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In a groundbreaking milestone for neonatal health, Sierra Leone’s Special Care Baby Units (SCBUs) have recorded an average 90% national survival rate for admitted infants—marking the first time since 2017 that such a high rate has been achieved.
This remarkable progress is the result of targeted investments in medical equipment, staff training, and innovative care practices.
The announcement was made at a conference held at the Ministry of Health’s conference hall in Youyi Building, Freetown, on Monday, August 11th, 2025.
“We are ambitious and we are aiming for 100% across all regions of Sierra Leone,” Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, declared with a confident smile. “This achievement reflects our commitment to improving neonatal outcomes and saving more lives.”
This success aligns closely with Sustainable Development Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being, specifically target 3.2, which seeks to end preventable deaths of newborns and children under five.
Improving neonatal survival directly contributes to reducing child mortality and fostering healthier futures for Sierra Leone’s children.
Minister Demby recounted that, historically, infants born weighing under 1 kilogram faced a near-certain death rate. However, he expressed pride that the trajectory has shifted dramatically—many towns now boast survival rates between 90% and 98% for babies admitted to the SCBUs.
He attributed this achievement to multiple factors, including the effective utilization of medical technology, well-trained healthcare personnel, and a dedicated team with the right attitude. “Our staff are motivated, skilled, and committed to providing the best care possible,” he emphasized. “Equally important is the active participation of mothers and families, who ensure they utilize these services and help monitor their infants’ progress.”
Minister Demby also highlighted ongoing efforts to sustain and improve this progress. “It is everyone’s responsibility—government, healthcare providers, communities, and partners—to maintain this momentum,” he said.
He announced plans to enhance health financing and expand health insurance schemes to support neonatal care further, stating, “We are exploring innovative ways to generate funds that will sustain and scale this success.”
Regional data shows impressive survival rates: Kambia at 98%, Koidu at 95%, Bonthe at 94%, Kabala at 94%, Kailahun at 94%, Bo at 93%, Moyamba at 93%, Kingharman at 93%, Kenema at 92%, Jui at 91%, with the national average at 90%. Other districts include Mattru UBC at 89%, Port Loko at 88%, Ola During at 87%, Makeni at 85%, Pujehun at 84%, and JMB-PCE at 74%.
Addressing concerns over disparities, Minister Demby emphasized that neonatal survival depends on individual circumstances and care quality rather than solely on the facilities themselves. “Every baby is unique, and our focus remains on providing personalized, quality care,” he affirmed.
He concluded by expressing gratitude to President Bio for his visionary leadership in healthcare, as well as to international partners and the dedicated mothers who utilize these vital services. “This achievement belongs to all of us, and we are committed to building on this momentum to save even more lives,” he said.
