The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex

04/12/2025

28/11/2025

SLARD Presents Award of Appreciation to the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex

The Sierra Leone Association of Resident Doctors (SLARD) this afternoon paid a courtesy visit to the leadership of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC), where they presented an Award of Appreciation in recognition of the exceptional support and enabling environment the Complex continues to provide for resident doctors across the country.

Speaking during the presentation, the representative of SLARD highlighted the crucial role USLTHC plays in ensuring that resident doctors thrive, excel in their examinations, and grow professionally. She noted that the structures, mentorship, and opportunities provided by the Complex have significantly strengthened postgraduate medical training in Sierra Leone.

Receiving the award on behalf of the Complex, the Chairperson of the USLTHC Board of Administration expressed profound gratitude to the resident doctors for their thoughtful gesture. She commended them for their hard work and dedication to service, adding that the partnership between USLTHC and resident doctors remains essential to advancing healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone.

In her remarks, she further encouraged resident doctors to continue striving for excellence—not only in their academic and clinical performance, but also in their professional conduct, attitude to work, patient care, and respect for institutional leadership. She emphasized that sustained progress in the medical sector depends on a blend of competence, commitment, and character.

“These strides we are making must not be momentary,” she noted. “They should outlive us and stand strong from generation to generation. This requires professionalism at every level.”

The Chief Medical Director of USLTHC joined in commending SLARD for the recognition and reaffirmed the Complex’s commitment to strengthening medical education, postgraduate training, and high-quality patient care in Sierra Leone.

USLTHC remains dedicated to fostering an environment where the next generation of medical professionals can build a strong foundation for excellence, innovation, and ethical practice.

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©️USLTHC Communications & Media

14/11/2025

Feature Story: Prof. Babatunde Duduyemi’s Global Awards and their Impact on USLTHC

The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex continues to gain international visibility through the outstanding work of its staff. Among those leading this positive recognition is Prof. Babatunde Duduyemi, Consultant Pathologist, Professor of Pathology, and Head of the Pathology Department at USLTHC. His recent series of awards from respected global institutions has drawn significant attention to the quality of work happening within the department and the broader institution.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, Prof. Duduyemi expressed gratitude for the numerous international bodies that have honoured his contributions to pathology. He explained that his professional engagement with organisations abroad has grown over the years, leading to recognitions that reflect both his personal commitment and the collective achievements of the department.

He highlighted the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP), where he serves as one of the African Ambassadors and International Fellow. Through this relationship, the department benefited from the donation of a modern tissue processor valued at about 60,000 US dollars. The machine has been tested and confirmed to be in good working condition and will soon be fully operational once the necessary reagents and consumables are secured.

Prof. Duduyemi also spoke about receiving the Global Pathology Education Award and International Fellowship from the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the highest pathology body in the United States. He noted that he is the first in Sierra Leone to receive such recognition. Each time the College sends out communication acknowledging the award, the name of USLTHC is included, giving visibility to the institution on a global stage.

He further discussed his fellowship with the International Association for Surgeons, Gastroenterologists and Oncologists, explaining that recognition of this kind is based on his publications, international engagements, and contributions to pathology education. These awards have opened doors for him to represent Sierra Leone and USLTHC across continents. He has been invited to deliver talks, participate in conferences, and meet leading professionals in the field.

Beyond awards, Prof. Duduyemi emphasised the significant increase in research activity at the pathology department. At the moment, the department hosts about five ongoing research projects, many of which supply consumables and reagents that support day-to-day laboratory operations. This year alone, about 65 percent of the materials used in the department have come from these research collaborations, reducing the burden on the hospital’s resources. He noted that this is one of the times such external research support has directly improved the work of the department.

He also highlighted the impact of the African Cancer Star initiative, which he helped establish. The program trains individuals in research methods, proposal writing, and independent investigation. Three emerging researchers were admitted to the program, and two received sponsorship to attend the African Organization for Research in Cancer (AORTIC) conference in Tunisia. Several younger colleagues have since gained their first publications and research experience under his mentorship. Prof. Duduyemi explained that he continues to mentor undergraduate students, postgraduate trainees, and early-career faculty across the institution.

When asked how these international engagements translate into service delivery for patients, Prof. Duduyemi pointed to the collaborative study currently ongoing with the University of Miami. This project has supplied the pathology department with essential reagents and consumables for the first half of the year, enabling uninterrupted laboratory services. He explained that one of the chronic challenges faced by the department is inconsistent supply of essential materials. These collaborations help bridge that gap and ensure continuous service delivery.

Prof. Duduyemi reflected that his work is not for personal recognition but for strengthening the institution he serves. He noted that today, mentioning the Department of Pathology at USLTHC anywhere in the global pathology community immediately draws interest, as the department is becoming known for its growing research output, international collaborations, and academic excellence.

Through his awards, partnerships, and mentorship, Prof. Duduyemi continues to raise the profile of USLTHC and contribute to building a stronger, research-driven health system for Sierra Leone.

©️USLTHC Media and Communications

12/11/2025

A successful Board of Administration meeting held!

12/11/2025

USLTHC Board of Administration holds its final bi-monthly meeting today for 2025!
Stay tuned……..

06/11/2025

05/11/2025

USLTHC Radiology Department Advances Breast Cancer Diagnosis through Specialized Training

The Radiology Department of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC) in collaboration with the Well Woman Clinic (WWC), Freetown, has launched a six-week online training course in Breast Ultrasonography, in collaboration with the Humanitarian Radiology Development Corps (HRD), USA, Curing Women’s Cancer (CWC), USA.

This program which started today, marks a major step in strengthening Sierra Leone’s capacity for early detection and accurate diagnosis of breast diseases, including cancer, which remains a growing public health concern. The course brings together distinguished lecturers from leading global institutions such as Johns Hopkins University, Yale University, SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, USA.

Over the six weeks, participants will gain advanced knowledge in key areas including breast anatomy, imaging optimization, benign and malignant lesions, BI-RADS reporting, and ultrasound-guided procedures. The sessions, hosted every Wednesday, will combine equip radiologists and clinicians with the latest diagnostic skills and techniques.

This training directly supports the USLTHC’s threefold mandate of training, research, and service delivery. It builds the expertise of healthcare professionals, encourages evidence-based medical practice, and ultimately improves diagnostic services for women across Sierra Leone.

Through this initiative, the Radiology Department under the leadership of Dr. med. Ann-Marie Jah-Kabba and the Well Woman Clinic lead by Mrs. Jennifer Renner-Thomas continue to demonstrate leadership in advancing healthcare education and fostering national and international collaborations to improve patient outcomes.

USLTHC remains committed to developing world-class specialists, expanding research capacity, and delivering high-quality health services to the people of Sierra Leone.

Media

04/11/2025

USLTHC Celebrates Landmark Achievements at the West African College of Physicians Graduation in Dakar, Senegal

The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospital Complex (USLTHC) has once again demonstrated its leadership in medical education, research, and service excellence as six of its doctors achieved regional recognition at the West African College of Physicians (WACP) graduation ceremony held from 27–29 October 2025 in Dakar, Senegal.

This year’s graduation marks a moment of pride and transformation for Sierra Leone’s medical landscape. Five doctors from USLTHC were inducted as Members of the College, and one as a Fellow each representing years of dedication, sacrifice, and pursuit of excellence.

The new Members are:
Dr Haja Abibatu Jalloh, Member, Psychiatry – the first female specialist psychiatrist in Sierra Leone, a historic milestone for the nation’s mental health sector.

Dr Darlinda Fatmata Jiba, Member, Internal Medicine

Dr Musa Salieu Kamara, Member, Internal Medicine

Dr Mariama P. Turay, Member, Paediatrics

Dr Michael J. Koroma, Member, Paediatrics

Dr Sorie Conteh earned elevation to Fellow of the West African College of Physicians, joining the distinguished ranks of senior consultants across the sub-region. His remarkable performance was recognized with three major awards: the A. C. Ikeme Prize, the Austin Obasohan Prize, and the Theophilus Oladipo Ogunlesi Prize, a rare feat reflecting his exceptional academic and clinical contributions.

These achievements embody the steady progress USLTHC has made in postgraduate training, capacity building, and professional excellence. The institution’s structured training programs continue to produce skilled specialists who are transforming healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone through advanced knowledge, innovation, and research-driven practice.

USLTHC’s growing list of specialists demonstrates the success of its threefold mandate, training, research, and service. By empowering doctors to attain regional certification, the hospital ensures that patients across Sierra Leone have access to high-quality care rooted in local expertise. Each new specialist strengthens the healthcare system, reduces dependence on external consultants, and inspires younger medical professionals to pursue postgraduate specialization.

This milestone was supported by the tireless mentorship of dedicated trainers who continue to nurture excellence within the system. Those who attended the Dakar ceremony include Dr Ronita Luke (Paediatrics), Dr George Eze (Psychiatry and Head of Department, USLTHC), Dr Melvina Thompson (Family Medicine), Prof. James Russell (Internal Medicine), and Dr Momodu Sesay (Community Health).

The USLTHC acknowledges that these trainers represent only a part of a larger network of educators and mentors who have continuously supported postgraduate training across the institution. Their collective effort reflects a strong commitment to building a self-sustaining ecosystem of medical education and clinical advancement in Sierra Leone.

With every new member and fellow, USLTHC moves closer to its vision of becoming a center of excellence in medical education and specialist service for Sierra Leone and the West African subregion. This progress ensures not only improved patient care but also home-grown solutions to the country’s evolving health challenges through evidence-based practice and collaborative research.

The Board of Administration of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospital Complex extends heartfelt congratulations to the newly admitted Members and Fellows, appreciation to the trainers and mentors who made this possible, and gratitude to the West African College of Physicians for its continued partnership in strengthening postgraduate medical education in the region.


Knowledge
Capacity
Lives.

For further information, contact:
Media and Communications office
University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospital Complex (USLTHC)

30/10/2025

Connaught Hospital Reopens Ultra-Modern Mortuary - A Landmark in Dignified Healthcare and Training Excellence

Freetown, Sierra Leone – October 30, 2025

Connaught Hospital, the main facility of USLTHC, has officially reopened the newly renovated Mortuary, marking a new era of dignity, efficiency, and professionalism in the management of the deceased within the country’s leading teaching hospital.

For the past three months, the Connaught Mortuary underwent a complete transformation from a space once described as overcrowded and under-equipped into a state-of-the-art facility now built to meet international standards. The reopening ceremony, held at the Connaught Hospital premises, attracted key stakeholders including officials from the Ministry of Health, management and staff of Connaught Hospital, partners, and the media.

Restoring Dignity Through Leadership and Collaboration

Speaking during the ceremony, Dr. Ibrahim Kapuwa, Hospital Care Manager at Connaught Hospital, highlighted the significance of the project, describing the former state of the mortuary as “a place of despair.” He noted that prior to the renovation, the facility faced challenges of overcrowding and outdated equipment.

“Today, what we have is a facility built to global standards, one that ensures one co**se per compartment and promotes the dignity of every life, even in death,” Dr. Kapuwa stated. “It took leadership, commitment, and collaboration to bring this vision to reality, and we are proud that Connaught now stands as a model mortuary facility in the subregion.”

He further emphasized that the upgraded mortuary will serve not only as a service facility but also as a teaching and training center for medical students, pathologists, and other healthcare professionals, reinforcing Connaught’s role as the country’s premier teaching hospital.

Minister of Health Commends Transformation at Connaught

Delivering the keynote address, the Minister of Health and Sanitation, Dr. Austin Demby, applauded the transformation at Connaught Hospital, describing it as a reflection of the government’s vision to strengthen healthcare delivery across Sierra Leone.

“Five years ago, Connaught was in a state of disrepair, a facility that mirrored the broader challenges of our health system,” Dr. Demby remarked. “But today, Connaught has changed beyond recognition. From the paint on the walls - now blue and white, to the establishment of new specialized facilities such as the State-of-the-Art Burns Unit, the Oxygen Plant, and the 120-slice CT Scan Unit, the transformation is undeniable.”

He further noted that the mortuary’s upgrade demonstrates the government’s commitment to providing infrastructure that meets modern standards. The Minister admonished staff to maintain the facility with responsibility and professionalism, adding that efforts are underway to replicate similar developments in other regions of the country.

Dr. Demby also highlighted the availability of reliable energy solutions at Connaught, including a 100 KVA level solar power systems, ensuring 24-hour uninterrupted service despite fluctuations in the national power supply.

Restoring Humanity Beyond Infrastructure

In his statement, Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer at the Ministry of Health, commended the staff and management for their perseverance through difficult years. “It was challenging and difficult,” he said. “But today, we are not just celebrating a building or new equipment, we are celebrating the restoration of humanity. This facility restores dignity, both for the deceased and for the families they leave behind.”

Dr. Kabba added humorously, “Anybody wouldn’t regret dying now,” underscoring how far the mortuary has come from its previous condition.

Enhanced Training and Prospects for Accreditation

During a guided tour of the facility, Professor Duduyemi, Head of the Department of Pathology at USLTHC, expressed optimism that the upgraded mortuary could pave the way for international, regional and national accreditation. “This facility will enhance training, improve our residency programs, and strengthen the overall quality of pathology and forensic practice in Sierra Leone,” he said.

A Symbol of Progress

The reopening of the Connaught Mortuary stands as a testament to the collective effort of the Ministry of Health, Connaught management, development partners, and dedicated staff who continue to champion healthcare transformation in Sierra Leone.

Through this milestone, the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex reaffirms its commitment to providing quality, compassionate, and dignified healthcare for the living and the departed alike.



USLTHC Media

30/10/2025

🕊️ A New Dawn at Connaught Hospital

After months of careful renovation and modernization, the Connaught Mortuary, one of the key facilities under the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC), is set to reopen today.

What has long served as a vital part of our healthcare system has now been transformed into an ultra-modern facility, designed to uphold dignity, efficiency, and compassion in the management of the deceased.

Stay tuned for more updates as we mark this important milestone in improving healthcare infrastructure and service delivery at Connaught Hospital.

28/10/2025

USLTHC Participates in Breast Cancer Women’s Circle Talks Organized by Cancer UK-Salone

The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC) joined other key health institutions and organizations at the Breast Cancer Women’s Circle Talks organized by Cancer UK-Salone under the theme: “Accelerate Action in Breast Cancer Care.”

The event’s Keynote Speaker emphasized that breast health is often a neglected topic in many communities, noting that “prevention begins with knowledge.” Participants were encouraged to maintain healthy lifestyles, watch their diet, and prioritize regular health checkups.

Dr. Len Gordon Harris, Board Member of USLTHC and Consultant Radiologist, underscored the importance of regular breast examinations, mammograms, and frequent consultations with healthcare professionals, while calling on government and partners to strengthen national cancer prevention and treatment efforts.

In his remarks, Professor Duduyemi, Consultant Pathologist and Head of the Pathology Department at USLTHC, stressed the need for improved diagnostic equipment and laboratory capacity, noting that specimens removed during surgery should never be discarded as they are crucial for proper diagnosis and saving lives.

The Chief Nursing Officer, also a member of the USLTHC Board of Administration, highlighted the critical role of nurses in cancer care, advocating for specialized oncology nursing training to enhance patient management and outcomes.

The discussions further addressed the mental health implications of cancer, emphasizing the psychological toll it takes on patients and families and the need for holistic care that integrates emotional and mental health support.

The University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex continues to support national and international efforts geared toward promoting cancer awareness, early detection, and quality healthcare delivery for all.

©️USLTHC Media

15/10/2025

Engages WACP Accreditation Team on Community Health Department Accreditation

The Chief Medical Director of the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex (USLTHC), Professor Kehinde Oluwadiya, together with the Head of the Community Health Department, Dr. Alhaji Momodu Sesay, and his team, held a productive meeting with the Accreditation Team from the West African College of Physicians (WACP).

The engagement focused on the accreditation of the Community Health Department, a critical step toward strengthening postgraduate medical training and ensuring compliance with regional standards set by the WACP.

During the meeting, both parties discussed ongoing improvements in infrastructure, clinical training, and faculty development within the department. Professor Oluwadiya reaffirmed USLTHC’s commitment to supporting quality medical education and continuous professional development.

The WACP accreditation team commended the institution’s progress and dedication to excellence and pledged continued collaboration to enhance community health training and service delivery in Sierra Leone.

USLTHC remains committed to its mandates as the leading health institution in Sierra Leone.

USLTHC Media