Sierra Leone Commemorates World Health Day 2025 with Focus on Maternal Health
Sierra Leone commemorated World Health Day 2025, focusing on reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” Notable speakers praised the government’s efforts, highlighting a 78% decrease in maternal mortality since 2000. Initiatives will include community outreach, health worker training, and blood mobilization to enhance maternal health services throughout the year.
On April 7, 2025, Sierra Leone commemorated World Health Day under the theme, “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” This event, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health, aimed to enhance partnerships and ensure that every woman and newborn survives and thrives, addressing preventable maternal and newborn deaths.
The gathering included senior officials from the Ministry of Health, health development partners, and representatives from the press. The focus was to catalyze action to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to launch a year-long Maternal and Newborn Health Campaign. This campaign specifically revolves around the sub-theme: “Tackling the Public Health Emergency of Preventable Maternal and Child Mortality.”
Dr. George Ameh, WHO Country Representative, commended the Government of Sierra Leone for significant progress made in reducing maternal and newborn mortality, highlighting that this year’s World Health Day also marks the 77th anniversary of WHO. He noted that since 2000, maternal mortality in Sierra Leone has decreased by 78% due to governmental initiatives, including the 2019 declaration of maternal and newborn deaths as a national emergency.
Dr. Ameh emphasized the pressing need to sustain and accelerate efforts, stating, “Every dollar invested in maternal and newborn health delivers life-saving returns: healthier families, stronger societies, and economic resilience.”
Dr. Austin Demby presented recent data from the UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group, which indicates a reduction in maternal mortality rates in Sierra Leone from 443 to 354 per 100,000 live births from 2020 to 2023. He expressed optimism that the country is on track to achieve a target of under 300 maternal deaths per 100,000 by 2025.
Highlighting the significance of the year’s theme, Dr. Demby noted that a mother’s and child’s health at the beginning of life is foundational for a prosperous future. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to end preventable deaths and mentioned the establishment of an Incident Management System to ensure accountability in reporting maternal and child fatalities.
This system aims to take timely actions to prevent similar incidents and underscores the importance of transparency in healthcare. Dr. Demby also introduced the Prestrack mechanism, a transformative step designed to monitor pregnancies and ensure better maternal health outcomes.
The campaign will comprise various initiatives, including community outreach, health worker training, policy advocacy, and service delivery enhancements to strengthen health systems. Additionally, in collaboration with the Sierra Leone Blood Bank, essential blood mobilization efforts will be made to support mothers in emergency situations.
The commemoration of World Health Day in Sierra Leone reflects the significant strides made in maternal and newborn health. With a strong commitment from the government and collaboration with WHO and partners, the country is focused on reducing preventable maternal and child deaths. Continued investments and community engagement are essential to ensure the sustainability of these health improvements, leading to healthier generations in the future.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
