By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – Sierra Leone’s health sector is witnessing remarkable improvements, with key performance indicators showing substantial progress. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Monday, May 12, 2025, in Freetown.
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby highlighted some of the sector’s biggest achievements ahead of the upcoming National Health Summit and Performance Awards. Among the most significant milestones is the rise in the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) index, which increased from 36% to 41%, reflecting broader access to essential healthcare services.
A dramatic reduction in maternal mortality rates also underscores the Ministry’s progress. From 717 deaths per 100,000 live births, the number dropped to 443 and now stands at 354, marking a more than 50% reduction within three years. “This is a major milestone, but we are not stopping here—every life matters,” Dr. Demby emphasized.
Expanding the Healthcare Workforce & Infrastructure
The Minister also noted significant expansion in the healthcare workforce. Over 5,000 health professionals—including doctors, nurses, and midwives—have been recruited, with an additional 3,000 in the hiring process. Medical specialists have also increased, with Sierra Leone successfully training 40 experts in pediatrics, obstetrics, surgery, nursing, and pharmacy—reducing dependence on foreign expertise.
The Ministry has also transitioned 18 hospitals and over 260 health facilities to solar energy, improving sustainable power supply in rural areas. Additionally, immunization coverage remains strong, with Sierra Leone maintaining a vaccine coverage rate above 95% for five consecutive years.
Dr. Demby acknowledged the role of partnerships in advancing healthcare, citing millions of dollars mobilized for health system strengthening projects. Key developments include the establishment of the Julius Maada Bio Paediatric Centre of Excellence and a newly completed Midwifery School in Kenema.
Despite these successes, challenges remain. “While we celebrate these achievements, we are aware of the hurdles—logistical, financial, and infrastructural. That is why this summit is so vital,” Dr. Demby stated.
Upcoming Health Summit & Performance Awards
The National Health Summit and Performance Awards will be held from May 15–17, 2025, at the Bintumani Conference Centre in Freetown under the theme: “Improving Health Outcomes for All: Every Sierra Leonean Life Matters.” The event will bring together stakeholders to assess progress, address challenges, and develop strategic approaches for inclusive healthcare.
Responding to the M-pox Outbreak
With the recent M-pox outbreak declared a public health emergency, Dr. Demby stressed the importance of vigilance. He urged media outlets to disseminate accurate health information, reinforcing the need for public awareness and engagement.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sartie Kenneh underscored the importance of balancing emergency response with essential healthcare services, recalling past lessons from the Ebola outbreak. “No epidemic should force us to abandon routine care. This summit will allow us to strategize how to respond to emergencies like M-pox while maintaining other health priorities,” Dr. Kenneh stated.
Commitment to Transparency & Accountability
Looking ahead, the Ministry is focused on institutionalizing a unified health system—one plan, one budget, one monitoring and evaluation system, and one report—to enhance transparency, coordination, and efficiency.
Johanna Dukhan, Chair of the Health Development Partners (HDP), praised the Ministry’s progress while stressing the importance of equity in healthcare. “No one should be left behind. This summit presents an opportunity to assess progress and align health priorities with financial realities,” Dukhan remarked.
The summit is expected to strengthen partnerships, inspire healthy competition, and advance Sierra Leone’s journey toward Universal Health Coverage (UHC).