By Ibrahim S, Bangura
Freetown, September 2026: Sierra Leone’s flagship Triple Zero campaign is showing measurable progress nearly 200 days into its implementation, with maternal and child deaths significantly reduced and vaccination coverage expanded nationwide.
According to the Ministry of Health, maternal deaths have dropped by 31.1 percent, child deaths by 14.4 percent, and nearly 100 percent of identified zero‑dose children have now been vaccinated compared to the same period last year.
The achievements stem from weekly accountability reviews across all 16 districts, 24‑hour monitoring of every child death, and the dedication of frontline health workers.
Minister’s Statement
Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby described the results as proof that Sierra Leone’s health system is delivering on President Julius Maada Bio’s vision.
“The gains are real — now we must protect them. This campaign is about ensuring no mother dies giving life, no child dies from preventable causes, and no child is left unvaccinated. Our frontline workers are the heroes of this progress, and we are committed to sustaining these results through 2028,” Dr. Demby said.
He added that Sierra Leone will present the campaign’s progress at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) from 20–22 September to build partnerships and secure financing for long‑term sustainability.
Background on the Triple Zero Campaign
Launched in 2026, the Triple Zero campaign sets three ambitious targets:
- Zero preventable maternal deaths
- Zero preventable child deaths
- Zero zero‑dose children (children who have never received routine immunization)
The initiative builds on Sierra Leone’s two decades of progress in reducing maternal and child mortality, supported by reforms such as free healthcare for pregnant women and children under five, expansion of emergency response systems, and solar‑powered hospitals.
The campaign is backed by real‑time digital monitoring, district‑level accountability reviews, and partnerships with global health organizations including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance and the World Health Organization.