Sierra Leone: Improved Midwife Training Facility Opens

Berlin – Aktion Deutschland Hilft is supporting a significant upgrade to midwife training in Sierra Leone, a nation where healthcare for pregnant women and newborns remains a considerable challenge. While maternal mortality has decreased substantially since 2000, Sierra Leone continues to be among the world's most dangerous places for expectant mothers.

A critical factor in reducing maternal deaths is the proportion of births attended by qualified healthcare personnel. However, Sierra Leone faces a severe shortage of midwives. According to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the country has only 1,579 midwives, less than half of the World Health Organization's (WHO) estimated need of 3,000.

A new skills laboratory has now been officially opened in Bo, the country's third-largest city. Supported by action medeor, an organization within the Aktion Deutschland Hilft alliance, and its partner Caritas Bo, the enhanced facility will allow trainees to practice theoretical knowledge under realistic conditions before working with patients. This practical preparation is crucial, especially in rural areas where pregnancies often pose significant health risks and skilled personnel are frequently scarce.

The midwifery school in Bo, established in 2017, has become a vital component of the nation's healthcare system. Since 2020, it has been state-run, training approximately 50 midwives annually, representing about 30 percent of all midwifery students in the country. Despite its importance, the school, like Sierra Leone's entire education system, suffers from chronic underfunding. However, with donor support, renovations, coverage of training costs, and the provision of protective equipment will substantially improve learning and safety conditions.

In the long term, this improved training aims to further reduce maternal and infant mortality. The increased number of trained professionals is expected to enhance maternal and child healthcare access for an estimated 8,940 women and their children in Sierra Leone's Southern Province. Aktion Deutschland Hilft continues to fundraise for global emergency aid.