Triple Zero Campaign Records 31% Drop in Maternal Deaths

Sierra Leone has reported a 31% reduction in maternal deaths during the first 200 days of its 300 Days of Activism for the Triple Zero Campaign, with the Ministry of Health calling for sustained financing and political support to maintain the progress.

The figures were presented during Sierra Leone’s engagement on maternal and child health at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby stressed the importance of continued support from global partners.

The Triple Zero Campaign aims to achieve zero preventable maternal deaths, zero preventable child deaths and zero zero-dose children.

Speaking on behalf of President Julius Maada Bio, Chief Minister Dr. David Sengeh reaffirmed the government’s commitment to the campaign, describing it as a national priority. He also highlighted the importance of real-time data in monitoring progress and responding to the needs of mothers, newborns and children.

More than 200 days into the campaign, Sierra Leone also reported an 11% decline in infant deaths compared with the same period last year and said it had surpassed its vaccination target by nearly 105%.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Mustapha Kabba presented the data underpinning the reported progress, while Africa CDC Director General Dr. Jean Kaseya described the 300 Days of Activism as a milestone and highlighted Sierra Leone’s efforts in improving maternal and child health outcomes.

Demby said sustainable financing, political commitment, stronger financial accountability and increased community engagement would be critical to sustaining the gains. He also stressed the importance of ensuring that patients receive quality healthcare in an environment where care is dignified, compassionate and transformative.

With the 300 Days of Activism ongoing, health authorities are focused on sustaining the reported gains and strengthening efforts to achieve the country’s Triple Zero targets.