Congratulations to the Capacity Research Innovation Building maternity Systems in Sierra Leone (CRIBS) and Preterm pre-eclampsiA PlAcental Growth factor testing for reduction of Adverse Outcomes (PAPAGAIO) Global Health Research Groups, led by Professor Andrew Shennan OBE, who were recognised as a highly commended finalist in the NIHR (National Institute for Health and Care Research) Impact Prizes 2025.
The NIHR Impact Prizes recognise major improvements in health over the last two decades, driven by research and scientific advances. The prizes celebrate researchers and teams who have had a major impact on the health and wealth of the nation, as well as globally.
The CRIBS Global Health Research Group has been working in partnership to implement simple, scalable innovations to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality and build research capacity in Sierra Leone. They have developed and rolled out a novel medical device to all health facilities nationwide in Sierra Leone, enabling earlier detection of high blood pressure, bleeding and infection, the leading causes of death in mothers. This has resulted in a 38% increase in screening of women’s vital signs. They have also advanced point-of-care blood tests for pre-eclampsia, with potential for global implementation.
The cluster randomised controlled trial of 2YoungLives, a community-based mentoring programme for adolescent mothers, showed an important reduction in a composite of maternal, stillbirth and neonatal deaths, reduced stigma in families, communities and health facilities, and strengthened support for adolescent mothers.
Beyond direct impact, they have nurtured a sustainable research workforce in Sierra Leone, supporting multiple PhDs and Master’s degrees. Their findings have influenced national health policy and informed the national maternity training curriculum.
Dr Alexandra Ridout, Clinical Lecturer in our Department of Women & Children’s Health , attended the award ceremony last week on behalf of the team. She said: “This work is a powerful testament to the impact of true partnership. Rooted in local priorities, our research is driving meaningful change for mothers and babies in Sierra Leone. Led by the Ministry of Health and strengthened by co-production with the University of Sierra Leone, Welbodi Partnership, Lifeline Nehemiah Projects, and the National Midwifery Schools, we work with the community, amplifying voices that are often unheard. The CRIBS motto, ‘Dis na we yone’ – ‘this is ours’ – reflects our shared commitment to sustainable, locally driven solutions.”
