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

Malaria is a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Children with malaria often lose their appetite, which can lead to malnutrition. Additionally, malnourished children become weak and vulnerable to other illnesses. To break this vicious cycle, MSF provides free, high-quality hospital care for children with severe illnesses and implements pediatric activities and healthcare access in villages across the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit enables medical teams to consolidate all patients on one site with modern, upgraded equipment.

Up to 1,000 children are admitted to the pediatric and malnutrition wards at Koutiala Hospital, supported by MSF, during the peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall), which coincides with the lean season (known as the “food deficit” in October/November) in this region.

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 set up to handle patient surges during peak periods.

In episode 3, accompanied by Ana, Project Construction Coordinator, Luca visits the construction site. This offers a glimpse of the final outcome 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 this state-of-the-art facility and discover how it benefits patients. The new pediatric unit consolidates all patients on one site with modern, upgraded equipment.

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