The referral hospital in L’Estère, located north of Saint-Marc, has reopened after being forced to close due to violent clashes in 2024, leaving approximately 80,000 residents without essential health care. The Ministry of Public Health and Population successfully resumed hospital operations in April 2026, although the facility is currently operating with significantly limited staff and resources.
Dr. Wesny Norvil, the medical director of the hospital, stated, “The hospital is supposed to be a referral hospital, but before MSF arrived, we were operating like a health center. We were short of staff, equipment, and logistical resources.”
Since August, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) has been assisting the hospital by providing essential emergency care, maternal deliveries, and consultations. They are also transferring more serious cases to facilities with better capabilities. In addition, MSF supplies additional medical personnel and medications, along with logistical, technical, and financial support, which enhances the hospital’s operations and allows services to be provided at no cost to patients.
The ongoing partnership aims to improve health care access for the community, particularly as the hospital faces challenges stemming from resource limitations. Continued support is critical for addressing the healthcare needs of the L’Estère population.
