Since 2009, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has managed a pediatric program in Koutiala, southeastern Mali, to reduce child mortality through preventive and curative care. To enhance treatment for young patients, MSF constructed a new pediatric unit. We documented the construction over more than a year.

Malaria remains a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Children suffering from malaria often experience poor appetite, which can lead to malnutrition. Conversely, malnourished children are more susceptible to severe illnesses. MSF combats this vicious cycle by providing free, high-quality hospital care for children with serious conditions and expanding pediatric services in villages across the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit consolidates all patients in one location with advanced, modern equipment.

Up to 1,000 children are admitted to the pediatric and malnutrition wards at the Koutiala hospital, supported by MSF, during the peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall), which coincides with the “food deficit” period in October/November.

In episode 2: Meet Luca, accompanied by Marie Hortense, MSF’s medical coordinator in Koutiala, and Hyppolite, deputy project coordinator. Together, they visit the Annex, a facility set up to handle surges in patient admissions.

In episode 3: Accompanied by Ana, Construction Project Coordinator, Luca visits the still-under-construction site to preview the final look of the pediatric unit.

In episode 4: The long-awaited moment has arrived—discover the new hospital. Join Nicolas and Albert as they explore this modern facility and learn how the new building benefits patients. The pediatric unit centralizes all patient care in one location with state-of-the-art equipment.

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