In the Center-North of Burkina Faso, the town of Boulsa has been facing heavy pressure for several years on basic social services. Despite the dedication of health authorities and local staff, the scale of needs demanded extra support. Since 2023, the ALIMA–Keoogo–SOS Médecins BF partnership has been working to strengthen the health system to deliver quality care to the population.
A key institution facing major challenges
Boulsa, capital of Namentenga province, is now home to thousands of internally displaced people. The Medical Center with Surgical Antenna, a key establishment in the area, had to absorb a surge of patients.
Despite their strong mobilization, local teams were faced with many obstacles: staff shortages, insufficient equipment, limited waste management, the need to increase the capacity and quality of the laundry room, as well as an overstretched pediatric ward, and significant mental health needs.
“Before ALIMA arrived in 2023, the Medical Center with Surgical Antenna lacked sufficient personnel and medical equipment, due to the pressure on the health system.”
Dr. Hama, ALIMA’s lead physician in Boulsa
These challenges did not diminish the caregivers’ commitment, but they made it difficult to constantly maintain hygiene, safety, and comfort standards expected in a reference hospital.
Small changes improving daily life
ALIMA and its partners have chosen to strengthen the work already in place through targeted actions on hospital living spaces and hygiene.
- A biomedical waste management area has been built, as well as washing and drying areas. Staff have been trained, hygienists recruited, and rigorous protocols applied. As a result, the safety of patients, staff, and caregivers facing infectious risks has significantly improved.
- The hospital laundry, once entirely manual, is now equipped and up to standard. Sheets are washed in better conditions, reducing the risk of cross-contamination.
“We have reduced the risk of contamination: the sheets are clean and well-maintained, and both patients and staff have noticed a difference.”
Jean-Baptiste Nabaloum, head of pediatrics
A more family- and child-friendly hospital
Beyond the logistical aspects, ALIMA’s intervention also aimed to make the hospital more family-friendly.
- In pediatrics, a psychostimulation room has been established: this is an important therapeutic space to support the psycho-emotional development of hospitalized children and promote their well-being during their stay.
- For accompanying families, a visitor shelter has been built. Previously, patients’ relatives had to wait outside, sometimes under a tree. They now have a shaded area with benches, providing dignified waiting conditions.
“Before, we stayed under a tree or slept outside. Now, we can wait more calmly.”
Mariam, mother of a young patient.
Restoring dignity and comfort
In Boulsa, ALIMA-Keoogo-SOS Médecins BF’s support has helped to place patient dignity back at the heart of care.
In a hospital that is now better equipped, cleaner, and more welcoming, care is no longer limited to medical procedures: it comes with improved conditions, which are essential for recovery.
This joint work with local health authorities shows that providing a safe, humane, and respectful environment is an integral part of the care needed for recovery.
This action was made possible thanks to the support of ECHO and USAID/BHA.
Photos : © Steve DOULKOM / ALIMA
