By: Mohamed Sahr
The Ministry of Health has launched a presidential-led “300 Days of Activism” campaign aimed at drastically reducing maternal and child mortality in Sierra Leone. The initiative was unveiled at a high-profile ceremony by the leadership of the Ministry of Health, Chief Minister, and development partners on Monday 2nd March 2026 at the Miatta Conference Hall.
The campaign is anchored on three ambitious targets referred to as the “Triple Zero” goals including zero preventable maternal deaths, zero preventable child deaths and zero zero-dose children (children who have not received any routine vaccinations)
Dr. Demby described the launch as a remarkable day for maternal and child health in Sierra Leone. He emphasized that the bold national aspiration seeks to eliminate preventable maternal and child deaths and ensure that every child receives routine immunization within 300 days.
During this period, the government plans to intensify nationwide health interventions, including increased procurement and availability of essential drugs and medical equipment, rapid improvements in ambulance services, and expanded vaccine availability for every child.
“With an already impressive 70 percent reduction in maternal mortality, over 90 percent vaccination coverage among children, and significant investment in modern healthcare infrastructure, this life-saving campaign will accelerate our efforts to ensure that every pregnancy matters, and every child’s life is protected,” Dr. Demby stated.
According to ministry officials, the 300-day timeline is designed to mobilize political commitment, financial resources, and community action to accelerate proven health interventions. These include improved access to antenatal care, increased availability of skilled birth attendants, strengthened emergency obstetric and neonatal services, expanded routine immunization coverage, intensified outreach to underserved communities, catch-up vaccination campaigns, strengthened supply chains for essential medicines and vaccines, rapid training for frontline health workers and public awareness campaigns to promote timely healthcare-seeking behaviour
Health ministry representatives described the initiative as both symbolic and practical. Symbolically, it demonstrates strong presidential commitment to maternal and child health. Practically, it focuses on short-term, measurable actions to close critical service gaps.
Public health experts have welcomed the focused timeline but cautioned that lasting impact will depend on sustained implementation beyond the campaign period. One analyst noted that while a 300-day sprint can catalyze progress, long-term success will require embedding improvements into the broader health system to ensure sustainability.
Observers have also highlighted the importance of reliable data systems to identify zero-dose populations, functional emergency referral pathways for obstetric complications, and adequate support for community health workers.
Funding and logistics remain central to the initiative’s success. The Ministry of Health plans to leverage government funding, donor partnerships, and collaboration with local stakeholders to finance outreach programs and medical supplies. Progress will be monitored using short-term performance indicators, including facility-based delivery rates, vaccination coverage for key antigens, and maternal and neonatal case fatality rates.
Chief Minister Sengeh described the campaign as a national call to action, stressing that preventable deaths can be significantly reduced through strong political will, coordinated resources, and active community participation.
He mentioned that if effectively implemented, the “300 Days of Activism” could mark a significant milestone in Sierra Leone’s efforts to achieve global maternal and child survival targets and ensure that no mother or child dies from preventable causes.
