Sierra leone: Sierra Leone's Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby, joined H.E. Lansana Gberie, Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, at the opening of the 79th World Health Assembly (WHA79). According to Sierra Leone News Agency, the World Health Assembly, convened annually by the WHO, serves as its supreme decision-making body where member states deliberate on global health priorities. This year's theme, 'Reshaping Global Health: A Shared Responsibility,' focused on collective action to address emerging challenges, including sustainable financing for the WHO and strengthening health systems. High-level speakers included the Assembly President, several Heads of State, Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus presented Health Awards to four recipients, urging member states to advance equitable access to medical countermeasures, finalize a pandemic treaty, and address urgent funding needs. Sierra Leone continues to play an active role within the WHO, especially in advancing Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Its National Health Sector Strategic Plan (2026-2030) prioritizes UHC, health security, and evidence-based interventions to reduce maternal and child mortality, HIV, malnutrition, and communicable diseases. The country has earned international recognition for its resilience during the Ebola outbreak, the COVID-19 pandemic, and other health emergencies. Notably, Sierra Leone was elected today as a member of the Assembly's General Committee, the steering body guiding member states through proceedings. President Julius Maada Bio's transformative health reforms emphasize equitable access to quality healthcare for all Sierra Leoneans, regardless of location or background.