(Lofa County, March 18, 2025) The Ministry of Health (MOH) has extended its Community Pharmacy Program pilot phase to nine key health facilities in Lofa County. This follows a comprehensive assessment conducted from March 9 to 16, 2025, to identify healthcare needs in the county. The selected facilities include Telewayon Hospital, Kolahun Hospital, Vahun Health Center, Worsonga Health Center, Bolahun Clinic, Sorlumba Clinic, Barkedu Clinic, Konia Clinic, and Salayea Clinic. The Community Pharmacy Program seeks to address persistent shortages of essential medicines in rural and underserved areas. The decentralization of pharmaceutical services across the country is meant to provide equitable access to medications, strengthen local healthcare systems, and improve overall community health. The expansion to Lofa County is expected to enhance healthcare delivery, particularly in remote districts where medical supplies have historically been limited.
Dr. Rafael Sharmavu, the Ministry of Health Community Pharmacy Program’s head, explained the program’s importance during a town hall meeting with local leaders and health workers. “This initiative represents a critical step in bringing quality healthcare closer to the people. By strengthening pharmaceutical services in these facilities, we are improving health outcomes and building a more resilient healthcare system for the future,” he said.
The expansion is being carried out in collaboration with FARA, a key partner in the initiative. Their support has been instrumental in providing technical expertise, logistical coordination, and funding to facilitate the program’s rollout. The partnership between MOH and FARA highlights the government’s broader effort to enhance public health infrastructure through strategic collaborations.
As the pilot phase progresses, the Ministry of Health aims to use the program as a model for future national healthcare initiatives. The ultimate goal is to achieve nationwide pharmaceutical coverage, ensuring that all Liberians, particularly those in remote and hard-to-reach areas, benefit from improved access to essential medicines. This expansion marks a significant milestone in the government’s ongoing commitment to strengthening healthcare delivery across the country. The MOH assures the public of its commitment to ensuring that communities have reliable access to essential medications as well as accessible and quality healthcare services.