By: Joseph Momoh, Daily Scope Reporter
Sierra Leone has recorded a dramatic decline in maternal mortality and remains Ebola-free, even as the Ministry of Health boosts national preparedness in response to an outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Deputy Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mustapha Kabba told residents at the Lungi Civic Day Townhall on May 19, 2026, that the country’s response systems are active and being updated in coordination with the World Health Organization and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“While Sierra Leone remains Ebola-free, we are not waiting,” Dr. Kabba said. “Our readiness and response plans are in place to prevent any spillover.”
The briefing also spotlighted major gains in maternal and child health under President Julius Maada Bio’s 300 Days of Activism campaign, launched in March 2026. The initiative aims to eliminate preventable maternal and child deaths and reach every child who has never received a routine vaccine.
According to Ministry of Health figures, maternal mortality has fallen from 1,682 deaths per 100,000 live births to 354 per 100,000. Dr. Kabba credited the drop to expanded infrastructure, improved emergency care, and stronger community outreach.
Before COVID-19, Sierra Leone had a single oxygen plant. Today, 12 plants supply free oxygen to public hospitals nationwide. Major facilities have also been equipped with solar power, upgraded sanitation, and improved hygiene standards, particularly in rural districts.
The 300 Days of Activism campaign uses a multisectoral, community-led model to push antenatal care, childhood immunization, and road upgrades that improve access to health facilities. Monitoring structures at the ministry and district levels are tracking progress and accountability.
Early results show the strategy is working. In the first 70 days, maternal deaths fell sharply compared to the same period last year. “At this point in 2025, we had recorded about 80 maternal deaths. The current figure is significantly lower,” Dr. Kabba said.
The campaign continues to focus on rapid service delivery, local engagement, and data-driven interventions as Sierra Leone works to close gaps in rural healthcare and move toward zero preventable deaths.
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