9 November 2012, Brussels - The European Union will help Sierra Leone reduce child mortality and improve maternal health. A new programme will strengthen health systems and increase the capacity of government and community institutions to deliver quality health services.
Funded with €24 million, the project will help to provide drugs and medical supplies, as well as food products and micronutrients (such as vitamins), for treating malnutrition. Doctors will be trained on maternal and child healthcare; health workers will receive training on issues such as the causes of malnutrition and its treatment. Existing health facilities will also be rehabilitated by providing safe water, waste disposal management, hygiene and sanitation.
The programme will provide items such as solar refrigerators, as well as adequate medical equipment. Other activities will focus on strengthening the governance of the health sector of Sierra Leone.
More information can be found at http://ec.europa.eu/europeaid/documents/aap/2012/pr_aap-spe_2012_sle_p3.pdf