Sierra Leone Commemorates World Health Day 2025: A Focus on Maternal and Newborn Health

Sierra Leone commemorated World Health Day 2025 with the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures,” focusing on reducing preventable maternal and newborn deaths. Key stakeholders, including WHO and government officials, emphasized the progress made in maternal health and the urgency of further action. A year-long campaign was launched that promotes targeted interventions and health service improvements.

On April 7, 2025, Sierra Leone, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and its Ministry of Health, commemorated World Health Day under the theme “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures.” This initiative aims to enhance partnerships and systems to ensure the survival and thriving of every woman and newborn.

The gathering included members of the press, health stakeholders, and senior officials from the Ministry of Health, all focused on accelerating efforts to reduce preventable maternal and newborn fatalities. The event inaugurated a year-long Maternal and Newborn Health Campaign themed “Tackling the Public Health Emergency of Preventable Maternal and Child Mortality.”

Dr. George Ameh, WHO Country Representative, praised the Government for its significant achievements in reducing maternal and newborn deaths. “Today marks WHO’s 77th anniversary and emphasizes our joint commitment to eradicating preventable maternal and newborn deaths. The government’s declaration of a national emergency regarding maternal and newborn deaths in 2019 has fostered a remarkable 78% reduction in maternal mortality since 2000,” he noted.

He emphasized the importance of continued investment in maternal and newborn health, stating, “Every dollar invested delivers life-saving returns: healthier families, stronger societies, and economic resilience.”

Dr. Austin Demby presented UN estimates showing a reduction of maternal mortality in Sierra Leone from 443 to 354 per 100,000 live births between 2020 and 2023. This positions Sierra Leone on a path to achieving the goal of reducing maternal mortality to under 300 by 2025.

In his speech, Dr. Demby highlighted the importance of the theme, aligning with the Person-Centered Life Stages Approach, which posits that health in early life establishes a foundation for future prosperity. The government is dedicated to addressing preventable maternal and child deaths. He remarked, “Sierra Leone has made commendable progress, but we must do more to uphold and expand our achievements.”

Dr. Demby also mentioned the implementation of the Prestrack mechanism for tracking pregnancies, noting this initiative as a significant advancement in accountability. He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting WHO and partners in providing health services throughout Sierra Leone.

The yearlong campaign will include various targeted interventions, such as community outreach, health worker training, advocacy, and enhancements in service delivery. Furthermore, WHO has partnered with the Sierra Leone Blood Bank to mobilize blood donations as a critical resource for mothers in emergencies and similar high-risk groups.

In conclusion, Sierra Leone’s observance of World Health Day 2025 underscores the nation’s commitment to improving maternal and newborn health. Initiatives led by the Government, in conjunction with WHO, aim to build upon significant advances in reducing mortality rates. Continued investment, accountability measures, and collaborative efforts will be pivotal in ensuring a healthier future for all mothers and newborns in Sierra Leone.

Original Source: www.afro.who.int