(Paynesville, Liberia, June 18, 2026)— The Ministry of Health (MOH) has broken ground for the construction of a 116-bed Duport Road Maternity Hospital to expand maternal and child health services in Montserrado County.
The facility is funded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and will transform the existing Duport Road Health Center into a fully functional hospital upon completion.
The groundbreaking ceremony brought together senior government officials, lawmakers, health professionals, development partners, and community leaders.
Delivering remarks, Health Minister Dr. Louise M. Kpoto said the project aligns with Liberia’s healthcare development agenda, particularly ongoing efforts to reduce maternal and neonatal mortality.
“First, I want to thank the church for this important project. We are deeply grateful. I also thank the First Lady for her concern and support for the Duport Road Health Center. The launch of the 365-day action plan to reduce maternal and neonatal deaths demonstrates our commitment to improving health outcomes. Despite the challenges facing healthcare workers, we remain dedicated to serving our people. Continue to do your work with commitment and integrity, and your efforts will be rewarded,” Dr. Kpoto said.
The keynote address was delivered by First Lady Kartumu Yarta Boakai, who commended the partnership behind the initiative and emphasized the importance of sustained investment in healthcare.
“Last year, I was deeply concerned when I visited this facility and immediately sought ways to support it. I saw a community in great need and people deserving of better healthcare services and opportunities. When we invest in healthcare, we save lives and strengthen the future of our country. That is why I commend the church for supporting this project. We are building dignity, expanding access to healthcare, and investing in the future of Liberia,” the First Lady said.
Representing the donor institution, Elder Adeyinka Ojediran, President of the Africa West Area Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to community development and healthcare advancement.
“We, as a church, are pleased to partner with the Government of Liberia in implementing this project. We believe access to quality healthcare is not a privilege but a right for all. We also call on the community to safeguard this facility,” he said.
Also speaking at the ceremony, Representative Julie Fatorma Wiah, Chairperson of the House Committee on Health, described the project as a critical investment in public health and maternal care and expressed gratitude to the church for its support.
Following the remarks, dignitaries proceeded to the project site, where they participated in the ceremonial groundbreaking, officially launching construction works.
Upon completion, the hospital is expected to significantly enhance healthcare delivery in the Duport Road community and improve access to essential medical services for thousands of residents across Montserrado County.
The Ministry of Health expressed appreciation to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for its support and partnership in advancing healthcare services in Liberia.