Mini’s Village Foundation is committed to making a meaningful difference in local communities by improving access to healthcare and increasing awareness of critical health issues.
01
HIV/AIDS
The neonatal mortality rate in Sierra Leone stands at 78 per 1,000 live births, the highest in the world (World Bank). Infant mortality in some regions is four times higher than the sub-Saharan African average, with more than 200 deaths per 1,000 live births (UNICEF).
There are significant regional disparities across the country. For example, in Kenema, the 2021 National Survey reported an alarming 224 deaths per 1,000 live births—equivalent to nearly one in every four children. Nationally, the statistics remain stark: 9% of children (1 in 11) die before their first birthday, and 15% (1 in 7) do not survive to their fifth birthday.
Children living in rural areas are at a greater disadvantage compared to their urban counterparts, with under-five mortality rates of 181 per 1,000 live births in rural regions versus 158 per 1,000 live births in urban settings. Maternal education also plays a critical role: under-five mortality is higher among children born to mothers with no education (180 deaths per 1,000 live births) compared to those born to mothers with secondary or higher education (147 deaths per 1,000 live births).
Access to healthcare remains a major challenge. According to the 2013 National Survey, more than 70% of women reported experiencing at least one significant barrier to obtaining healthcare for themselves. Financial constraints were particularly pressing, with two-thirds of women citing concerns about affording treatment.
The HIV/AIDS epidemic has also persisted in Sierra Leone since the 1980s. The African Development Bank (2019) highlighted the high prevalence of infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis B (HBV) among the country’s 7.5 million population. Sierra Leone faces a mixed and generalised HIV epidemic, with a national prevalence of 1.7%. The 2019 Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS, 2019) further revealed higher prevalence in urban areas (2.3%) compared to rural areas (1.2%).
There are indications that HIV incidence may be rising, which, if left unaddressed, could escalate into a major public health emergency. Although awareness of HIV exists among adults, uptake of voluntary testing remains low (<30%). As of 2015, only 29% of the country’s 60,000 people living with HIV/AIDS were receiving antiretroviral therapy, leaving the majority without life-saving treatment.
02
HBV/Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B (HBV) is a serious public health concern in West Africa, particularly in Sierra Leone, where the prevalence is estimated at 13%, making it one of the highest rates in the world. While sexual transmission contributes to the spread, most HBV infections occur at birth through mother-to-child transmission or during early childhood exposure.
With rising drug use, needle sharing has become an increasing source of infection, reaching epidemic levels in some parts of the country. Transmission is also common through the use of inadequately sterilised medical equipment in hospitals and clinics.
Beyond hepatitis, HBV is a major driver of liver cancer, which is one of the leading causes of death among young men in Sierra Leone.
Importantly, HBV is preventable. Newborns can be protected if vaccinated within the first 24 hours after birth, dramatically reducing the risk of chronic infection. In addition, progression to liver cancer can be prevented with the use of antiviral treatments such as Tenofovir, which is also widely used in the management of HIV.
What We Do
01
Education and Training
We will educate people and train professionals to reduce transmission and stigma associated with HIV/AIDS and HBV that prevents many from seeking healthcare access.
02
Prevention and Vaccination
We will provide care and support for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers to prevent the transmission of HIV along with birth dose HBV vaccines and a post-natal follow-up clinic for infants and their mothers.
03
Screening and Testing
We will perform easily available, free and confidential HIV and HBV diagnosis through point-of-care testing, screening and contact tracing with confidential assessment.
04
Treatment and Support
We will dispense a free, reliable and continuing source of HIV and HBV treatment and promote mental well-being in patients suffering from these diseases.
05
Community Outreach
We will deliver HIV and HBV healthcare services across the country and combat the stigma through community outreach including schools, churches, mosques and hospitals.
