Freetown:Health Minister Dr. Austin Demby has welcomed delegates from the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) to engage in discussions aimed at reforming sustainable financing to expand access to essential healthcare in Sierra Leone and protect families from financial hardship.
According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the discussions held on October 12, 2026, in Freetown focused on strengthening the country’s health financing system. This includes implementing a universal basic package of services free at the point of care and a contributory health insurance package.
The proposed reforms aim to ensure citizens receive essential medical services without financial barriers, while enhancing the capacity of health facilities to provide reliable services. This includes access to essential medicines and vaccines for mothers, newborns, and other vulnerable groups.
Sustainable health financing is crucial for accelerating progress towards Sierra Leone’s Triple Zero goals. The 300 Days of Activism highlighted the importance of leadership, real-time data, and frontline action in improving health outcomes. The latest engagement seeks to establish a firmer financial foundation to sustain these improvements and advance healthcare delivery across the nation.
Throughout the week, the Ministries of Health, Finance, and Planning and Economic Development are collaborating with UNECA to assess financing projections, evaluate the feasibility of the proposed reforms, and identify sustainable domestic funding mechanisms for the health sector.
This collaboration is expected to guide efforts to strengthen healthcare financing, improve service delivery, and promote equitable access to essential health services throughout Sierra Leone.