In Mattru Town, Bonthe District, President Julius Maada Bio has inaugurated a cold chain facility and launched the National Emergency Medical Services (NEMS) program. These efforts are part of Sierra Leone’s Quality Essential Health Service and System Support project.
President Bio expressed gratitude to the health sector management team and donor partners for their contributions. He noted that the cold chain facility would enhance healthcare delivery in Bonthe and serve as a model for other districts. The President praised Sierra Leone’s immunization record, attributing it to infrastructure investments like cold chain facilities and dedicated healthcare workers.
The President emphasized equitable healthcare access, stating, “Throughout our lives, we need a well-structured healthcare service that addresses our needs irrespective of region, tribal affiliation, color, or sex.” He also highlighted that new ambulance services would reduce emergency response times and facilitate timely referrals.
Dr. Songor Koedoyoma of NEMS informed the President about deploying 14 new ambulances across five districts to improve response times with efficient maintenance practices.
Dr. Desmond Maada Kangbai from the EPI Program praised the government’s immunization efforts with a 95% coverage rate recently. He stressed the cold chain facility’s role in expanding vaccine storage capacity.
Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby lauded President Bio’s leadership in transforming healthcare. He cited an over 90% national immunization rate in recent years and reductions in maternal deaths and infant mortality rates. The Minister assured that new facilities aim for zero preventable maternal and child deaths nationwide.
President Bio also visited various ongoing projects in Bonthe District during his working visit to assess progress firsthand.
