Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, has officially launched the National Health Development Partners Retreat 2026, following the commencement of the President-led 300 Days of Activism to improve maternal and child health in Sierra Leone.

The retreat provides a platform to review individual partner projects and foster an environment that supports the broader health sector.

In his keynote address, Dr. Demby noted that health sector reform in Sierra Leone is entering a new phase—one that is more deliberate, integrated, accountable, and results-focused. He urged development partners to align their interventions with the ongoing 300 Days of Activism, a strategic plan designed to unify the sector under “one plan, one budget, and one monitoring and evaluation framework,” ensuring that resources, programs, and outcomes are coordinated.

“As health development partners, we need to reflect honestly on how we are aligned with government priorities, how effectively our organizations are working together, and whether our traditional ways of working fit the current global realities,” said Dr. George Ameh, Chairman of the Health Development Partners.

Dr. Demby further stated that since the launch of the 300 Days of Activism, the initiative has quickly moved from national-level planning to frontline implementation across the country.

“This strong commitment reflects the country’s determination to accelerate progress where it matters most: the survival and well-being of women and children,” he added.