By Ibrahim S. Bangura
Freetown, Sierra Leone – May 13, 2025: A new initiative aimed at tackling malnutrition, strengthening health services, and improving water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) in Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable communities has been officially launched. The Emergency Nutrition, Health, and WASH Response Project, a collaborative effort between the Government of Japan, UNICEF, and the Government of Sierra Leone, will run from March 2025 to February 2026.
The launch event, held at the Ministry of Health Conference Hall in Freetown, was attended by key stakeholders, including Japan’s Ambassador to Sierra Leone and Ghana, His Excellency Hiroshi Yashimoto, and UNICEF Representative Rudolf Schwenk.
A Commitment to Nutrition and Health
Ambassador Yashimoto emphasized Japan’s dedication to improving nutrition and health outcomes for Sierra Leone’s children and mothers. “We are pleased to launch this new project, which will address malnutrition in five nutrition-insecure districts, focusing on children under five and lactating mothers,” he stated. “Proper nutrition is essential for a child’s development and for ensuring a brighter future.”
UNICEF Representative Rudolf Schwenk lauded Japan’s longstanding commitment, noting that since 2009, Japan has contributed over $20 million to various health and nutrition programs in Sierra Leone. “This partnership has saved lives and strengthened local systems, reaching nearly 750,000 people,” he said.
Integrating WASH and Climate Resilience
The new project expands its scope beyond nutrition to integrate WASH and climate resilience. Aminata Shamit Koroma, Director of Food and Nutrition, reported significant progress in addressing malnutrition, citing a reduction in stunting rates and improvements in breastfeeding practices. Despite these gains, challenges remain, particularly in achieving minimum dietary diversity for children.
UNICEF Nutrition Specialist Brenda K. Muwaga outlined the project’s components, which include preventative interventions, increased access to climate-resilient WASH facilities, and strengthened health and supply systems. The initiative targets 134,000 community members, with an emphasis on enhancing treatment, prevention, and sustainability.
Building a Healthier Future
The Government of Japan, Sierra Leone, and UNICEF remain committed to expanding access to essential nutrition and health services while ensuring communities receive sustainable WASH interventions. As Sierra Leone grapples with rising food insecurity and economic challenges, collaborative efforts like these offer hope for improved health and nutrition outcomes.
The Emergency Nutrition, Health, and WASH Response Project represents a significant step forward in ensuring every child in Sierra Leone has the opportunity to survive, grow, and thrive.