By Mohamed Jaward Nyallay
Connaught Hospital, the country’s largest government-run medical facility and primary referral center, has reported an impressive year of transformation and improved service delivery in 2025.
A new management report highlights sweeping infrastructural development, technological enhancement, and a rise in public confidence in the hospital’s quality of care.
The 2025 Annual Report captures key milestones and outlines ongoing gaps for strategic support in the coming year. According to the report, “Key achievements included infrastructural upgrades, improved cleanliness and infection prevention practices, expansion of specialized clinical services, continued digitization efforts, and stronger partnerships with local and international stakeholders.”
As the teaching arm of the University of Sierra Leone’s medical program, Connaught Hospital underwent some of its most extensive renovations in decades. Major works included a complete renovation and re-equipping of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), significantly improving the hospital’s capacity to care for critically ill patients.
The construction of a modern Burns and Reconstructive Unit also marked a milestone, expanding access to specialized surgical and rehabilitative care.
Meanwhile, the Radiology Complex received a total overhaul and modernization. It is now equipped with a state-of-the-art 128-slice CT scanner, a 4D ultrasound machine with cardiac imaging capabilities, and a digital X-ray system — key advancements that have enhanced diagnostic accuracy and overall service delivery.
One of the most significant developments was the Ministry of Health’s successful installation of a 1.2 megawatt solar energy system, which now serves as the hospital’s main power source. This renewable energy shift has improved energy reliability, reduced operating costs, and strengthened service resilience.
Patient numbers also rose sharply in 2025, reflecting growing public trust in the hospital’s services — but also adding pressure on staff and facilities. Outpatient attendance exceeded 57,000, while admissions increased to 21,000, up from 19,000 in 2024. Theatres were busier as well, with 1,600 surgeries performed compared to 958 the previous year. Despite the higher patient load, the hospital recorded a decline in mortality rates, highlighting significant progress in care quality.
“Increased patient attendance reflected improved accessibility and growing public confidence in the services provided by Connaught Hospital. Although emergency services remained under pressure due to high demand, there were notable improvements in organization, coordination, and response times,” the report noted.
Connaught Hospital’s achievements mirror broader progress within Sierra Leone’s health sector, underscoring the government’s ongoing investments in infrastructure, personnel, and healthcare delivery nationwide
