AYV News, June 20, 2024
Sierra Leone’s First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has taken Ambassador Jean Todt, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Road Safety on a tour to 34 Military Multi-Purpose Hospital in Wilberforce, Freetown to promote road safety awareness and strengthen regional partnerships.
Ambassador Todt toured the hospital, engaging with medical staff and military personnel. The visit emphasized the importance of road safety measures and highlighted the hospital’s crucial role in providing quality care for accident victims.
During the visit, First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio showcased her contributions to the 34 Military Hospital Project, emphasizing the hospital’s pivotal role in protecting Sierra Leoneans, especially during major disease outbreaks. She stressed the need for upgrades to meet high demand.
“The 34 Military Hospital continues to play a leading role in protecting the lives of Sierra Leoneans, especially during major disease outbreaks,” said First Lady. She highlighted that the reconstruction project will include a one-stop centre of excellence for rape and sexual offence victims. This centre will be fully digitized, equipped with advanced technology, and staffed by professional nurses and social workers trained to care for victims.
Her Excellency noted that she has not received any funding from the government or non-governmental organizations for this project. She also used the occasion to highlight President Bio’s commitment to women’s empowerment, evident in the appointment of numerous women to key leadership positions.
“The President believes women should have equal opportunities to serve the nation,” she stated.
Ambassador Todt expressed satisfaction with the work being done by the First Lady to provide sustainable healthcare facilities for the citizens of Sierra Leone.
In a similar development, Ambassador Todt engaged with key stakeholders to advance road safety initiatives in Sierra Leone. This event, under the patronage of First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, marks a crucial step forward in the nation’s ongoing efforts to bolster road safety.
Chief Minister Dr. David Moinina Sengeh extended a warm welcome to Ambassador Todt, acknowledging the First Lady’s initiative in bringing together stakeholders dedicated to road safety. He emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in ensuring safer road conditions for all citizens.
First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio in her address, warmly welcomed the special envoy and all stakeholders present. She recalled her initial meeting with Ambassador Todt in Turkey last year, where they discussed mutual interests in enhancing road safety. “Our goal today is to ensure safer roads for our children, communities, and ourselves,” she affirmed, underscoring the critical nature of their shared mission.
Ambassador Todt reiterated his commitment to advancing road safety, emphasizing that it requires collective action beyond governmental efforts. “The responsibility for road safety lies with every citizen,” he stressed, highlighting the need for inclusive participation in safeguarding road users.
The gathering also featured insights from key figures such as the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA), the Deputy Minister of Finance 1, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs, and the Director-General of the Sierra Leone Broadcasting Corporation (SLBC). Each speaker contributed perspectives on infrastructure improvements, public awareness campaigns, and partnerships vital to enhancing road safety in Sierra Leone.
The discussions underscored a shared commitment to fostering safer roads and reducing traffic incidents through comprehensive strategies. The leadership of First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio in facilitating this significant meeting highlights her dedication to the well-being of Sierra Leoneans. Her efforts underscore the importance of international collaboration in addressing critical public health issues and ensuring a safer environment nationwide.
