MoH Kicks Off 300 Days Activism Campaign in Kenema to Improve Maternal Health

The Ministry of Health Sierra Leone (MoH), through the Kenema District Health Management Team (DHMT), has officially launched the 300 Days Activism campaign in Kenema as part of nationwide efforts to strengthen maternal and newborn health outcomes across Sierra Leone.

The initiative, which will run continuously for 300 days, is designed to promote sustained community engagement rather than short-term sensitization drives. Health authorities say the long-duration approach will ensure consistent public education and measurable behavioral change at both household and community levels.

The campaign places strong emphasis on early antenatal care attendance, safe and facility-based deliveries, postnatal care, and newborn survival. It also prioritizes preventing maternal deaths and strengthening referral systems to ensure timely medical intervention for pregnant women facing complications.

Speaking during the launch, the District Medical Officer, Dr. Grant, outlined key priorities of the campaign, stressing the need for pregnant women to begin antenatal visits early and consistently seek professional care throughout pregnancy and childbirth.

He noted that improving maternal health requires a coordinated effort between health facilities, families, and community stakeholders.

The launch event drew participation from community leaders, women’s groups, youth representatives, members of the fourth estate, and frontline health workers. Participants pledged their commitment to expanding outreach efforts, particularly in hard-to-reach communities where access to healthcare services remains limited.

Health officials believe that community ownership will be central to the campaign’s success, as local structures play a critical role in influencing attitudes toward health-seeking behaviors and discouraging harmful traditional practices.

The 300 Days Activism campaign aligns with Sierra Leone’s broader national health strategies aimed at reducing maternal and neonatal mortality. By improving access to quality care and promoting timely medical attention, the initiative seeks to contribute meaningfully to safer pregnancies and childbirths nationwide.

DHMT Communications Officer Mr. Suma expressed confidence that sustained advocacy, combined with strong community participation, will lead to tangible improvements in maternal and newborn health indicators across Kenema District.

With the campaign now underway, health authorities remain optimistic that the 300-day sustained approach will foster lasting change and significantly improve maternal health outcomes in the district.