By Sara Camara
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE – In a video address to the Civil Society Network (CSN) Sierra Leone on April 16, 2025, U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) voiced strong opposition to the proposed “Safe Motherhood and Reproductive Healthcare Bill,” warning that it poses an “existential threat” to the lives of unborn children in Sierra Leone.
Smith, Chairman of the U.S. Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, addressed parliamentarians and civil society leaders, drawing on his 45 years of experience in Congress and his long-standing commitment to human rights and anti-trafficking efforts. He argued that the bill, while presented as a measure to improve maternal health, would legalize abortion methods that are harmful to both women and unborn babies.
“The so-called Safe Motherhood legislation that you are facing is an existential threat to the lives of tens of thousands of baby girls and boys in your country,” Smith stated. “I strongly believe that women deserve better than abortion. That every child is precious in the sight of God—as it should be in ours.”
Full Speech of the Congressman: 2025-04-16 Sierra Leone – Adobe cloud storage
Smith particularly criticized the promotion of the abortion pill, mifepristone, highlighting potential risks to women. He cited research indicating increased pain, bleeding, and a heightened risk of life-threatening hemorrhage associated with its use.
Instead of legalizing abortion, Smith advocated for investments in comprehensive maternal care, including pregnancy resource centers and initiatives like Maternal Life International’s “Safe Passages” program. He highlighted the importance of skilled birth attendants, emergency transport services, access to safe blood transfusions, and proper postnatal care.
Dr. George Mulcaire-Jones, founder and medical director of Maternal Life International, was quoted saying “Abortion is not the answer. In Sierra Leone, studies show that 39.4% of 4 maternal deaths are from obstetrical hemorrhage, 15.8% from hypertensive disorders, 10.1% from infection and 11.5% from non-obstetrical causes. Abortion-related deaths account for 2.9% of deaths, far less than that claimed by pro-abortion advocates.”
Smith concluded by urging Sierra Leone “to continue to stand firm against the push to legalize abortion and instead work towards real solutions that support both mother and child.” He emphasized the need to protect the most vulnerable, including unborn children, and called for increased investment in maternal care services.
The address was organized by the Civil Society Network Sierra Leone, with special thanks given to Glenis Mani Ngaujah and Reverend Ambassador Saa Samuel Sam for their efforts in bringing attention to the issue.
