On International Women’s Day, we honor the strength, leadership, and resilience of women across Sierra Leone. From classrooms to clinics, farmlands to community networks, women continue to drive progress and possibility for our nation.
At Healey International Relief Foundation, we are proud to partner with communities, health workers, government agencies, and women‑led organizations to strengthen maternal and newborn care, expand economic opportunities for women farmers, and promote women’s empowerment. We are supporting three women-led organization–Uman Tok, Berny’s Hope, and Every Woman Sierra Leone—to strengthen their organizational capacity so that their critical work can grow and serve their communities effectively.
We remain committed to addressing often overlooked areas of women’s health, including perinatal mental health and postpartum depression—ensuring women feel seen, supported, and empowered. When women have access to knowledge, care, and opportunity, entire families and communities thrive.
This day also calls us to confront the challenges that persist. Too many girls remain vulnerable to sexual violence, with consequences that can alter the course of their lives—early pregnancy, health risks, disrupted education, and lasting emotional trauma. Protecting girls is not only a matter of justice; it is essential to strengthening maternal and child health.
As Sierra Leone launches its 300 Days of Activism on Maternal and Child Health, we have a powerful opportunity to deepen collaboration across government, civil society, health systems, faith leaders, and communities. Together, we can prevent violence, support survivors, and build stronger protective systems so every girl grows up safe, healthy, and able to reach her full potential.
A safe girl today is indeed a healthy woman tomorrow.
