Strengthening Health Systems, Saving Lives Across Sierra Leone

Last updated:

6 May 2026

Partner/Network:

FCDO, Helen Keller International, Humanity Inclusion, SEND Sierra Leone, Welbodi Partnership, Kings Global Health Partnerships, AISPO

Language:

Working to reduce preventable diseases and deaths among women, adolescent girls, and children through access to universal health care.

Access to quality health care can mean the difference between life and death for women, newborns, and children. Through the Saving Lives in Sierra Leone Phase-3 (SLiSL-3) programme, partners are working with the Ministry of Health and communities to strengthen the systems that protect mothers and children every day, from health facilities and district management teams to the households where health decisions begin.

Over the past three years, the programme has reached 113,816 people, including 74,771 women and girls, with initiatives designed to improve maternal and child health services, strengthen clinical care, and build trust in the health system. Investments in frontline health facilities, district coordination,and community engagement have helped ensure that lifesaving services are available closer to where families live.

Across six districts, the programme has strengthened the foundations of care through innovations such as early detection of pregnancy complications, improved referral systems, stronger supply chains, and community dialogue that encourages families to seek care earlier. Health workers have been equipped with new tools and training, while communities are increasingly informed, engaged, and confident in the services available to them.

These efforts are already translating into meaningful change.1,349 maternal complications have been referred from peripheral facilities to hospitals using CRADLE technology, 528 health facilities have received essential medicines through Last Mile Distribution, and hundreds of community discussions and radio programmes are helping families make informed health decisions.

At its heart, SLiSL-3 is a story of partnership between communities, health workers, district leaders, national institutions, and international partners, all working together to build a health system that is more responsive, more inclusive, and better equipped to save lives.

This magazine highlights key achievements in Phase 3 of the SLiSL Programme.

Saving Lives in Siera Leone Phase III Magazine

(English, PDF, 101 MB)

Published: 6 May 2026

Pregnant mum Safinatu with her aunt and grandmother at the family home. The health centre that Safinatu is attending for her pregnancy is supported by Concern Worldwide. Photo: Darren Vaughan/Concern Worldwide.jpg