Since 2009, Médecins Sans Frontières has operated a pediatric program in Koutiala, southeastern Mali, to combat child mortality through preventive and curative care in Koutiala and surrounding districts. To further enhance care for young patients, MSF commissioned the construction of a new pediatric unit in Koutiala, documenting the process over more than a year.

Malaria remains a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Children with malaria often lose their appetite, increasing the risk of malnutrition. Malnourished children become extremely vulnerable and more susceptible to severe illnesses. To break this cycle, MSF provides free, high-quality hospital care for children with life-threatening conditions while expanding pediatric services and access to healthcare in villages throughout the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit consolidates all patient care on a single site equipped with modern facilities.

Up to 1,000 children are admitted to the pediatrics and malnutrition wards at Koutiala Hospital, supported by MSF, during the peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall) and the hunger gap in October and November.

In Episode 2, meet Luca, accompanied by Marie Hortense, MSF Medical Coordinator in Koutiala, and Hyppolite, Deputy Project Coordinator. Together, they visit the Annex, a facility designed to handle patient surges.

In Episode 3, Luca, joined by Ana, Project Construction Coordinator, visits the construction site to preview the final pediatric unit design.

Episode 4 reveals the long-awaited discovery: the new hospital. Join Nicolas and Albert to explore this facility and its benefits for patients. The new pediatric unit centralizes all care on one modern, enhanced site.

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