Monrovia: The World Health Organization (WHO) on 6^th August donated a consignment of medical equipment and medicines to support the country's efforts in combating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) and strengthening WHO PEN-Plus programs aimed at addressing severe NCDs at the primary healthcare level.  

The items donated include Mectizan tablets for the prevention and treatment of Lymphatic Filariasis and Onchocerciasis, supplies for the testing and treatment of Yaws, digital electrocardiogram machines and spare parts and Glucometer and pens to address severe NCDs at the primary health care level.

Speaking during the donation ceremony, WHO Representative in Liberia Dr. Clement Peter said the NCD supplies are for scaling up WHO PEN Plus in Bong and Lofa Counties. “ The PEN Plus program is WHO Flagship program focused on an integrated care delivery strategy to alleviate  the Noncommunicable disease (NCD) burden among the population by increasing the accessibility and quality of chronic care services for severe NCDs—such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatic heart disease, and sickle cell disease at the Primary Care level.” Dr. Clement said.

“The NTD Supplies are for the control and treatment of Yaws in endemic communities in Liberia. We hope that Liberia will be able to eliminate some of these NTDs in the soonest possible time.” Dr. Clement added.

He reconfirmed WHO’s commitment to supporting the government in improving the quality of healthcare in Liberia.

In separate remarks, the Directors of the NCD and NTD programs thanked WHO and emphasized that the diagnostic tools are very important and are needed in the implementation of PEN Plus activities that are aimed at reducing the mobility and mortality of NCDs and the NTD medicines will be used to treat people with Lymphatic Filariasis free of charge.

On behalf of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Catherine Cooper, Liberia's Deputy Minister and Chief Medical Officer, expressed her gratitude to the WHO for the generous donation. She described the donation as crucial in the country's efforts to control and eliminate NTDs and address severe cases of NCDs, especially at the Primary Healthcare level.   Minister Cooper highlighted the Government's commitment to making sure the donated drugs reach those in need to the last miles of Liberia.

“The donation of medicines and supplies by the WHO is a significant step forward in Liberia's fight against NTDs and NCDs and will be distributed and   used for the people in need, especially at the last mile.” Dr. Copper said.

By addressing NTDs, the country can improve the health and quality of life of its population and work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals related to health and well-being. The introduction of NCD-specific responses at primary healthcare levels in Liberia will contribute to the decline in NCD trends, while informing enhanced policy dialogue on health parity, through improved access to NCD-related services for those in rural communities who often struggle to access these services.