Commentary

First Lady Dr. Fatima Maada Bio has officially launched the Uterine Health Fund (UHF) at a ceremony held at the New Brookfields Hotel in Freetown. The fund, the first of its kind on the African continent, is a financing mechanism aimed at tackling uterine health issues that affect millions of women across the continent.
In Her Keynote address at the event launch, Her Excellency described uterine conditions such as fibroids, chronic pelvic pain, and heavy bleeding as “a silent crisis” that has been overlooked in health policies, training, and budgets for too long.

“Uterine health is part of maternal health. Until it is counted, funded, and delivered, reproductive care remains incomplete,” she said. She Stressed that these issues have been ignored in national budgets and donor agendas for far too long. Today, we begin to correct that.”

The UHF is the first financing mechanism in Africa solely dedicated to uterine health, and it will provide subsidized diagnosis, surgery, screening, and treatment for over 500 women. At least 50 women with severe fibroids will receive surgical care, and a digital Uterine Health Registry will track outcomes and guide future policy.

Founded by Sierra Leonean public health advocate Fatou Wurie, the fund uses a blended finance model combining philanthropic support, private sector input, and government partnerships. It also includes a “Compassion Reserve” to assist with transport and partial surgery costs not otherwise covered.

Her Excellency, who also serves as President of the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), emphasized the fund’s role in driving evidence-based reform, She made a passionate call to the government, development partners, and the private sector to support the fund generously. The issue is deeply personal and rooted in her ongoing advocacy for gender equity. She pledged to bring global visibility and leadership to the cause.

“Every little support count and matters in changing the life of our women,” she said. “This is about justice, dignity, and the health of generations to come.”
The First Lady commended Fatou Wurie for launching the fund in her home country, stating that Charity begins at home. Calling it a proud moment for Sierra Leone.

“We are not just launching a project we are transforming how women’s health is funded and delivered,” she added.
With the launch of the Uterine Health Fund, Sierra Leone has positioned itself as a continental leader in advancing women’s reproductive health, ushering in a new era of healthcare driven by data and respect for women's dignity.
Credit: Strategic Communications Divisions, Office of the First Lady.