Sierra Leone’s government has unveiled a bold plan to enhance the country’s health sector in 2025, with Finance Minister Mr. Fantamadi Bangura announcing a budget allocation of NLe 1.5 billion, representing 9% of the nation’s total primary expenditures.
The announcement was made during Minister Bangura’s presentation to Members of Parliament, emphasizing critical investments in maternal and child health, medical infrastructure, and healthcare worker support.
Breakdown of Health Sector Allocation
The Ministry of Health has been earmarked NLe 131.7 million for targeted improvements:
NLe 41.2 million to upgrade tertiary hospitals and ambulance services.
NLe 16.1 million to bolster primary health services.
NLe 10.9 million to strengthen reproductive and child health services aimed at reducing maternal and child mortality.
The Free Healthcare Initiative for children under five continues with an allocation of NLe 64.4 million to the National Medical Supplies Agency, including NLe 42.2 million for procuring and distributing free healthcare drugs.
Support for Health Workers
In response to ongoing strikes by essential health workers, the government has allocated NLe 1.0 billion for wages and salaries, alongside NLe 56.2 million for staff at allied health agencies.
Local councils will receive NLe 61.8 million to manage devolved health functions, while public health agencies and the Health Service Commission have been allocated NLe 9.0 million and NLe 6.5 million, respectively.
Medical Infrastructure Expansion
Major infrastructure projects will receive NLe 30.0 million, including:
NLe 20.0 million for constructing a Cancer and Diagnostic Medical Center.
NLe 10.0 million for rehabilitating and expanding district hospitals.
Contributions from Development Partners
International development partners, including the World Bank, Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), and the Global Fund, have pledged NLe 388.5 million for key health initiatives. These include constructing a Pharma Grade Warehouse and other infrastructure projects. The government will contribute NLe 72.8 million as a counterpart to these donor-funded initiatives.
Minister Bangura’s detailed plan underscores the government’s commitment to addressing critical gaps in healthcare delivery while leveraging partnerships to ensure sustainable development in the sector.
Watch out for next edition on the implementation and delivery base policies…
