Since 2009, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has operated a pediatric program in Koutiala, southeastern Mali, to combat child mortality through preventive and curative services. To enhance care for hospitalized young patients, MSF constructed a new pediatric unit in Koutiala, documenting its progress over more than a year.

Malaria remains a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Affected children often experience appetite loss, increasing their risk of malnutrition. Conversely, malnourished children grow weaker and become more susceptible to severe illnesses. To break this cycle, MSF offers free, high-quality hospital care for children with life-threatening conditions while expanding pediatric services and health access in villages across the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit centralizes all pediatric and malnutrition patients in one modern facility with improved equipment.

During peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall) and the lean season (October/November), up to 1,000 children are admitted to the Koutiala hospital’s pediatric and malnutrition wards, supported by MSF.

In Episode 2, meet Luca, joined by 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 numbers.

In Episode 3, Luca, accompanied by Ana, Project Construction Coordinator, visits the construction site. This visit offers a preview of the final design of the pediatric unit.

In Episode 4, the long-awaited moment arrives: the unveiling of the new hospital. Join Nicolas and Albert as they explore the facility and highlight the benefits of this modern building for patients. The new pediatric unit consolidates all pediatric services in one upgraded, state-of-the-art space.

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