By Joseph S. Conteh
Pikin Bizness, an organization dedicated to transforming the lives of children in Sierra Leone through health, education, and economic support, has stepped in to provide essential medical care for one-year-old Mariama Juldeh Jalloh. Mariama, who has a hole in her heart, will be leaving Freetown for France to undergo lifesaving surgery, thanks to the efforts of Pikin Bizness.
Dr. Adonis Abboud, the Executive Director of Pikin Bizness, mentioned that the organization has been helping seriously ill children for over a decade, successfully transforming the lives of many children in Sierra Leone. When Mariama’s family contacted Pikin Bizness when she was five months old, they were advised to wait until she was between eight and ten months old for the surgery due to her young age. The organization has a track record of successful surgeries, with many children going on to graduate and lead healthier lives.
Mariama’s mother, Saydiatu Barrie, expressed her gratitude for Pikin Bizness support, mentioning that Mariama had been frequently ill since birth, but the family was not aware of the heart condition. The family, who traveled from Kabala, found relief and hope in Pikin Bizness intervention, easing the stress they had been experiencing in recent months.
On the 10th of June, 2025, Mariama will travel to France with Pikin Bizness for her heart surgery, after which she will stay for two months for observation before returning to Freetown. The organization’s dedication to providing lifesaving support to children like Mariama highlights the impactful work they are doing in the community.
