By Lamin Daramy
Sierra Leone’s judiciary on Tuesday launched the construction of its first dedicated health facility for judges and court staff, in a move aimed at improving welfare and healthcare delivery within the justice system.
The Deputy Minister of Health, Professor Charles Senesie, joined judiciary officials and representatives of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Main Law Courts Building in Freetown for a sod-turning ceremony marking the start of construction.
The project, facilitated by Chief Justice Komba Kamanda, is expected to provide basic medical services to judges, magistrates and other judicial workers.
Planned facilities include a waiting and treatment room, a rest area, storage for essential drugs, as well as electricity, running water and modern medical equipment. Dedicated nursing staff are also expected to be assigned to the clinic.
Deputy Master and Registrar Lloyd Hindolo Jusu said the facility would help address the physical and mental strain associated with judicial work.
“The nature of judicial work is demanding and stressful, especially for judges and magistrates who handle complex matters daily,” Jusu said, adding that staff wellbeing was critical to the effective administration of justice.
Alieu J. Jalloh, chief executive officer of ALCON Construction Company, said the firm would deliver the project to approved standards.
A representative of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Lonnie Larson, said the clinic forms part of the organisation’s broader humanitarian efforts to support institutions and communities. He said the contractor was selected through a competitive bidding process.
Larson said the project followed discussions with Justice Marke Ngegba, who highlighted the need for a healthcare facility within the judiciary. He commended the chief justice for supporting the initiative.
Construction of the clinic is expected to mark a milestone in ongoing reforms within Sierra Leone’s judiciary aimed at improving staff welfare and institutional capacity.
Sierra Leone’s judiciary has in recent years pursued reforms to strengthen efficiency and working conditions, including infrastructure upgrades and administrative improvements. However, access to dedicated healthcare services for judicial staff has remained limited, with most relying on external medical facilities.
The new clinic is expected to reduce pressure on public health services and improve response to workplace-related health needs within the justice sector.
