By Hassan Osman Kargbo
Under the warm glow of the sun, a sense of hope and commitment filled the air at the Miatta Conference Hall, Youyi Building, as health sector stakeholders gathered to mark a pivotal moment in Sierra Leone’s healthcare progress.
The event, which symbolized the beginning of the 2025 World Health Day celebrations, saw the World Health Organization (WHO) make a generous contribution to Sierra Leone’s ongoing health security efforts. This donation is set to support the country’s growing health infrastructure and its fight against emerging public health threats.
On the sunny afternoon, WHO’s Country Representative, Dr. George Ameh, officially handed over two brand-new buses and a significant shipment of state-of-the-art medical equipment, valued at approximately $380,000. These donations are aimed at strengthening Sierra Leone’s healthcare capacity, especially in the areas of public health surveillance, transportation logistics, and health system responsiveness.
The two buses, a vital addition to the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), will primarily assist in improving the country’s virus security activities, allowing for swift transportation and better coordination of health efforts nationwide. In addition to the buses, the health equipment will be used to bolster the work of the Pharmacy Board, ensuring that the Ministry of Health’s health security measures are efficiently implemented.
In his address, Dr. George Ameh emphasized that the donation was not just a symbolic gesture, but an investment in Sierra Leone’s future health security. “This donation is designed to assist the Ministry of Health in bolstering the country’s health system by providing tools that are essential for monitoring and managing public health concerns,” he said. “By supporting the capacity of the Pharmacy Board and improving access to critical resources for the NPHA, we are laying a strong foundation for health security.”
The significance of the donation was not lost on the local health leadership. Professor Charles Senessie, Acting Minister of Health, expressed his gratitude for the timely support from the WHO and conveyed the appreciation of Sierra Leone’s government. “On behalf of President Brigadier General (Rtd.) Julius Maada Bio, we thank the WHO for this crucial support. This donation arrives at a time when our health systems are under pressure due to the ongoing Mpox outbreak, and it will be invaluable in strengthening our response efforts,” he remarked.
Professor Senessie went on to highlight the urgent need for resources to continue fighting public health threats and ensuring that Sierra Leone’s health infrastructure can respond quickly and effectively. “These buses will be integral to our efforts in enhancing the logistics of public health activities. The equipment will be used strategically to enhance public health safety and further protect our people,” he added.
The NPHA’s Executive Director, Professor Brigadier General Foday Sahr, also weighed in on the importance of the donation, particularly as the country continues to face health security challenges such as the Mpox outbreak. He acknowledged that the buses would greatly facilitate virus security activities across the country, ensuring quicker response times and broader outreach in remote areas. “We are grateful for this donation, which will significantly enhance our capacity to manage outbreaks and improve overall public health surveillance. The addition of these buses will enable us to mobilize and respond to health emergencies more effectively,” Professor Sahr noted.
The donation from WHO comes at a critical time for Sierra Leone, as the country is continuing its efforts to combat the Mpox outbreak, which has strained public health resources. The timely addition of medical equipment and logistical support will enable health workers to better respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak while laying the groundwork for stronger health security in the future.
This event also serves as a reminder of the ongoing partnership between Sierra Leone and international organizations like the WHO, underscoring the importance of continued investment in public health infrastructure. As the country celebrates World Health Day, the donation marks a hopeful step towards a more secure and resilient health system, promising to enhance the lives of Sierra Leone’s citizens for years to come.
With health security firmly in focus, Sierra Leone’s path forward looks increasingly supported by international collaborations, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to the well-being of its people.
