Encourage Liberians to Rely on Local Care
Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has commended the Rotary Club for what he described as a “critical and life-saving intervention” in Liberia’s healthcare system, and also called on the public to rebuild trust in local medical facilities instead of travelling abroad for treatment.
The President stated that the installation of oxygen plants and other essential medical equipment as a major step in strengthening the country’s healthcare system during a program honouring the Rotary Club’s most recent donation to the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK).
“This is not just a donation it is a commitment to saving lives,” Boakai said. “The Rotary Club has demonstrated that even in times of crisis, communities can rely on institutions that are dedicated to service.”
The President stressed that although many Liberians still seek medical care abroad, the focus must now shift to improving and trusting domestic facilities. He said, “Not everyone will leave this country for treatment. Our effort must be to build here for the majority of our people.”
Boakai cited recent developments at JFK, including improved services and sanitation, as indications of progress. He cited comments from residents who said the hospital was “smell-free” for the first time in years, which he claimed is a sign that changes are starting to take effect.
The President also took the opportunity to urge people and public employees to embrace a culture of competence and accountability. He declared, “We cannot continue in a system where we pretend to pay and people pretend to work. If we are to progress, competence must be acknowledged and rewarded.”
Boakai highlighted Rotary’s wider influence and commended the organization’s longstanding dedication to humanitarian assistance, youth empowerment, and community development. He cited the club’s “Four-Way Test,” which serves as a model for national ideals and encourages truth, justice, goodwill, and mutual gain.
In addition to infrastructure, the President emphasized the value of encouraging young Liberians to volunteer. He urged Rotary to broaden its presence throughout the nation, particularly underserved rural communities, saying, “We must teach our young people that it is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Boakai further promised that donated medical equipment will be appropriately installed and used at JFK and other facilities and reiterated the government’s collaboration with development organizations. “Every contribution counts as we build our nation together,” he declared. “The Rotary Club has demonstrated what is achievable when dedication and action are combined.”
The gathering of government representatives, medical professionals, and Rotary Club members signalled the beginning of yet another phase of public-private cooperation targeted at enhancing Liberia’s healthcare delivery system.
