Sonni, 33, is studying at the University of Liberia to become a teacher. She loves her calling but there is one fly in the ointment: she has eye vision problems. It doesn’t stop her from learning effectively but it is an irritant. This is the first time she has ever been able to see a specialist eye doctor – prior to today she could not afford it.

Sonni is at UNMIL’s Jordanian Level III Hospital medical outreach taking place at the Virginia Christian Academy near River View, in Liberia’s capital Monrovia, on Saturday 15 December. Specialist doctors treated over 500 men, women and children for eye conditions and other ailments free of charge. They also provided meals to all and gifted 300 schoolbags to the children.

“There are many locals who live below the poverty line who can’t afford their bills, they can’t even reach the only hospital in their areas,” says Grace-Tee Kpaan, Montserrado’s County Superintendent.

58-year-old Musu was a very active lady - taking her kids to school, selling her goods - right up to the time she got sick. For 14 years she has had back and leg problems and is in constant pain. “The doctor said there is a space between the spinal cord and that my weight is too heavy, so I must eat more vegetables, rice and bread,” she says as she cuddles her eight month old niece, Julie. The doctor has prescribed painkillers that will last her ten days, but there is only so much that can be done on such an outreach. Serious cases are referred up to the hospitals.

“This is an expression of goodwill, as well as a means of ensuring the good health of the local population,” said Brig.-Gen. Hugh Van Roosen, UNMIL’s Chief of Staff for the Military.

One positive outcome of the day is that the JORMED peacekeepers will transfer the patients’ names over to the Health Ministry so that they can be formally registered for further treatments. Nonetheless, the medical officers are keen to expand and improve their capacities. James Mosser, Chief of UNMIL’s CIMIC (Civil-Military Co-operation), envisages having Liberian medical students sit in session with the specialist doctors on future outreaches.