Monrovia, 30 August 2023: In a resounding testament to Liberia's unwavering dedication to health security, the Ministry of Health in Liberia has announced its readiness to host the second Joint External Evaluation (JEE) of core capacities, as defined by the International Health Regulations (IHR). This notable step underscores Liberia's commitment to global health security and signifies a significant milestone in the nation's ongoing efforts to safeguard public health.

The Joint External Evaluation (JEE) serves as a crucial milestone in the journey towards achieving global health security, aligning with the principles set forth in the International Health Regulations (IHR-2005) – a binding agreement endorsed by 196 nations. Since 2005, all WHO member states had ratified the IHR, demonstrating their commitment to developing and maintaining core competencies to effectively manage epidemic and pandemic-related health threats while minimizing disruptions to international travel and trade, and protecting the well-being of its citizens.

At a press briefing held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Dr. Julius S. M. Gilayeneh, Deputy Director for Technical Services at NPHIL, representing the Minister of Health, unveiled that the upcoming second Joint External Evaluation (JEE) will evaluate Liberia's health security capabilities based on prescribed core capacities outlined in the International Health Regulations. The evaluation is scheduled to take place from September 4 to 8 at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Monrovia.

Dr. Gilayeneh emphasized the significance of the Joint External Evaluation (JEE) within the context of the one health approach, underlining its role as a critical component of the monitoring and assessment mechanism stipulated by the International Health Regulations.

Liberia conducted its inaugural JEE in 2016, utilizing the JEE 1.0 tool, resulting in an overall preparedness score of 46 percent. This critical evaluation prompted the creation of the National Action Plan for Health Security for the period, 2018 to 2023, strategically designed to address identified gaps and recommendations stemming from the 2016 JEE. Following the completion of this second evaluation, Liberia will be among the nations adopting the upgraded JEE tool 3.0 for a comprehensive assessment of core capacities.

Dr. Gilayeneh expressed, "As a nation, we have diligently addressed recommendations from the initial evaluation, bolstering our ability to effectively manage crises, as evidenced in our response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The dedication of our health workers, professionals, stakeholders, and partners has been instrumental in achieving these milestones."

The JEE brings together a diverse assembly of international experts every five years, facilitating collaborative introspection into Liberia's preparedness, detection, prevention, and response capabilities. This collective appraisal identifies priority actions to enhance these essential capacities.

Speaking on behalf of the WHO Representative to  Liberia, the Officer In Charge- Dr. Musu Julie Duworko, commended Liberia's commitment to health security as evidenced by strategic measures, such as a midterm review in 2019, an evaluation of the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) in 2022, and a comprehensive self-assessment in July 2023.

“Liberia has consistently demonstrated its dedication to health security by conducting a midterm review in 2019, evaluating the implementation of the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) in 2022, and performing a self-assessment in July 2023, all in preparation for the upcoming second JEE.”

She further elaborated that despite challenges posed by COVID-19, Liberia's resolute spirit prevails as the nation prepares for this pivotal event which will inform the development of the next National Plan of Action for Health Security (NAPHS). WHO and partners will continue to support the government through the process.

“Post the JEE, Liberia will revise its National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS) and create a resource roadmap for its implementation from 2023 to 2027. This updated version will be shaped by the recommendations arising from the JEE”, said Dr. Duworko.

“The second JEE also provides an opportunity to evaluate the investments made by the Liberian government in collaboration with partners, following the Ebola outbreak and during the COVID-19 pandemic in building a resilient health system using the one health and whole of government, whole of society approach. Through these combined efforts, we are steadfastly advancing towards a Liberia where the health and well-being of every individual are safeguarded”, expressed Dr. Duworko.

The press briefing was attended by notable dignitaries, including representatives from the Ministry of Health, NPHIL, WHO, FAO, USAID, among others.

Dr. Gilayeneh concluded by urging all Liberians to recognize the significance of the upcoming JEE and the government's commitment to strengthening health security and the overall health system as an investment in the nation's health and prosperity. He expressed confidence that Liberia will continue to demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and steadfast determination to protect its citizens and contribute to global health security.

This crucial exercise is a collaborative effort between the Liberian government, bolstered by the partnership support of the World Bank's REDISSE project, and the World Health Organization (WHO).