new pediatric unit in koutiala Mali improves child health

Since 2009, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has operated a pediatric program in Koutiala, southeastern Mali, to combat child mortality through preventive and curative care across the region. To enhance medical support for young patients, MSF constructed a state-of-the-art pediatric unit in Koutiala, monitored over a year of development.

Malaria remains a leading cause of child mortality in Koutiala. Affected children often experience reduced appetite, increasing malnutrition risks. Malnourished children also face heightened vulnerability to severe illnesses. MSF addresses this cycle by providing free, high-quality hospital care for children with life-threatening conditions while expanding pediatric services and access to health care in villages throughout Koutiala District to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit consolidates all pediatric services in one modern facility, optimizing medical care.

During peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall), combined with the ‘hunger gap’ in October/November, up to 1,000 children are admitted annually to the pediatric and malnutrition wards at Koutiala Hospital, supported by MSF.

In Episode 2, meet Luca alongside Marie Hortense, MSF Medical Coordinator in Koutiala, and Hyppolite, Deputy Project Coordinator. Together, they visit the Annex, a facility designed to handle surges in patient admissions.

In Episode 3, accompany Luca and Ana, Project Construction Coordinator, to the construction site. Witness the final stages of the pediatric unit’s development.

In Episode 4, the long-awaited unveiling of the new hospital arrives. Join Nicolas and Albert as they explore the facility’s benefits, including streamlined care and modern amenities that significantly improve patient outcomes.

In the final episode, Nicolas travels to Konséguéla, approximately 50 kilometers from Koutiala, where MSF supports a local health center.