By Sallieu S. Kaniu
FREETOWN — The Management of Connaught Hospital, under the University of Sierra Leone Teaching Hospitals Complex, has announced the temporary closure of its mortuary facility beginning Monday, July 21, 2025. The six-week shutdown is part of a nationwide initiative to modernize post-mortem services and strengthen the country’s healthcare infrastructure.
The decision follows persistent mechanical failures of cold storage equipment at the Connaught Mortuary, which has long served as Sierra Leone’s central post-mortem and forensic site. According to hospital officials, the mortuary’s refrigeration system has reached the end of its lifespan, and continued operation poses serious risks to the quality of service and preservation standards.
Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, confirmed the intervention, stating: “We have acquired 10 brand-new mortuary refrigerators for key hospitals nationwide, including Connaught. However, we cannot place modern equipment in a facility with deteriorated structural and electrical systems. The renovation will address these challenges and lay a foundation for improved services.”
Modern Facilities Incoming
The refurbishment will include: Installation of new cold rooms; upgraded plumbing and electrical systems; and enhanced amenities to support both grieving families and clinical staff.
During the closure period, corpses will be preserved at alternative health facilities including: and 34 Military Hospital,
Jui (Chinese) Hospital, Police Hospital.
Embalming services will continue at Connaught Hospital for in-hospital deaths only, with a two-day holding limit for families to retrieve their loved ones.
The mortuary plays a pivotal role not only in the health sector but in the justice system through forensic investigations, medico-legal services, and public health surveillance. Both the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the Ministry of Internal Affairs are collaborating closely to ensure a smooth transition during the upgrade.
The hospital has expressed regret for any inconvenience this may cause and reassured the public of its firm commitment to safe, dignified, and respectful care for the deceased.