Congo Town, Monrovia – The National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Africa CDC and its international partners have begun the fourth edition of the Emmet A. Dennis National Scientific Conference in Liberia. The conference that is under the theme, “Strengthening National Capacities for Preparedness and Response to Diseases and Public Health Threats,” will last for three days at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
The scientific conference aims to forge discussions and connections that will light the path towards a stronger and more resilient public health landscape across Liberia, West Africa and the world and has brough together scientists, Medical Doctors and students.
Speaking, Dr. Julius S.M Gilayeneh, NPHIL Deputy Director General for Technical Service said that the conference seen as a platform for action, moving from readiness to resilience and from vulnerability to strength. Dr. Gilayeneh also described the fourth edition of the conference as a convergence of ideas, innovation and shared commitments for public health and science advancement.
Talking more about Ebola, COVID-19, recurring malaria outbreaks, cholera epidemics and Mpox, he narrated that those crises have revealed critical gaps in the system, leading to the establishment of the National Public Health Institute in Liberia.
Dr. Gilayeneh explained that NPHIL also serve as a center for technical excellence in disease surveillance, laboratory systems, workforce development, emergency response coordination and public health and biomedical research.
Despite progress, he acknowledged that the systems remain vulnerable due to evolving pathogens, population growth, rapid urbanization and deforestation.
NPHIL Deputy Director General for Technical Service explained that these is a need to build a resilient public system by strengthening national laboratory networks, diagnostic capacities and investing in a skilled public health workforce.
For her part, Grand Cape Mount Senator and Chairperson on Health at the Liberian Senate, Senator Dabah M. Varpilah reflected on Liberia’s experience with various public health crises, including Ebola in 2014 and COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of health as a matter of national security and economic stability.
Senator Varpilah noted that there is a need for political will, strategic investments and strong governance in addition to technical expertise for preparedness and response.
However, she highlighted the limitations of killed scientists and health professionals without adequate infrastructure, financing and enabling policies. The Grand Cape Mount Senator underscored the importance of coordination across sectors for effective health security.
The Chair on Health at the Liberian Senate emphasized the senate committee on health’s commitment to prioritizing health care, especially research and science, in national projects and policies.
Also, she called for the legislature to provide oversight and allocate resources to save lives and build resilience.
Senator Varpilah acknowledged the efforts of the infield team and the Ministry of Health in promoting health security.
Reported by: Prince Saah
