In a recently released Provisional Annual Vital Report, dated 31st December 2024, the National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) of Sierra Leone announced a notable increase in the nation’s birth rate. The report revealed that Sierra Leone recorded 246,437 live births in 2024, marking a rise of 11,064 births, or 4.7%, compared to the previous year.
Breaking down the demographics, the report highlighted that a significant portion of these births, approximately 31.2%, were to mothers aged between 20 and 24 years. Alarmingly, 17.2% of all births in 2024 involved adolescent mothers aged 10 to 19 years, marking the highest percentage observed since 2020.
In terms of monthly trends, October witnessed the highest number of births, with 22,636 new babies born, whereas February saw the fewest, with only 19,380 births.
On a positive note, the report also indicated a decrease in stillbirths. In 2024, Sierra Leone experienced 3,355 stillbirths, a significant reduction of 487 cases or 13% compared to 2023.
