In a pivotal move to bolster Sierra Leone’s health systems, CARE has officially handed over essential logistics support to local partners and the Port Loko District Health Management Teams (DHMTs) under the Epidemic Control and Reinforcement of Health Systems (ECRHS III) project. This initiative, funded by the German Government through KfW, highlights CARE’s dedication to enhancing epidemic control and reinforcing the healthcare infrastructure in the country.
During the handover ceremony, motorbikes and ICT equipment were transferred to four key partners—ABC Development, RODA, MoPADA, and the Port Loko DHMT. These resources are designed to improve operational efficiency, field monitoring, and emergency response in remote areas, where access is often a challenge.
Dr. Sylvester Epiagolo, CARE’s Health Program Director, emphasized the significance of the donation, describing it as a crucial element in enhancing the capacity of local partners. “These assets, funded by the German Government through KfW, are essential to the success of the ECRHS program. They will enable our local partners to respond more effectively to epidemics and manage administrative tasks more efficiently,” he said.
Rachel Wolff, CARE’s Country Director for Sierra Leone and Liberia, expressed gratitude for the strong collaboration between CARE and its local partners. She also underscored the importance of safety, noting that each motorbike was equipped with a helmet to protect riders. “While this equipment is vital for improving efficiency, ensuring the safety of our staff and partners is our top priority,” Rachel remarked.
Brima Abdulai Sheriff, CARE’s Partnership Director, spoke about the broader impact of this support. “This handover reinforces our commitment to localizing development programs and cultivating meaningful partnerships. The motorbikes and ICT equipment will improve project governance and ensure timely responses to health emergencies,” he explained.
Representing the local partners, Ibrahim Sillah of ABC Development expressed gratitude to CARE, KfW, and the Government of Sierra Leone. “This donation symbolizes the strength of our partnership, and we are committed to using these resources to reach vulnerable communities, especially those in areas inaccessible by vehicles,” he said.
The event highlighted CARE’s continued efforts to foster sustainable health interventions and build resilient health systems through strategic partnerships and localized development initiatives.
This initiative is expected to enhance governance, increase regular field monitoring, and strengthen epidemic response capabilities in the project’s operational districts, ultimately contributing to a stronger health system in Sierra Leone.
