Hon. Vice President Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving healthcare across Sierra Leone. He addressed key health challenges at the 47th Annual General and Scientific Meeting of the Medical and Dental Association (MDA) at the Bank Complex Hall in Freetown. He outlined ongoing reforms to strengthen the healthcare sector.
Dr. Jalloh praised the dedication of healthcare professionals and acknowledged their role in advancing the country’s medical services. Reflecting on his 2019 visit to the outskirts of Freetown, he highlighted the government’s initiatives to modernise healthcare infrastructure, including solar-powered systems and digital laboratories to enhance accessibility in underserved regions.
The Vice President also provided updates on maternal mortality reduction efforts, noting a decrease from 1,165 deaths in 2013 to 717 in 2019 and further down to 443 in 2020. The government aims to bring this number below double digits by 2025. Additionally, he emphasised the role of nutrition in maternal and child health, revealing that a dedicated budget has been established to ensure pregnant women and children receive adequate nourishment. He also called for greater collaboration between the government and healthcare professionals to expand specialist training and improve working conditions.
MDA President Calls for Improved Working Conditions and Legal Reforms
Dr. Freddie Coker, President of the Medical and Dental Association, stressed the importance of collaboration and commitment to improving Sierra Leone’s healthcare system. He thanked the Vice President, the Ministry of Health, sponsors, and attendees for their continued support.
Acknowledging challenges such as industrial actions and complex health issues, Dr Coker highlighted significant progress in healthcare infrastructure and medical staff welfare. He called for better working conditions for young doctors, expansion of health services for noncommunicable diseases, and urgent legal reforms in reproductive health. He urged healthcare professionals to work together to achieve universal healthcare access.
Experts Highlight Tetanus and Healthcare Access Challenges
Prof. J.B.W. Russell, who chaired the event, emphasised the need for multi-sectoral collaboration to improve access to tetanus care, noting that the preventable disease remains a significant threat to mothers and newborns in Sierra Leone.
Deputy Minister of Health I, Dr. Charles Senessie, reiterated the government's commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery systems, ensuring services reach remote communities. He emphasised teamwork and cross-sector collaboration as essential to improving health outcomes nationwide.
Commitment to a Resilient Healthcare System
The meeting concluded with health professionals and government officials reaffirming their dedication to enhancing Sierra Leone’s healthcare infrastructure. With optimism and collaboration at the forefront, stakeholders pledged to work towards a more resilient and accessible healthcare system for all citizens.
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