Reported by: Prince Saah
Monrovia, Liberia – Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan has called for the expedited completion and opening of the New Redemption Hospital in Caldwell, Montserrado County, as the government intensifies efforts to improve healthcare delivery. Minister Ngafuan made the call during a tour of the nearly completed facility attended by officials of the Ministries of Finance and Development Planning and Health, project managers, consultants, and contractors.
Speaking after the tour, the minister said the visit was not intended to assign blame for delays but to identify and address outstanding challenges that could further hinder the hospital’s completion. Also, he stressed that the Ministry of Finance remains committed to supporting government priorities, particularly programs aligned with the ARREST Agenda. Moreover, Ngafuan urged the project team to openly address all remaining obstacles and ensure that established deadlines are met.
For her part, Health Minister Dr. Louise Kpoto disclosed that construction of the hospital is approximately 92 percent complete, with remaining works including testing and commissioning of mechanical and electrical systems, installation of steel doors, final finishes, cleaning, and improvements to pedestrian access. Dr. Kpoto explained that civil works are expected to be completed by November 30, 2026, while full contract clearance is targeted for December 31, 2026.
She further disclosed that contracts for the hospital’s general equipment have been secured, with the Ministry of Health already making a 20 percent advance payment. However, Liberia’s Health Minister narrated that the hospital cannot open immediately upon completion of construction, as medical equipment installation, recruitment and training of staff, development of operational guidelines, and public awareness will also be required.
Meanwhile, project managers reported that the access road to the new hospital was 52 percent complete as of their July assessment. Once completed and operational, the New Redemption Hospital is expected to significantly strengthen healthcare delivery, particularly maternal and newborn services. Health authorities said recruitment for the facility is already underway.
The New Redemption Hospital project was initiated in 2016 as part of Liberia’s post-Ebola recovery efforts. Minister Ngafuan also highlighted the World Bank’s continued interest in the project, noting that World Bank Vice President Ousmane Diagana has maintained an interest in the hospital since its inception and is expected to visit Liberia in September to review its progress.
