By Abdul Kamara

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has formally brought its medical support programs in Bombali and Tonkolili districts to a close, ending nearly ten years of service to some of Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable communities.

The announcement came on Friday, 26 September 2025, marking the conclusion of a partnership that has been central to healthcare delivery in the two districts since 2016.

During its time in Sierra Leone, MSF provided a lifeline for thousands of women, children, and patients battling tuberculosis. Its work combined direct medical care with long-term health system support, a strategy that helped fill critical gaps in areas where access to services was limited.

Reflecting on the organization’s exit, Abi Kebra Belaye, MSF’s Head of Mission in Sierra Leone, described the moment as both emotional and fulfilling. “For almost a decade, our work has been driven by a commitment to serve those most in need. We leave with a deep sense of fulfilment and are proud of the achievements made in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the communities we’ve served,” Belaye said.

MSF’s withdrawal comes as Sierra Leone continues to rebuild its healthcare system following the devastating Ebola epidemic of 2014-2016. Over the years, MSF has played a key role in maternal and child health, improving hospital care, and tackling infectious diseases in underserved communities.

In Bombali, the organization worked closely with Makeni Regional Hospital and nearby health centers, focusing on maternal and neonatal care. Many women and newborns benefited from lifesaving interventions, contributing to a significant reduction in maternal deaths. In Tonkolili, MSF concentrated on primary healthcare, ensuring that children under five received treatment for malaria, pneumonia, and diarrheal diseases, some of the leading causes of child mortality.

Beyond direct care, MSF invested heavily in building local capacity. Sierra Leonean health workers received training, referral systems were strengthened, and infection prevention practices were improved. Outreach programs also helped communities understand health risks and encouraged early treatment, breaking down barriers to care.

Though its departure is seen as the end of a chapter, MSF expressed confidence that the Ministry of Health is better prepared to continue the work. Officials say the legacy of the partnership includes stronger infrastructure, better-trained staff, and more resilient systems.

For many residents of Bombali and Tonkolili, MSF’s contribution is unforgettable. Communities remember the organization’s swift response during Ebola and its sustained support in the years that followed. The exit is therefore bittersweet an acknowledgment of the progress achieved, but also a reminder of the continuing need for investment in healthcare.

MSF has assured Sierra Leoneans that its commitment to the country remains firm, even as it steps back from Bombali and Tonkolili. “We may be ending our work in these districts, but MSF remains present in Sierra Leone and committed to working where the needs are greatest,” Belaye said. ‎