Monrovia, Liberia – The World Health Organization (WHO) has provided the Ministry of Health with two fully equipped ambulances and essential medical supplies and equipment valued at US$600,000 in order to enhance emergency response and expand access to life-saving care for mothers and babies in Liberia. Medical equipment includes things like portable ultrasound instruments, newborn incubators, resuscitation gear, and infant ventilators.
Among the medical equipment are resuscitation tools, portable ultrasonography machines, infant ventilators, and neonatal incubators. The assistance is carefully timed as the Liberian government proceeds with its recently announced “365-day action plan to reduce maternal and newborn mortality nationwide,” which intends to expand access to prompt and high-quality care throughout the country. This commitment is part of WHO’s broader support for this initiative and its continuous efforts to enhance Liberia’s national health system.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Olushayo Olu, WHO Representative to Liberia, emphasized that the assistance fulfils a campaign pledge made by Dr. Mohamed Yakub Janabi, the WHO Regional Director for Africa. “We are happy to deliver completely equipped ambulances, vital medical equipment and supplies, estimated USD 600,000,” Dr. Olu said.
He emphasised that the ambulances are fully equipped to serve a variety of functions, such as the transfer of critically ill patients for general purposes, mobile clinics, and mobile intensive care units.
Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Health, thanked WHO for the assistance. “We sincerely thank the World Health Organization for donating these ambulances with medical equipment and supplies.” She announced, “This is the best donation we have received.”
Dr. Kpoto added that the ambulances will enhance care for critically ill patients and bolster emergency response services, particularly through the central Emergency Medical Services at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Monrovia.
It is reported that WHO will help the Ministry of Health with transportation, installation, and health worker training to ensure proper use and maintenance of the equipment. This aid improves access to essential supplies and strengthens Liberia’s capacity to manage emergency care services, particularly for women and babies who are most in need.
Photo credit: MOH Media Team
Reported by: Naneka A. Hoffman
