Health Ministry Probes Maternal Deaths

By Sallieu S. Kanu

Bo, Sierra Leone – June 15, 2026: The Ministry of Health has dispatched a high-level delegation to investigate the recent surge in maternal deaths at Bo Government Hospital, as part of the first 100 days of the ongoing 300 Days of Activism campaign.

Led by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sartie Kenneh, the mission is examining the circumstances surrounding the reported deaths, identifying systemic gaps, and reviewing healthcare delivery practices that may be affecting maternal outcomes.

Key Areas of Review

The delegation engaged hospital management and frontline staff to assess:

  • Clinical practices and adherence to medical protocols.
  • Referral systems and emergency response mechanisms.
  • Emergency obstetric care services.
  • Availability of essential resources including drugs, equipment, and skilled personnel.

Guiding Policy

The findings will inform immediate and long-term interventions to strengthen maternal healthcare services nationwide. The effort is aligned with the Ministry’s Triple Zero goals:

  • Zero Preventable Maternal Deaths
  • Zero Preventable Child Deaths
  • Zero Dose Children

Minister’s Statement

Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby reaffirmed government’s commitment to maternal health, stressing that no mother should die giving life. “We remain committed to ensuring every mother has access to quality, timely, and life-saving healthcare services across the country,” he said.

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