Since December 2020, Orange SL Foundation, in collaboration with the Mama-Pikin Foundation, CAP at Columbia University, and the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, has led a transformative maternal and neonatal health initiative in Sierra Leone’s most vulnerable communities.
Backed by funding from Orange SL, this effort addresses the country’s persistent challenge of high maternal and neonatal mortality rates.
According to official Government of Sierra Leone data, maternal mortality stood at 717 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019. However, with increased investments and targeted interventions, the figure declined to 354 per 100,000 by 2023 a major improvement, but still among the highest globally.
Many of these deaths remain preventable, often linked to delays in accessing skilled care, poor health infrastructure, and a high rate of home deliveries.
From Pilot to National Impact: Launched in Kossoh Community, the pilot phase of the “Safeguarding Maternal Health Project” focused on holistic care from pregnancy to delivery and postnatal support. Key interventions of Orange and its implementing partner has included:
– Medical screening booths
– Infection prevention and control
– Health education and promotion
– Women’s care linkage
– Provision of baby care kits
After a year, Kossoh recorded a marked reduction in maternal deaths, prompting a full-scale expansion of the project in March 2024.
2020–2024 Achievements:
– Over 12 communities reached across rural and urban districts
– Over 20,000 mothers supported with safe delivery kits
– Introduction of facility-based care incentives to reduce home births
– Strengthened referral systems and improved health center capacities
Delivery Bucket Program: Encouraging Safer Births: The Mama-Pikin Foundation also scaled its impactful Delivery Bucket Program, supplying essential birth kits to pregnant women delivering at health facilities.
Each bucket contains basic hygiene and baby care items that support safe and dignified deliveries. Since early 2024, more than 20,000 delivery buckets have been distributed across targeted communities.
Communities Served Include:
-MMPS Hospital, Masongbo & Panlap CHCs (Makeni)
– Sewafe CHC (Kono), Hangha CHC (Kenema)
– York Village, Grafton, Kossoh Town (Western Area)
– Kailahun, Legbogbor, and Kondembaia (Northern Province)
Public-Private Partnership for National Progress: This initiative underscores the power of public-private partnerships in saving lives. Orange SL Foundation remains deeply committed to supporting national health goals and building healthier futures for Sierra Leonean women and children.
We extend sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Mama-Pikin Foundation, and all partners for their continued dedication to this vital cause.
