Since 2009, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) has operated a pediatric program in Koutiala, southeastern Mali, to tackle high child mortality through prevention and treatment in the region. To enhance care for young patients, MSF constructed a modern pediatric unit at Koutiala Hospital. Over 12 months, teams documented every phase of this project.

Malaria remains a leading cause of child mortality in Koutiala. Affected children often suffer from reduced appetite, triggering malnutrition. Malnourished children become vulnerable to severe illnesses, creating a dangerous cycle. MSF addresses this by offering free, high-quality hospital care for seriously ill children and expanding pediatric services across villages in the Koutiala district to prevent complications.

The new pediatric unit centralizes all child patients in one advanced facility, improving medical team efficiency.

During peak malaria season (typically June–December, depending on rainfall), and the food shortage period (October–November), up to 1,000 children are admitted to the pediatric and malnutrition wards at Koutiala Hospital, supported by MSF.

In Episode 2, discover Luca, joined 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.

In Episode 3, Luca, accompanied by Ana (Construction Project Coordinator), visits the construction site to preview the final design of the new pediatric unit.

In Episode 4, the wait is over: the new hospital is unveiled. Follow Nicolas and Albert as they explore the facility and highlight the benefits of this modern space for young patients. The new pediatric unit consolidates all child care under one roof with upgraded equipment.

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