Cleaning Up: Leadership in an Age of Climate Change
We Built a Solar System That's Saving Babies’ Lives — Ep204: Project Bo, Sierra Leone
Apr 9, 2025
Dr. Niall Conroy, a pioneering doctor who established a neonatal intensive care unit in Sierra Leone, discusses his inspiring project, Project Bo. This solar initiative is crucial for providing reliable electricity, saving vulnerable newborns from the dangers posed by frequent power outages. He shares the transformative impact of solar power on neonatal care, enhancing survival rates and improving conditions for both infants and their mothers. Conroy also emphasizes the significance of ongoing support to ensure these life-saving resources remain accessible.
38:26
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Project Bo successfully implemented a solar system that significantly reduced infant mortality by ensuring reliable electricity for neonatal care in Sierra Leone.
- Continuous challenges like battery maintenance and patient demand highlight the need for sustainable support and resources in under-resourced healthcare facilities.
Deep dives
The Need for Reliable Power in Neonatal Care
Sierra Leone experiences one of the world's highest infant mortality rates, heavily influenced by inadequate electricity supply affecting healthcare systems. Infants in neonatal units require consistent power for incubators, oxygen concentrators, and lighting, as any interruption can prove fatal. Doctors in Bow Government Hospital, particularly Dr. Niall Conroy, encountered significant challenges due to the frequent power cuts that left sick newborns vulnerable. The dire situation demanded a sustainable power solution to effectively provide essential care and protect the lives of these at-risk infants.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
