Health Systems Strengthening

Sierra Leone’s health system faces a wide range of urgent challenges, from maternal and child health to a rise in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). While the maternal mortality ratio has declined significantly in recent years, it remains high at 354 deaths per 100,000 live births — among the highest in the world. An estimated 85,000 people live with epilepsy, yet 80–85% go untreated. Meanwhile, conditions like hypertension and diabetes are accelerating rapidly, with NCDs now accounting for roughly 34.5% of all deaths nationwide. These overlapping burdens place enormous strain on a system already stretched to meet basic needs.

To address these challenges, HIRF’s Health Systems Strengthening efforts improve healthcare delivery in Sierra Leone by supplying essential medicines, equipment, and medical supplies to over 40 facilities, while building the capacity of nurses and midwives to manage emergencies effectively — with more than 250 nurses and midwives trained since 2024. HIRF also supports the growing challenge of NCDs through the provision of medicines and community outreach aimed at improving awareness, with a particular focus on epilepsy.