MOH Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit Receives Vehicle from WHO to Boost National Response

The Neglected Tropical Diseases Unit of the Ministry of Health (MOH) recently received a Toyota Land Cruiser Hardtop from the World Health Organization (WHO) to support Liberia’s fight against Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). The presentation of the vehicle took place at the Ministry’s office in Congo Town. The vehicle will be used to enhance outreach efforts in remote and underserved areas where NTDs are most prevalent. Receiving the vehicle on behalf of the Minister of Health, Dr. Louise Mapleh Kpoto; the Chief Medical Officer/RL, Dr. Catherine Thomas Cooper, expressed gratitude, noting the critical role of transportation in addressing Neglected Tropical Diseases. “This vehicle will empower our NTD team to reach the remotest parts of Liberia where these diseases are often found,” Dr. Cooper stated. The Chief Medical Officer continued: “We’re also grateful for the broader support under the TRANSFORM Project, which is helping us advance toward eliminating these diseases.” She added that the Neglected Tropical Diseases program has long struggled with limited resources, particularly in transport, hindering field monitoring, case detection and routine supervision. The Acting Country Representative of WHO Liberia Office,Dr. Olushayo Olu, said the presentation of the vehicle was part of a joint partnership between WHO and the TRANSFORM consortium; comprising Effect Hope, Hope Rises International and Anesvad Foundation. “Together, we aim to strengthen Liberia’s NTD response by enhancing the logistical capacity of the national NTD program,” Dr. Olu said. The usage of the vehicle is expected to improve healthcare service delivery, field monitoring, case detection & routine supervision in the affected counties across Liberia.