportunities for showcasing Sierra Leonean research achievements.
Dr. Abdulai Jalloh, Chair of the Scientific Committee, outlined the pre-conference activities, including a surgical outreach program offering specialised surgeries free of charge to Sierra Leoneans in various locations across the country.
The surgeries, including laparoscopic procedures, aim to address healthcare needs in underserve areas.
The conference is expected to gather not only seasoned surgeons but all young doctors and medical expert interested in fields such a anesthesia, radiology, an gynecology, providing them with valuable scientific knowledge are networking opportunities.
Dr. Kabba expressed gratitude organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO TNFPA for the
