By Sallieu S. Kanu
Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 2, 2025 The Chief Executive Officer of GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, Dr. Sania Nishtar, led a high-level delegation to Presidential Lodge, Hill Station, Freetown, where she paid a courtesy call on His Excellency President Dr. Julius Maada Bio ahead of the commemoration of 2025 World Immunization Week.
The visit reaffirmed GAVI’s commitment to strengthening Sierra Leone’s immunization systems and improving child health across the country.
Acknowledging Sierra Leone’s Immunization Progress
Welcoming the delegation, Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, expressed gratitude to President Bio for his leadership in advancing healthcare initiatives. He noted that hosting this year’s World Immunization Week in Freetown underscores Sierra Leone’s remarkable contributions to immunization efforts in Africa.
Dr. Sania Nishtar commended President Bio and First Lady Dr. Fatima Bio for championing vaccination and child health. She highlighted Sierra Leone’s significant achievements in immunizing children, stating that the country has outperformed some larger nations due to strong political will and strategic partnerships.
> “I am proud of what Sierra Leone has accomplished. Your Excellency, under your leadership, Sierra Leone is on the world stage when it comes to immunization. Despite challenges posed by Ebola and COVID-19 outbreaks, you emerged more resilient. On behalf of GAVI, I thank you for your unwavering commitment,” Dr. Nishtar stated.
She reaffirmed GAVI’s long-term partnership with Sierra Leone, assuring continued support despite global challenges.
> “Even in these uncertain times, we remain committed to supporting your government and the people of Sierra Leone,” she added.
AU Commends Sierra Leone’s Leadership in Immunization
Representing the African Union (AU), Professor Julio Rakotonitina, Director for Health and Humanitarian Affairs, praised President Bio’s leadership in advancing continental immunization strategies. He noted that Sierra Leone’s implementation of the Addis Ababa Declaration on Immunization—with a focus on political engagement and best practices—has significantly contributed to Africa’s health development goals.
Professor Rakotonitina further recognized President Bio’s broader contributions to the AU, stating that Sierra Leone’s health initiatives continue to yield meaningful gains celebrated across the continent.
President Bio’s Commitment to Strengthening Healthcare
In his remarks, President Bio warmly welcomed Dr. Nishtar and her delegation, expressing deep appreciation for GAVI’s continuous support in improving healthcare services in Sierra Leone.
> “As a nation, we deeply value our partnership with GAVI. Development cannot be achieved without a strong and inclusive healthcare system, from infancy to old age,” President Bio remarked.
He emphasized that his vision for human capital development extends beyond immunization to education, agriculture, gender equity, and youth empowerment.
> “This is not just a political statement; it is a commitment rooted in our belief in the dignity and worth of every Sierra Leonean,” he added.
Strengthening Vaccine Access for Children
Reaffirming his government’s dedication to vaccinating every child, President Bio assured that Sierra Leone will continue expanding immunization coverage to safeguard public health.
As World Immunization Week 2025 kicks off in Freetown, Sierra Leone’s collaboration with GAVI, the AU, and global health organizations reinforces the country’s commitment to improving healthcare access, disease prevention, and long-term development.