Friday 14th September 2007
Arrive in Sierra Leone.
My first impression of Sierra Leone was how beautiful she is. Although she has been through a decade of war she still shines. The beaches remind me of Caribbean’s, but with the vibe of West Africa. To get to Freetown I had to take the helicopter- what an exciting, scary ride.
Being the youngest MSI programme and as the new Programme Director for MSI Ghana it’s imperative I visit our neighbouring country programmes to see and learn good practices. Marie Stopes Sierra Leone has been providing sexual and reproductive health care and obstetric care for 20 years. The programme provided services all throughout the war, which must have been very difficult for the team. Some of those team members are still working for programme. I have a lot to learn from them.
Monday 17th
I spent part of my day meeting with the senor management team discussing their roles, the challenges that exist in Sierra Leone and how as a team they have resolved them. Dr Yvonne Harding, the Programme Director, give me an excellent insight into how to bridge the gap between NGO’s (non government organisations) and the government.
After lunch I spent time in the obstetrics department in Ahmed Drive. I got the opportunity to hold same babies which always makes my day.
Tuesday 18th
I particularly enjoyed today as I got the opportunity to visit our clinics in Waterloo Road and Kissy (both in Freetown). Both were packed with clients who needed help. I was really impressed that while clients wait for their turn to be seen they are shown educational videos on reproductive health. I think this is an excellent idea and will taking this back to Ghana with me.
Later I had the privilege of meeting some very important representatives who work at the Ministry of Health (MoH) to discuss private and public partnerships. I gained insight into how beneficial this can be for a country like Ghana and I have a lot to have a do when I get back!
Wednesday 19th
I met a gentlemen from the MoH planning department - I was very motivated by him as he shared his experience about how the MoH and how it and Marie Stopes Sierra Leone have been working in partnership.
Thursday 20th
I spent most of my day discussing logistics with the senior management team followed by a debriefing session with them.
I spent the evening with the team at a beach restaurant, enjoying my last night in Sierra Leone.
Friday 21st
Back to Ghana armed with ideas and even more motivated than before, watch out team here I come. Sierra Leone - I’ll be back!