Freetown, 7th October 2024

The Government of Sierra Leone has approved the deployment of 20 medical personnel to Rwanda in response to the urgent international call for assistance to combat the Marburg virus outbreak. This initiative is being coordinated by the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), under the leadership of Professor Brigadier Foday Sahr, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization (WHO) Sierra Leone Country Office.

A pre-deployment briefing, held on 5th October 2024 at the NPHA Head Office in Freetown, provided essential information on the current situation in Rwanda. The medical personnel, selected for their expertise, are scheduled to depart in the coming days for an initial period of 90 days, with the possibility of extending their mission depending on the outbreak’s progression. Their primary focus will be on case management, playing a crucial role in helping Rwanda contain and manage the spread of the virus.

Speaking on the importance of this mission, Professor Brigadier Foday Sahr stated, *“Sierra Leone has a history of contributing to global health emergencies, and this deployment reaffirms our commitment to regional and international solidarity. We are confident in the expertise and dedication of our medical team as they prepare to assist Rwanda in this critical effort.”*

Upon arrival in Rwanda, the Sierra Leonean health workers will undergo further in-depth training and preparedness measures to ensure both their safety and the effectiveness of their operations. WHO will be providing logistical and technical support to help integrate the team into Rwanda’s ongoing response efforts.

The Marburg virus, a highly infectious disease with symptoms similar to Ebola, represents a significant threat to public health. Sierra Leone's proactive deployment of medical personnel highlights the nation’s commitment to fighting infectious diseases on a global scale.

Safety measures have been rigorously planned, and family members as well as the public have been assured that regular updates and communication channels will be maintained throughout the mission.

This deployment not only underscores Sierra Leone’s resilience and readiness in the face of health emergencies but also strengthens its ongoing collaboration with international partners, including the WHO, to safeguard regional and global health.