Stories
July 2, 2025 • 2 min read
In rural Sierra Leone, GOAL’s Clinical Mentorship Program is helping to reduce maternal and child mortality by improving frontline healthcare delivery. Fatmata Kamara, a nurse in Kambia District, gained critical skills through the program and was later promoted to lead a new facility. At Gbolon MCHP, she quickly restored operations, managed high-risk cases, and built trust with the local community.
Launching the Clinical Mentorship Program with Irish Aid Support
Sierra Leone continues to face high maternal and child mortality rates, particularly in rural areas where healthcare services are limited. A 2022 evaluation by the Institute for Development identified poor service quality and inadequate training as key contributors. In response, GOAL Sierra Leone, through the Irish Aid-supported Ireland’s Civil Society Partnership (ICSP), launched the Clinical Mentorship Program to strengthen healthcare delivery at local facilities by pairing experienced professionals with junior staff. The program currently operates in four districts, focusing on building practical skills and confidence among healthcare workers.
Reducing Maternal and Child Mortality
GOAL’s Clinical Mentorship Program was introduced to improve the quality of care at Peripheral Health Units, Maternal and Child Health Posts (MCHP), and Community Health Centers. By pairing experienced nurses and midwives with less experienced staff, the program builds capacity and ensures continuity of care. Fatmata Kamara, a mentee in Kambia District, benefited directly from this initiative when her supervisor went on extended leave. With support from GOAL, she gained the skills needed to manage the facility independently and was later promoted to lead Gbolon MCHP.
“When I was at Modia, GOAL implemented the mentorship program, and I was assigned as a mentee. I learned new skills, including how to properly fill a partograph, administer Epitome, treat eclampsia, and manage emergency care situations. This training prepared me for the responsibility I now hold,” Fatmata shared.
Transition and Leadership at Gbolon MCHP
Upon her appointment, Fatmata found Gbolon MCHP in poor condition. She organized a three-day cleaning campaign, restocked essential medicines, and engaged the Facility Management Committee to ensure community support. Her proactive approach helped restore basic services and build trust with local residents. She also held a community meeting to introduce herself and outline her plans for the facility formally.
“I am extremely grateful for the mentorship program. It has given me the skills and confidence to manage my facility and provide quality care,” Fatmata said.
Managing Critical Cases and Ongoing Challenges
Fatmata’s training was put to the test when she handled several high-risk maternal cases, including eclampsia and a patient with a history of caesarean delivery. In each case, she provided initial care and arranged timely referrals to the district hospital, contributing to positive outcomes. However, she continues to face significant challenges, including inadequate sanitation, a lack of clean water, and limited access to medical equipment.
“GOAL’s mentorship program has changed the way we work and improved healthcare delivery in our communities. With continued support, we can save more lives and transform rural healthcare in Sierra Leone.” Fatmata reflected.
