28th May, 2026
“This facility belongs to the community. If we take care of it today, it will continue to save lives tomorrow.”
These were the powerful words of the MD/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura, as he addressed the audience during the inauguration of the York Community Health Centre – Maternity Section.
There was joy, excitement, and celebration across York Community as lactating mothers, pregnant women, community leaders, health workers, partners, and residents gathered to witness this important moment.
The ceremony began with a call to order and individual prayers, followed by the invitation of distinguished guests to the high table. Among those present were the CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, Aicha Toure; MD/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura; Director of Orange Foundation, Annie Wonnie Katta; York Community Village Chairman, Juldrick Pratt; CHO, Lansana Fofanah; HR Director, Agnes Mamayeh Songa; SHAPE Project Solthis Coordinator, Anisette Busi; Country Director of The Mama-Pikin Foundation, Leeann Mahota Rizk; and the Ministry of Health representative, DMO Prince Masuba.
UBA Sierra Leone was strongly represented by a full team from the BMCC and Corporate Banking, showing their united support and commitment to the partnership and the success of the project.
But the event was more than just the opening of a building. It was about bringing hope, better healthcare, and a brighter future to mothers, babies, and families in York Community.
The project became possible through the partnership between UBA Foundation and Orange Foundation. Earlier this year, on 3rd February, both organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding to work together in improving healthcare services, supporting communities, and promoting digital inclusion across Sierra Leone.
In her remarks, Orange Sierra Leone CEO, Aicha Toure, thanked UBA Foundation and all partners who contributed to the success of the project. She described the maternity section as a strong symbol of hope for mothers, babies, and the entire York Community.
She explained that the project shows what can happen when organisations work together for the good of communities. She also spoke about Orange Foundation’s continued commitment to improving lives through healthcare, education, and community support. She encouraged the people of York to protect the facility and make good use of it for future generations.
One of the most inspiring moments of the ceremony was the address delivered by the MD/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone, Mohamed Alhajie Samoura. His speech captured the attention and hearts of many people present.
He explained that through the UBA Foundation, UBA Sierra Leone remains committed to supporting communities and improving lives across the country. According to him, UBA is not only focused on making profits, but also believes in giving back to the communities where it operates.
He revealed that UBA has a policy where a certain percent of its profit is dedicated to supporting communities through impactful projects and initiatives.
Speaking passionately, Mr. Samoura highlighted UBA’s strong commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility, especially in healthcare, education, youth empowerment, and community development.
He noted that the maternity section is more than just a healthcare facility. According to him, it is a place where mothers will receive quality care, babies will be safely delivered, and families will find comfort, support, and hope.
He also spoke briefly about UBA’s key pillars of support, especially healthcare, which he said was one of the reasons the bank gladly accepted the partnership with Orange Foundation.
The MD/CEO further stated that the partnership between UBA Sierra Leone and Orange Sierra Leone will continue to grow stronger, as both institutions remain committed to changing lives and supporting communities.
He later called on the people of York Community to take ownership of the facility, maintain it properly, and ensure it continues to serve generations to come.
“This facility belongs to the community,” he stressed. “If we take care of it today, it will continue to save lives tomorrow.”
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, the District Medical Officer (DMO), Prince Masuba, expressed satisfaction with the initiative and commended both UBA Foundation and Orange Foundation for their strong support to government efforts in strengthening healthcare delivery.
He highlighted that the project aligns with the Government of Sierra Leone’s commitment, particularly the President’s mandate that “no mother should die during childbirth.” He also referenced the ongoing “300 Days of Activism” aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes across the country.
He further noted that partnerships like this play a critical role in reducing maternal mortality and supporting the national health agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the community, York Community Village Chairman, Juldrick Pratt, expressed deep appreciation to UBA Foundation and Orange Foundation for supporting the community. He described the new maternity section as a huge blessing for women and families in York.
CHO Lansana Fofanah also shared his happiness, noting that the improved maternity section will help health workers provide better care for pregnant women, mothers, and newborn babies.
Country Director of The Mama-Pikin Foundation, Leeann Mahota Rizk, praised the partnership and highlighted the importance of investing in maternal healthcare to build healthier communities.
As the ribbon was finally cut by the MD/CEO of UBA Sierra Leone and the CEO of Orange Sierra Leone, guests toured the facility while smiles filled the faces of community members and health workers.
For many residents, the moment felt like the beginning of something new and positive for York Community.
Conclusively, group photos were taken. The inauguration of the York Community Health Centre – Maternity Section, was not only the opening of a building, but the opening of a brighter future for mothers, babies, and families in York Community.
