The World Health Organization (WHO) has donated essential medical supplies to the Ministry of Health to support blood donation events and strengthen surveillance for Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). This will contribute to immediate access to safe blood for pregnant women experiencing hemorrhage after childbirth, a life-threatening complication, and contribute to early detection and control of HAT (sleeping sickness), a potentially fatal NTD, if left untreated.

The donation will support upcoming blood drives and ongoing Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) surveillance efforts. To facilitate the two blood drives scheduled in Margibi and Nimba Counties later this month by the Regional Blood Centers, the donation includes test kits for various diseases, blood bags, biohazard bags, needles, and syringes. The goal of each blood drive is to collect at least 150 safe blood units. Additionally, the donation provides supplies for HAT surveillance, such as blood lancets, capillary tubes, masks, gloves, and other essential items. During the donation ceremony, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Francis Kateh expressed gratitude on behalf of the Ministry of Health, acknowledging the WHO's crucial support in advancing Liberia's health agenda. He emphasized the importance of effective and efficient utilization of the supplies to maximize impact on the health programs.

“We continuously appreciate the cordial relationship we have as a Ministry with WHO, all in the interest of the people of Liberia. We will ensure effective and efficient use of the supplies we have received which will go a long way in saving lives of the people we serve”, said Dr. Kateh.The WHO Representative in Liberia, Dr. Clement Peter, highlighted the significance of the donation, addressing the shortage of safe blood in Liberia, especially for pregnant women and children and contributing to the elimination of Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT).

“Blood should be free; people should not pay for it -this donation will help to ensure that pregnant women and children have access to the blood they need. The drive aims at raising awareness on the importance of voluntary blood donation. We look at this as an entry point for more sustained drives in the coming year. We believe that what works in other countries can also work in Liberia”, said Dr. Peter Clement.

“On the Human African Trypanosomiasis donation, the focus is on eradicating these Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). The two previously affected counties, including Bong, have not reported any cases recently. Let’s aim to sustain this status through active surveillance efforts”, emphasized Dr. Clement.

Liberia faces a high maternal mortality rate, with a significant portion attributed to postpartum hemorrhage. The lack of access to safe and quality blood products for pregnant women and children remains a critical barrier to reducing maternal and child mortality.

The blood drive and NTD supplies donation are part of the broader USAID and ESPEN-funded programs supported through the WHO, aimed at improving the quality of health services in Liberia.