The World Health Organization (WHO) has made a significant donation of medications to the Ministry of Health in Liberia to support the country’s efforts in combating neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).
The donation, which took place on May 10, 2024, at the Central Medical Stores (CMS) in Liberia, is expected to benefit millions of people who are affected by NTDs.
The Albendazole tablets, earmarked for the prevention and treatment of Lymphatic Filariasis and Soil Transmitted Helminths, will benefit over 1.5 million persons in 13 endemic counties, while the Praziquantel tablets will target 2.4 million persons in 6 endemic counties for Schistosomiasis, marking a significant step forward in the national efforts to combat these parasitic infections.
This effort aligns with WHO’s NTD roadmap and Liberia’s National NTD Master Plan, aiming for control and elimination by 2030.
Targeting over 2 million people, these tablets will help prevent and treat Lymphatic Filariasis, Soil Transmitted Helminths, and Schistosomiasis in endemic counties.
WHO representative, Clement Peter, emphasized the organization’s commitment to helping Liberia in dealing with NTDs. He highlighted the devastating impact of these diseases on individuals, families, and communities, and reiterated the importance of addressing them to improve public health and well-being.
“This consignment is part of WHO’s ongoing support for the Neglected Tropical Diseases program, ensuring medicines are available to aid in efforts to control and eradicate these diseases. Through our long-standing partnership with the Ministry of Health and our donors, we continue to commit ourselves to improving the health and well-being of the Liberian people by providing these medications, which are completely free. We also extend our gratitude to the World Food Program (WFP) for their excellent service in maintaining the Central Medical Stores and ensuring systems are in place for accountability.”
On behalf of the Government of Liberia, Louise M. Kpoto, Liberia’s Minister of Health, expressed her gratitude to the WHO for the generous donation.
She described the medications as crucial in the country’s efforts to control and eliminate NTDs, and she welcomed the support from the WHO in this critical area of public health, and also termed the donation as a timely effort towards buttressing the government’s 100-day deliverables.
Health Minister Kpoto also assured the WHO of the Government’s commitment to making sure the donated drugs reach to those in need to the last miles of Liberia.
“Neglected tropical diseases affect millions of people in Liberia, particularly those in low-income and marginalized communities. These diseases, which include conditions such as river blindness, lymphatic filariasis, stomatitis, and soil-transmitted helminthiasis, can cause severe disability and suffering if left untreated”, she said.
The donation of medications by the WHO is a significant step forward in Liberia’s fight against NTDs. The provision of essential drugs will enable the Ministry of Health to expand its treatment programs and reach more individuals who are affected by these debilitating diseases.
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.
Overall, the WHO’s support in combating neglected tropical diseases demonstrates the organization’s dedication to promoting global health and equity. Through collaborative efforts with government agencies and partners, the WHO continues to make a meaningful impact in addressing public health challenges and improving the lives of those affected by NTDs.
