By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Sierra Leone’s Minister of Health and Sanitation, Dr. Austin Demby, has arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, to lead the country’s delegation at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA), a key global event bringing together World Health Organization (WHO) member states to discuss critical issues surrounding healthcare delivery and reform.
The Assembly, which runs from May 19 to 27, 2025, is the highest decision-making body of the WHO and serves as a platform for member nations to shape global health priorities, share experiences, and forge international partnerships. Dr. Demby’s participation underscores Sierra Leone’s commitment to playing an active role in advancing global health while seeking strategic support to improve its own healthcare systems.
Upon arriving at Geneva International Airport, Dr. Demby and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Mr. Edward Kawa, Head of Chancery and Minister Counsellor at Sierra Leone’s Embassy and Permanent Mission to the United Nations Office and Other International Organizations in Geneva. The reception reflected the importance of Sierra Leone’s engagement in the Assembly and its determination to build meaningful diplomatic and development ties during the event.
This year’s Assembly is particularly significant for Sierra Leone, which aims to use the forum to advance its ongoing health sector reform agenda. During the 77th Assembly, Sierra Leone made bold commitments to improve its healthcare infrastructure, workforce development, and health governance systems. The current participation is intended to further these goals by fostering bilateral partnerships and securing technical and financial support from international stakeholders.
Dr. Demby is expected to hold a series of high-level bilateral meetings with representatives from other member states, global health institutions, donor agencies, and international NGOs. Discussions will focus on accelerating progress in key areas such as maternal and child health, health systems strengthening, digital health, and epidemic preparedness — all crucial components of Sierra Leone’s national health strategy.
“Sierra Leone is committed to transforming its healthcare system to ensure that every citizen has access to quality, affordable, and sustainable health services,” Dr. Demby said ahead of his departure. “This Assembly presents a valuable opportunity to showcase our progress, share our challenges, and seek partnerships that will help us achieve our national and global health goals.”
The Health Ministry’s presence at the WHA also serves as a follow-up to recent domestic initiatives, including the launch of new health financing mechanisms, the scaling up of primary healthcare services, and the implementation of digital health records across key districts.
The World Health Assembly convenes under the theme of “All for Health, Health for All,” highlighting the urgency of collective global action to tackle persistent and emerging health threats. For Sierra Leone, still recovering from the legacy of the 2014–2016 Ebola epidemic and other systemic challenges, the Assembly offers both a stage for advocacy and a chance to learn from global best practices.
As deliberations unfold in Geneva, Sierra Leone’s delegation is poised to reaffirm the country’s place in the global health community — not just as a recipient of aid, but as a proactive contributor to health equity and innovation.
The outcome of the Assembly could significantly influence the direction of Sierra Leone’s health reforms, reinforcing the importance of sustained international collaboration in delivering universal health coverage and building resilient health systems.
