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A new health care facility in Bsaba, a village located about 10 miles south of Beirut, is providing essential medical services to thousands of residents who previously lacked reliable access to care. The Bsaba Primary Healthcare Center was established through the efforts of the Loubnaniyoun nongovernmental organization (NGO), with funding from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
The clinic now serves not only the 5,000 inhabitants of Bsaba but also an estimated 55,000 people from nearby communities. It offers specialized clinics in gynecology, pediatrics, family medicine, cardiology, and ear, nose and throat care. The opening comes at a time when Lebanon’s ongoing economic crisis has severely impacted the country’s health care system and left many unable to afford or obtain necessary treatment.
Loubnaniyoun began renovating a vacant municipal building at the end of February 2025 and opened the center on July 24. Physicians donate their time at the clinic, while utility costs are covered by Bsaba Municipality and medications are provided by Lebanon’s Ministry of Health. Loubnaniyoun manages daily operations.
Maroun Akiki, Middle East/Africa North Area self-reliance manager for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said: “The Bsaba Primary Healthcare Center is bringing real hope to the people. I could see it in their eyes at the opening ceremony. I am deeply grateful for the chance to witness the difference the Church has made through cooperation with such an efficient and caring organization.”
Dr. Lara Jreijiri, an obstetrician-gynecologist working at the center since its launch, commented: “I can honestly say that the service provided is comparable to some of the best health care centers in the country, with top equipment. As I hear from the patients I examine, such a center was much needed in the area, as they lacked these services before the opening.”
Patient Lara Fares shared her experience: “From the moment I walked in, I was welcomed with respect and kindness, and the treatment from all the staff was excellent. As for the doctors,” she continued, “they were skilled, competent and gentle as they helped me. I truly felt that I was in safe hands.”
Since opening its doors earlier this year, more than 250 patients have received care at Bsaba Primary Healthcare Center—many seeking urgent treatment after years without access.
Nadine Daher, president of Loubnaniyoun, said community response has been so positive that there are plans to expand services further: “We are working towards including additional specialities, such as urology, mental health, gastroenterology, dental and orthopedics to respond to the needs of the community,” she said.
Daher also acknowledged support from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints: “None of this would have been possible without the generous support of the Church of Jesus Christ. We express our heartfelt gratitude.” A plaque recognizing this contribution hangs inside reception at Bsaba Primary Healthcare Center.
At its opening ceremony earlier this year—a milestone reached despite challenging circumstances—Loubnaniyoun presented a commemorative statue to representatives from The Church as a symbol of their partnership.
Through collaboration between local organizations and international partners like The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, communities like Bsaba are seeing improved access to vital medical care during Lebanon’s ongoing economic difficulties.
