Since 2009, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has operated a pediatric program in Koutiala, southern Mali, to combat high child mortality rates through preventive and curative care in the city and surrounding district. To further improve care for young patients, MSF commissioned the construction of a new pediatric unit in Koutiala, documenting its progress over more than a year.

Malaria stands as a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Infected children often suffer from reduced appetite, increasing their risk of malnutrition. Conversely, malnourished children become more vulnerable to severe illnesses. To break this vicious cycle, MSF provides free, high-quality hospital care for children with life-threatening conditions while expanding pediatric services and access to healthcare in villages across the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit consolidates all pediatric and malnutrition services under one roof, equipped with modern facilities to enhance patient care.

During peak malaria season—typically June to December, depending on rainfall—alongside the lean season (known locally as the ‘food deficit’ in October/November), up to 1,000 children are admitted to the pediatric and malnutrition wards at the Koutiala hospital, supported by MSF.

Episode 2 follows Luca, accompanied by Marie Hortense (MSF medical coordinator in Koutiala) and Hyppolite (deputy project coordinator), as they visit the Annex—a facility designed to handle surges in patient numbers during critical periods.

In Episode 3, Luca joins Ana (Construction Project Coordinator) at the construction site to preview the completed pediatric unit and its final design.

Episode 4 marks the long-awaited reveal of the new hospital. Join Nicolas and Albert as they explore the facility and highlight how the upgraded infrastructure benefits patients. The new pediatric unit centralizes all services, integrating modern equipment to improve care quality.

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