Abdul Jalloh, Sierra Leone’s only psychiatrist, transformed the country’s sole psychiatric hospital.
Six years ago, he began leading reforms at the facility on the outskirts of Freetown, drastically improving mental health services.
Jalloh eliminated the inhumane practice of chaining patients and attracted new talent with support from a U.S.-based nonprofit and the Sierra Leone government.
The hospital now boasts three qualified psychiatrists, a new residency program, and 135 staff members.
A recent Associated Press visit showed a new environment: an Afrobeats song playing during a football game among patients.
This scene marks a significant change from the hospital’s previous reputation as a “Crase Yard” or asylum for the mentally ill.
The U.S. nonprofit Partners In Health has heavily invested in the hospital, including a new rehab center for drug users.
Despite this progress, mental health services are scarce outside Freetown, and many still seek help from traditional or religious healers.
Challenges persist, including outdated laws and limited psychiatric training.
Despite these, Jalloh remains committed, though rising addiction rates have affected his own mental health.
The hospital continues to face issues such as security to prevent patients from accessing drugs.
