The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with Helen Keller International and the Bo District Health Management Team (DHMT), hosted a high-level meeting on Friday to launch a major health initiative aimed at improving maternal and child health in Sierra Leone.

The meeting marked the introduction of Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation (MMS) for pregnant women, a shift from the traditional Iron Folate (IFA) supplements, which offer only two micronutrients.

The event brought together a wide range of local leaders, including Paramount Chiefs, religious figures, councilors, and members of Facility Management Committees, to discuss the benefits of MMS. The supplement, which provides 15 essential micronutrients, is expected to significantly improve pregnancy outcomes, addressing issues such as infant mortality, stillbirths, and pre-term births.

Salamatu Massaquoi, District Nutritionist for Bo DHMT, outlined the potential health impacts of MMS during her presentation. She noted that consistent MMS use could reduce infant mortality by 29% within the first six months of life for anemic mothers and lower the risk of stillbirth by up to 26%. Additionally, the supplement could reduce the risks of pre-term births by 7% and improve outcomes for underweight pregnant women, lowering health risks by 16%.

Mohamed Boima Massaquoi, Bo District’s Social Mobilization and Principal Health Education Officer, called for community leaders to advocate for the adoption of MMS and promote regular health facility visits. He emphasized the importance of breaking down barriers to access and ensuring that local health centers are stocked with MMS.

Rianatu Bangura, Health Education Program Supervisor at the Ministry of Health, urged participants to take an active role in advancing maternal health efforts, highlighting the transition to MMS as key to improving pregnancy outcomes.

Sandra Rogers, Program Assistant for Helen Keller International, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting communities in tackling malnutrition and enhancing maternal and child health. She encouraged local leaders to fully embrace the MMS initiative, underscoring its broader impact on community well-being.

The meeting concluded with stakeholders expressing unanimous support for the MMS program and pledging their efforts to promote its adoption across Bo District.