By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, has praised the PReSTRack platform developed by the Directorate of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI) for its vital role in improving maternal health outcomes and enhancing healthcare delivery in remote parts of Sierra Leone.
Speaking on the Truth Morning Breakfast Program, Dr. Demby highlighted the impact of the innovative system, describing it as a practical solution to one of the country’s most pressing health challenges, maternal mortality. He explained that many maternal deaths in Sierra Leone occur because of delays in accessing timely care, particularly for women in hard-to-reach communities.
According to the minister, PReSTRack is helping to bridge that critical gap by ensuring that pregnant women receive early attention and continuous monitoring throughout their pregnancy. The system, which is both mobile and SMS-based, connects expectant mothers directly with healthcare workers, enabling real-time communication and coordination of services.
Dr. Demby noted that through PReSTRack, community health workers are now better equipped to track pregnancies, identify risks early, and respond faster to emergencies. “This digital tool is transforming how we manage maternal health. It helps us save lives by ensuring that no woman is left behind because of distance or poor communication,” he said.
The platform allows healthcare providers to register pregnant women, send appointment reminders, and coordinate referrals in real time. It also creates a data system that supports decision-making and helps health authorities monitor progress in maternal and child health services.
Dr. Demby commended DSTI for its innovation and partnership with the Ministry of Health, describing the initiative as a strong example of how technology can enhance public health outcomes. He added that PReSTRack demonstrates the government’s broader commitment to using digital tools to strengthen healthcare systems and achieve sustainable development goals.
He further encouraged health workers and community leaders to embrace technology as a means of improving service delivery and saving lives. “Digital innovation is no longer optional in healthcare — it is essential. PReSTRack shows how technology can make our health system more responsive, efficient, and inclusive,” the minister said.
Community feedback from districts where the platform has been deployed has also been positive, with reports of improved coordination, faster response times, and fewer complications during childbirth.
Dr. Demby reaffirmed that the Ministry of Health will continue to collaborate with DSTI and other partners to expand the use of PReSTRack across the country, ensuring that every pregnant woman, regardless of location, receives quality maternal care.
