The Minister of Health and Sanitation, Haja Zainab Bangura yesterday, Thursday, 26 January welcomed a team twenty-nine (29) Cuban medics sent in to augment health care delivery in the country. The 29 arrived onboard Air France last Wednesday and will be deployed in various parts of the country, including, Bo, Kenema, Kono, Lungi in the Port Loko district, the Princess Christian Maternity Hospital (PCMH), Ola During Children’s hospital, the Kissy Mental Home and Connaught hospital among others.
The team is made up of surgeon specialists, pediatricians, gynecologists, obstetricians, dental surgeons, bio-medical engineers, anesthetists, midwives, and intensive care unit specialists.
Addressing the team, at the Ministry’s conference room, the Minister said that the coming of the Medics was “a dream comes true”.
She thanked the Cuban government for responding to the need of the people of Sierra Leone and the South African government for their financial support.
The Health Minister underscored the important role Sierra Leone’s Ambassador to Ghana, Alhaji Foday Yassaneh played in facilitating the coming of the Cubans through his constant meetings with his Cuban counterpart in Ghana.
Haja Zainab Bangura highlighted some of the challenges facing the health sector especially in the arera of psychiatry. She assured them that their interest and security will be paramount.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Cuba, Jorge F. Lefebre Nicolas said that the medics are happy to be in Sierra Leone in response to the needs of the country. He disclosed that Cuba is proud to share what they have with other people of the world.
South African High Commissioner to Sierra Leone, Jeanette Ndhlovu expressed excitement that the partnership is working. She added that the South Africa government will continue to help Sierra Leone, adding that this is the beginning of cooperation between South Africa and Sierra Leone. Two more Cuban Medics are expected in the country on 29th January instant.
By Abibatu Kamara