The Yunus Foundation

Midline Evaluation of Maternal Health Quality of Care Strategy in Africa

Sep 20, 2025

Maternal Health

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Across Africa, maternal health remains a central concern for policymakers and communities alike. The midline evaluation of the Maternal Health Quality of Care Strategy reveals both remarkable progress and critical gaps that require urgent attention. The findings highlight improvements in skilled birth attendance, community health worker involvement, and facility readiness, while also drawing attention to challenges such as inconsistent drug supply, limited infrastructure, and workforce shortages.

“Every woman deserves safe and dignified care during pregnancy and childbirth. Improving quality is not just a health goal—it is a human rights imperative.”

Access to Skilled Care: More women are delivering with trained professionals than five years ago.
Community Engagement: Village health teams are bridging the gap between rural mothers and formal health systems.
Persistent Barriers: Shortages of essential medicines and weak referral systems still place lives at risk.
Next Steps: Stronger investments in health infrastructure and digital tracking tools are recommended.

Providing Hope at Connaught Hospital

At the heart of Freetown, Connaught Hospital stands as Sierra Leone’s national referral center. The Yunus Foundation has provided vital assistance to patients by donating medical supplies, offering financial relief to families who cannot afford treatment, and ensuring that hope is restored where despair often looms. Dr. Karifala Sesay and his dedicated team continue to be strengthened by these interventions, which bring comfort and life-saving support to countless patients each year.

Ramadan Relief for Families

During the blessed month of Ramadan, the Foundation extends compassion to vulnerable households across communities. By distributing food items such as rice, sugar, and oil, as well as small financial stipends, families are able to observe the holy month with dignity. This initiative, led by Abubakarr Kamara and local volunteers, not only meets physical needs but also strengthens social bonds and the spirit of togetherness in Sierra Leone.

Feeding Children at Seidah Zahara Orphanage

Many children at the Seidah Zahara Orphanage rely on the Yunus Foundation’s consistent support for their daily meals and basic needs. The Orphanage Team works tirelessly to ensure the children are nourished, educated, and cared for in a safe environment. Beyond feeding, the Foundation provides clothing, learning materials, and psychosocial support, giving the children the opportunity to grow up with hope and dignity.

Supporting Local Mosques and Jamats

Faith and community development are central to the Foundation’s vision. By providing resources to local mosques and jamats, such as building repairs, Qur’an donations, and organizing community prayers, the Foundation helps strengthen the religious and social fabric of communities. In collaboration with Docorty Muslim Jamat, these efforts continue to foster unity, spirituality, and communal well-being.

Assisting Students at the Blind School

Education remains a pathway out of poverty, and for students at the Sierra Leone Blind School, it represents independence and self-reliance. The Yunus Foundation supports these students with Braille materials, learning equipment, and scholarships. By doing so, it ensures that visually impaired learners are not left behind but are empowered to pursue their education with dignity and confidence.

Strengthening Faith in Kabala District

In the rural Kabala District, faith plays a vital role in shaping community life. Imam Saadiq, together with the Foundation, has been working to strengthen local Islamic centers, train young religious leaders, and build interfaith harmony. These initiatives not only nurture spirituality but also promote peaceful coexistence, development, and resilience in rural Sierra Leone.

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