Health workers across Sierra Leone are now better equipped to detect, monitor, and respond to health threats thanks to a major donation from the World Health Organization (WHO). Supplies and equipment valued at USD 456,483.20 were handed over to the Ministry of Health (MoH) and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), enhancing disease surveillance, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) tracking, and emergency preparedness.
At a ceremony in Freetown, WHO Country Representative Dr. George Ameh officially presented the equipment to the Deputy Minister of Health 1 and the Executive Director of the NPHA, alongside senior officials from both institutions.
With support from the Fleming Fund, six computers were provided to the Pharmacy Board to digitize antimicrobial importation data, enabling real-time monitoring in line with global AMR guidance. Meanwhile, the Pandemic Fund supplied 92 tablets to strengthen the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system, allowing health workers nationwide to collect and transmit data electronically for faster outbreak detection.
Additionally, the Global Fund supported the operationalization of five regional Emergency Operations Centres (EOCs) in Bo, Western Area Rural, Port Loko, Kenema, and Bombali, improving coordination for public health interventions.
Dr. Ameh emphasized the strategic impact: “By digitizing systems and equipping regional structures, this support boosts real-time disease monitoring, improves decision-making, and ensures faster responses to outbreaks.” Deputy Minister Prof. Charles Senessie added, “With these tools, we can detect, analyze, and respond to health threats more effectively, safeguarding our people.”
The donation strengthens Sierra Leone’s health resilience by enhancing AMR surveillance, electronic reporting, and regional preparedness, reflecting WHO’s commitment, alongside the Fleming Fund, the Pandemic Fund, and the Global Fund, to building a stronger, more sustainable health system.
Related Posts
