Freetown mothers' group
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Outreach
SMI Strengthens Referral Pathways with Kissy Mental Health Teaching Hospital
Safe Mothers Initiative | Freetown, Sierra Leone
On 10th September 2026, the Safe Mothers Initiative (SMI) team held an engagement meeting with the management and staff of Kissy Mental Health Teaching Hospital to strengthen partnership and establish a clear referral pathway for mothers experiencing Postpartum Depression (PPD) and other maternal mental health challenges.
The visit was part of SMI's commitment to ensure that every mother who needs specialized care can access it quickly, without delay or stigma.
Building a Bridge Between Community and Clinical Care
SMI Outreach: Raising PPD Awareness at Aberdeen Women's Center
On Thursday, 12th May 2026, the Safe Mothers Initiative (SMI) team visited Aberdeen Women's Center to bring awareness about Postpartum Depression (PPD) and maternal mental health directly to pregnant and new mothers.
We were warmly welcomed by Sister Margaret, the Sister-in-Charge, who gave the team a tour of the facility and introduced us to the Center's In-Charge, the Country Director, and other senior matrons.
Reaching mothers where they are
The outreach was delivered in two key sessions:
1. Antenatal session
SMI's Outreach and Communication Officer, Mrs Jacklyne Davies, together with SMI staff, shared clear, compassionate messages on PPD with pregnant women. We talked about what PPD is, common signs to watch for, coping strategies, and where to seek help.
SMI-branded flyers were distributed, and many women asked practical questions about how to find the SMI office, our opening hours, and the counselling services available to mothers who need support.
2. Postnatal session
In the postnatal ward, the team held a similar session with new mothers. The response was positive and open. Mothers engaged in discussion, shared concerns, and learned that they are not alone. The team answered questions about SMI's services and encouraged mothers to reach out for counselling and community support.
Connection beyond the message
The outreach was more than an information session. It was a chance for real conversation. Educational materials were shared, questions were answered, and mothers felt heard. The visit ended with group photographs with the Surgeon-in-Charge of Aberdeen Women's Center and other staff members, a sign of the growing partnership between SMI and facility health teams.
Why this matters
Outreaches like this help break the stigma that surrounds maternal mental health. Many women hear about PPD for the first time during these sessions and leave knowing help is available. By working directly with health centers like Aberdeen Women's Center, SMI is building a bridge between community awareness and clinical care.
Looking ahead
The Aberdeen outreach was a success, and it reinforces SMI's commitment to meeting mothers in hospitals, clinics, and communities across Freetown. We thank the management and staff of Aberdeen Women's Center for their hospitality and collaboration. Safe Mothers Initiative looks forward to continuing these partnerships to ensure every mother knows: you are not alone, and support is here.
Supporting Mothers, Strengthening Families
Safe Mothers Initiative | May 2026
Metchem Outreach
On 10th April 2026, the Safe Mothers Initiative (SMI) team visited Metchem Community Health Center to raise awareness about Postpartum Depression (PPD) and to remind mothers that they do not have to go through it alone.
Over 60 women, including new mothers and pregnant women, joined the session alongside staff from Metchem Community Health Center led by Ms. Anthonia Davies, and community leaders.
The program began with Mr. James Sesay introducing the Safe Mothers Initiative and sharing our commitment to improving maternal health, with a special focus on maternal mental health.
Leading the conversation
The outreach was led by Mrs. Jacklyne Davies, SMI Communication and Outreach Officer. She explained what PPD is, how it affects mothers, and the common signs to watch for: prolonged sadness, anxiety, mood swings, withdrawal, and loss of interest. Her message was clear: PPD is real, PPD is common, and PPD is treatable. Early identification and support make all the difference.
Ms. Anthonia Davies, Nurse in Charge at Metchem, also spoke to the women. As a midwife who sees PPD-related signs daily, she urged mothers to take the session seriously and to speak up when they are struggling.
Our Counselor shared how SMI supports mothers through one-on-one counselling, emotional support, and referrals to clinical care when needed. CHW Gloria Cole reinforced the message, reminding the community that awareness and support from family and neighbors are key to a mother's recovery.
Community response
The session was interactive. Mothers asked questions, shared experiences, and many stayed back to speak privately with the team. Several women voluntarily shared their contact numbers for follow-up support and counselling.
Photos and videos were taken to document the day: moments of learning, listening, and connection. We remain committed to taking this message to more communities: no mother should suffer in silence.
Supporting Mothers, Strengthening Families
Safe Mothers Initiative | April 2026
SMI Reaches 700+ Mothers in Kroo Bay: Breaking the Silence on Postpartum Depression
On 30th June 2026, the Safe Mothers Initiative (SMI) team took the conversation on maternal mental health to the heart of Kroo Bay. More than 700 mothers, caregivers, and community members gathered at the Kroo Bay Community Centre for an afternoon of learning, sharing, and support.
The event was officially opened with prayers by Pastor James Sesay and Mohamed Kamara, followed by warm words of welcome from Mr. Mohammed Thonkara, Kroo Bay Community Chairman. The Chairman thanked SMI for bringing such a vital topic to the community and urged everyone to support mothers struggling emotionally after childbirth.
Mabinty Fofanah, Nurse at Kroo Bay Community Health Center, also addressed the gathering. She reminded families that early help saves lives and that emotional support is just as important as physical care for a new mother.
The conversation: What is Postpartum Depression?
Mr. Desmond Davies, SMI Program Director, introduced SMI's mission: to ensure no mother suffers in silence. He explained what PPD is, why it happens, and why it must be treated as a real health condition and not a sign of weakness.
Mrs. Jacklyne Davies, SMI Communication and Outreach Officer, led an interactive session covering:
- What PPD is and how it is different from the baby blues
- Common signs and symptoms to watch for
- Risk factors that can make mothers more vulnerable
- Why early identification matters
- How families and the community can support mothers through recovery
Her key message was: "PPD can affect any mother, regardless of age or background. Asking for help is a sign of strength."
Voices from the community
The most powerful part of the day was the open discussion. Several mothers courageously shared their own stories of emotional struggles after childbirth. Many said for the first time: "Now I understand what I went through." The room became a safe space with no judgment, just listening, learning, and support.
By the end of the session, participants showed a clear understanding of PPD and committed to looking out for one another.
Reaching more mothers
As part of the outreach, SMI distributed 250 care packages to mothers in attendance. While over 700 mothers turned up, showing the huge need and interest in this topic, the team was encouraged by the turnout and remains committed to reaching even more families in future programs.
Outcome and next steps
The Kroo Bay outreach increased awareness of PPD, reduced stigma and misconceptions around maternal mental health, encouraged mothers to seek help early, and mobilized community support for mothers and caregivers.
Safe Mothers Initiative extends sincere appreciation to the Community Chairman, Nurse Mabinty Fofanah, all volunteers, staff, and every mother who showed up and spoke up. We will continue to take this message to more communities across Freetown, because every mother deserves to be seen, heard, and supported.
Supporting Mothers, Strengthening Families
By: Mrs. Jacklyne Davies, Communication and Outreach Officer | Safe Mothers Initiative | June 2026
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