By George M.O. Williams
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called on Sierra Leone to increase domestic investment in science and research, warning that stronger science-driven reforms are essential to sustain health gains and counter misinformation.
Speaking during the commemoration of World Health Day 2026 and WHO’s 78th anniversary, the Country Representative, Dr. George Ameh, urged government and development partners to expand local research capacity and strengthen collaboration across sectors under the One Health Approach. This year’s theme, “Together for Health: Stand with Science,” underscores the role of evidence-based solutions in saving lives and building resilience.
Dr. Ameh emphasized that science must not remain confined to laboratories but should reach villages, schools, hospitals, farms, markets, and households. He stressed that empowering citizens with accurate, accessible, and culturally relevant health information is vital to combat misinformation and rebuild public trust in science.
Reflecting on Sierra Leone’s progress, Dr. Ameh noted significant improvements in maternal and child health over the past two decades. Maternal mortality has declined by 74 percent — from 1,682 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2000 to 354 in 2023 — while under-five mortality fell by 55 percent, from 225 to 94 deaths per 1,000 live births.
“These achievements reflect sustained investments in policy reform, service delivery, data systems, and frontline health workers, with WHO and partners providing technical support throughout,” he said.
Child health outcomes have also improved through expanded immunization, malaria prevention programs, better nutrition, and strengthened primary healthcare services. A major milestone was achieved in 2024 with the rollout of more than 550,000 doses of the malaria vaccine across 15 districts, protecting children under five from one of the country’s leading causes of death.
Dr. Ameh recalled that Sierra Leone recorded one of the highest declines in malaria deaths in West Africa in 2016, demonstrating the effectiveness of science-led interventions. He urged communities, policymakers, and institutions to work together to ensure that evidence-based health solutions reach every household.
“Citizens must be empowered with accurate, accessible, and culturally relevant health information to combat misinformation and strengthen trust in science,” he concluded.