Since 2009, Doctors Without Borders has operated pediatric programs in Koutiala, southern Mali, to combat child mortality through prevention and treatment. To enhance care for hospitalized young patients, MSF constructed a new pediatric unit. Over more than a year, we documented the entire development process.

Malaria stands as a leading cause of child mortality in the Koutiala region. Infected children often lose their appetite, increasing malnutrition risks. Malnourished children become vulnerable to severe illnesses, creating a dangerous cycle. MSF addresses this by providing free, high-quality hospital care for children with life-threatening conditions and expanding pediatric services in villages across Koutiala district to prevent complications before they arise.

The new pediatric unit consolidates all patient care on one site with advanced, modern equipment.

During peak malaria season (typically June to December, depending on rainfall) — compounded by the lean season in October/November — Koutiala hospital’s pediatric and malnutrition departments supported by MSF admit up to 1,000 children.

In episode 2, join Luca, accompanied by Marie Hortense (MSF Medical Coordinator in Koutiala) and Hyppolite (Deputy Project Coordinator), as they visit the Annex facility designed to handle patient surges during critical periods.

In episode 3, Luca joins Ana (Construction Project Coordinator) at the construction site to preview the finished pediatric unit.

Episode 4 delivers the long-awaited reveal: discover the new hospital with Nicolas and Albert. The upgraded pediatric unit centralizes patient care with cutting-edge facilities that significantly improve treatment outcomes.

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