The campaigner African Programme Amnesty International Bashir Ayodele Ameen yesterday disclosed that around the globe, Sierra Leone is one of the countries that have the highest maternal mortality and this is seriously engaging their interest as they are working extensively to reduce infant mortality.
He said they are involved in this topic because it is not only a hospital problem but it is a human rights issue.
Mr. Ameen further disclosed that in Ireland infant maternal mortality is 1 in 47 thousand but in Sierra it is 1 in 8. He stated that most of the deaths are preventable because pregnancy is not a disease it is an issue of empowerment he said.
Amnesty International he went on , does not want to be based in London and not to take note of the problem in Sierra Leone.
He disclosed that the high level mission worldwide Secretary General Irene Khan will arrive in Sierra Leone on the 18 September,2009 with a BBC crew and on the 19th he will be meeting with stakeholders.
In addition, he said on the 22nd Mrs. Khan would launch a Caravan at the Bishop Johnson’s School and also in some areas in the interior. After the launching of the Caravan, she will continue interacting with victims of maternal mortality, community people, hospitals and finally the minister of health for her final reports.
Amnesty International has called on the Government to take this as a health emergency and also to budget 15% to the health business according to the Abuja declaration.
They are also calling on the Government to give free treatment to pregnant women and lactating mothers; also expect accountability in the health sector and all health workers should be paid well and work in an excellent environment.
By Emmanuella Kallon
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