Although Sierra Leone was declared free from Ebola on 17 March 2016, the country is still struggling to rebuild its overburdened health system.
Many people have no access to medical care, resulting in some of the world’s worst health indicators, particularly for mothers and children.
As a response to the situation, MSF runs medical activities in Koinadugu in close collaboration with the Ministry of Health. Since MSF started working in the region, the capacity of Kabala Hospital has been increased from 81 to 150 beds.
More than 8,500 patients have been treated, and over 500 women with complicated deliveries have been assisted to give birth. In Mongo, a rural part of Koinadugu district, MSF has successfully established a blood bank.
The clown team haven’t limited their antics to the children’s ward. They’ve been taking their slapstick shows to the local villages, reinforcing MSF’s health promotion activities on topics like malaria prevention and antenatal care.
And it doesn't stop there. The clown team ran a series of workshops to teach the MSF and Ministry of Health staff how they can integrate playfulness and humour into their daily work routines, so the laughter on the wards can continue long after their visit has ended.
