On April 7, 2025, Sierra Leone commemorated World Health Day with WHO, highlighting efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality rates. The government has made substantial progress, including a 78% decrease in maternal mortality since 2000. The year-long campaign focuses on improving health systems and partnerships to ensure every woman and newborn’s survival and well-being.
On April 7, 2025, Sierra Leone commemorated World Health Day together with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” This initiative called for enhanced partnerships and systems to ensure the survival and well-being of every woman and newborn, focusing on reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths in the country. The event served as the official kickoff for a year-long Maternal and Newborn Health Campaign, specifically targeting the public health crisis surrounding preventable maternal and child mortality.
Dr. George Ameh, the WHO Country Representative, acknowledged the significant progress Sierra Leone has made in decreasing maternal and newborn mortality rates. He highlighted the government’s commitment, including declaring maternal and newborn deaths a national emergency in 2019, which has led to a 78% decline in maternal mortality rates since 2000. “The World Health Day marks WHO’s 77th anniversary and underscores our collective resolve to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths,” stated Dr. Ameh.
Dr. Austin Demby presented the latest findings from the UN Maternal Mortality Estimation Inter-Agency Group, revealing a reduction in maternal mortality from 443 to 354 per 100,000 live births between 2020 and 2023. He stressed the essential nature of a mother’s and child’s health in establishing a prosperous future, underscoring the government’s ongoing commitment to eliminate preventable maternal and child deaths.
Dr. Demby emphasized the need for continued effort to maintain and expand upon past achievements through structured responses to maternal and child mortality supported by WHO and partners. He noted the introduction of the Prestrack mechanism, which aims to monitor every pregnancy comprehensively. This initiative is indicative of a commitment to ensuring accountability to the women and children of Sierra Leone.
As part of this campaign, WHO and its partners will launch various targeted interventions throughout the year, ranging from training health workers to advocacy for policy improvements. Additionally, there will be a collaboration with the Sierra Leone Blood Bank to ensure the provision of blood for emergency situations among mothers and other vulnerable populations.
In summary, Sierra Leone’s observance of World Health Day 2025 marks a significant commitment to improving maternal and newborn health. With the government and WHO collaboratively addressing health challenges, the reduction in maternal mortality rates demonstrates progress towards achieving sustainable health outcomes. Continued efforts and targeted interventions are essential to ensure that every woman and newborn receives the care they deserve, thus securing a healthier and more prosperous future for the nation.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
