President Julius Maada Bio of the Republic of Sierra Leone has announced a 300-day period of activism aimed at accelerating national delivery efforts, with a strong focus on reducing maternal mortality. The President also called on fellow African leaders and development partners to join Sierra Leone in what he described as a decisive and results-driven campaign.
President Bio made the announcement on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in Addis Ababa, where Heads of State and Government are convened to deliberate on key continental priorities.
According to President Bio, the 300 Days of Activism is a presidential initiative designed to fast-track implementation in areas where progress has been slow, particularly in maternal health outcomes. He stressed that while policy frameworks and known solutions already exist, the challenge lies in consistent and disciplined execution.
The President explained that the activism period will focus on ensuring continuous and quality care for women throughout pregnancy, promoting safe deliveries in health facilities, responding swiftly to obstetric complications and strengthening postnatal follow-up services. He underscored that maternal mortality remains a pressing concern across Africa and Sierra Leone is determined to intensify efforts to address it.
“The urgency is intentional. Too many maternal deaths continue to occur because known solutions are not applied consistently,” President Bio stated. “The purpose of the 300 Days of Activism is to close that gap through discipline, accountability and sustained political focus.”
He further emphasized that the initiative will not be symbolic but practical and measurable. Progress, he said, will be closely monitored, results will be shared openly and success will ultimately be measured by the number of lives saved.
“Maternal mortality is not reduced by statements alone; it is reduced by daily decisions and systems that are held accountable for results,” the President added, highlighting the need for strong health systems, committed leadership and coordinated partnerships.
President Bio’s call for collaboration extends beyond Sierra Leone’s borders. He invited African leaders, regional institutions and international development partners to align with the initiative, share best practices and strengthen continental solidarity in tackling preventable maternal deaths.
The President noted that maternal health is not only a public health issue but also a matter of social justice, gender equity and sustainable development. By prioritizing safe motherhood, he said, countries can safeguard families, strengthen communities and build more resilient health systems.
The 300 Days of Activism is scheduled to commence on 1st March 2026, marking the beginning of what President Bio described as an intensive national effort anchored on accountability, transparency and measurable impact.
Observers at the African Union summit have described the initiative as a bold step that reflects growing continental recognition of the need for focused delivery and implementation in achieving health-related development goals.
With the launch date approaching, attention is expected to turn to how Sierra Leone operationalizes the initiative and mobilizes both domestic and international support to ensure its success.
