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Sierra Leone has marked a major step forward in maternal and child health care with the graduation of 30 nurses trained in specialized neonatal care, as the country reports significant improvements in newborn survival.
The graduates, who received Post-Basic Certificates in Neonatal Nursing, represent the third cohort of the program. An additional 25 nurses were officially unveiled as a new intake during the ceremony held on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
The initiative is led by the Ministry of Health Sierra Leone in partnership with UNICEF Sierra Leone, with funding support from the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office.
Delivering the keynote address, Deputy Minister of Health I, Professor Dr. Charles Senessie, said the milestone goes beyond academic achievement.
“This is not just a graduation of nurses, but it is about lives,” he said. “Sierra Leone is committed to ending preventable newborn and child deaths. Every dollar invested must translate into improved service delivery and measurable results for mothers, newborns, and children.”
According to Professor Senessie, sustained government leadership and careful use of resources have contributed to a dramatic turnaround in neonatal outcomes. He noted that where premature babies once had little chance of survival due to limited equipment and trained personnel, survival rates have now risen to over 90 percent.
“Health workers remain a centrepiece to this accomplishment,” he said. “They provide safe delivery and newborn care, manage complications and support families. Their role is critical.”
Health authorities say the expanded training program is helping to close longstanding gaps in neonatal care across the country’s health system.
In a message to the graduates, the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer urged them to uphold high standards as they begin service.
“You must go forward and serve with excellence, compassion and professionalism. Together, we can achieve Zero Preventable Maternal and Child Deaths and improve quality of care for all,” the officer said.
The program aligns with national health priorities championed by the Minister of Health, Austin Demby, and supported by international partners including the World Health Organization.
Officials say the continued investment in specialized nursing skills is expected to further strengthen Sierra Leone’s efforts to reduce maternal and newborn mortality and improve overall health outcomes nationwide.
