By Komba Fillie
Health Alert Sierra Leone, WASH-Net, and the Parliamentary Caucus on Immunization and Primary Healthcare on Friday 16th April 2026 commended the Ministry of Finance for the timely approval of Sierra Leone’s GAVI co-financing commitment for 2026 for vaccines and immunization.
Speaking during a press conference held at the Health Alert office in the east of Freetown, the Executive Director of Health Alert Victor Lansana Koroma eq said this is part of the organization’s and WASH-Net’s advocacy activities to increase domestic financing and ensure timely payment of GAVI co-financing to sustain immunization. He noted that a meeting was held on 8th April 2026 at the Ministry of Finance headquarters on George Street in Freetown, where the Executive Director emphasized the importance of continuous advocacy to ensure the government meets its co-financing obligations.
In response, the Deputy Principal Financial Secretary, Mr. Samuel E.B. Momoh, confirmed that the payment was approved ahead of the deadline. He stated that this proactive step is critical to strengthening Sierra Leone’s health system and improving broader health outcomes. He however called on the Ministry of Health, through the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), to expedite the submission of the required PET forms as requested by the Ministry of Finance, noting that this will ensure swift disbursement and prevent unnecessary delays.
On behalf of the parties, Health Alert and WASH-Net reaffirmed their commitment to follow up on this commitment and also monitor the payment of these funds to the Ministry of Health through the EPI, to ensure Sierra Leone sustains its gains in vaccines, immunization, and overall healthcare delivery.
