By: Saidu Jalloh
The Minister of Gender and Children’s Affairs has called for intensified efforts to improve newborn survival in Sierra Leone, warning that neonatal mortality remains a major contributor to child deaths across the country.
Speaking at the 2nd Annual Conference of the Pediatric Association of Sierra Leone (PASL), held under the theme “Healthy Starts, Hopeful Futures: Strengthening Newborn Care in Sierra Leone,” the Minister emphasized the urgent need for stronger interventions to prevent newborn deaths and improve maternal and child health outcomes.
She stressed the importance of strengthening antenatal, delivery, and postnatal healthcare services, while identifying child marriage, teenage pregnancy, and harmful social norms as significant factors affecting the health and well-being of mothers and newborns.
According to the Minister, reducing neonatal mortality requires coordinated efforts among government institutions, healthcare providers, development partners, and local communities. She noted that improving access to quality healthcare throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period remains critical to ensuring the survival and well-being of newborns.
The Minister commended PASL for its continued contribution to child health in Sierra Leone, praising the association’s work in professional capacity building, advocacy, research, community outreach, and public awareness campaigns aimed at improving healthcare services for children.
She also acknowledged the dedication of healthcare professionals in providing quality care to newborns and young children, emphasizing that investments in child health are vital to the country’s long-term development and prosperity.
Reaffirming the Government’s commitment to the Presidential 300 Days of Activism on Maternal and Child Health, the Minister stated that authorities remain focused on achieving zero preventable maternal and child deaths nationwide.
She called on all stakeholders to strengthen partnerships, enhance community engagement, and support initiatives that ensure every child is given a healthy start in life.
The annual PASL conference brought together pediatricians, healthcare workers, policymakers, development partners, and child health advocates to discuss strategies for strengthening newborn care and improving child survival rates in Sierra Leone.
Participants used the platform to share experiences, review progress, and explore innovative approaches to addressing challenges in maternal and child healthcare, with a particular focus on reducing preventable newborn deaths.