Sierra Leone's President Julius Maada Bio has reiterated his commitment to universal health coverage following the country's successful acquisition of a $20 million award from the Pandemic Fund. The announcement was made after a briefing at State House in Freetown on March 7, 2025, where President Bio was informed by Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby and representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The Pandemic Fund is designed to enhance pandemic prevention, preparedness, and response in low- and middle-income countries. Sierra Leone plans to use its allocation to improve disease surveillance, strengthen laboratory capacity, and expand workforce training.
Dr. Austin Demby noted that securing the fund was competitive but achieved through collaboration with WHO and FAO. "The Pandemic Fund award ensures that Sierra Leone is not only responding to outbreaks but is continuously prepared to prevent and contain them," he stated.
WHO Country Representative Dr. George Ameh praised President Bio for his dedication to universal health coverage, highlighting Sierra Leone's participation in the Universal Health Review as evidence of this commitment. "The leadership and dedication of President Bio and the Ministry of Health, along with the collaborative efforts of all partners, were instrumental in securing this funding," Dr. Ameh said.
FAO Country Representative Dr. Saeed Abubakar Bancie expressed FAO’s ongoing support for Sierra Leone's health sector. He emphasized three focus areas: disease surveillance, laboratory systems, and workforce development while pledging technical expertise in livestock health.
President Bio congratulated the team responsible for securing the fund and stressed that effective partnerships lead to tangible results. "This achievement is a testament to what can be accomplished when we work together with determination and purpose," he stated.
He urged continued efforts towards improving healthcare infrastructure as part of his government's priority on universal health coverage. "The hard work that secured this fund must now translate into tangible improvements in our healthcare system," President Bio concluded.
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