(Monrovia, Liberia, April 8, 2025)– The Ministry of Health (MOH) and key stakeholders including the Africa Center for Disease Control (Africa CDC) have convened a two-day validation exercise for the National Operational Plan, Care, Treatment, and Prevention Guidelines for Hepatitis B at JFK Medical Center. At the opening of the exercise, health experts, policymakers and development partners addressed Liberia’s high Hepatitis B prevalence.

Dr. Cuallau J. Howe, Assistant Minister for Preventive Services, described the validation as a ‘turning point’ in the nation’s fight against Hepatitis B, urging the need for sustained political will and investment.

Mr. Bakary Sonko, Africa CDC’s Senior Country Representative for Liberia, called for the urgency of collective action, stating, “Our collaboration is critical to bridging gaps in awareness, data, and treatment access.” Sonko reaffirmed Africa CDC’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s health system, particularly the National AIDS and STI Control Program (NACP). Similarly, LTC Dr. Joseph Kowo of the Armed Forces of Liberia underscored the importance of government support in implementing the plan. Meanwhile, Dr. Moses Jeuronlon, WHO’s Focal Point for HIV/Viral Hepatitis, noted that the updated guidelines align with WHO’s 2023 recommendations, ensuring Liberia’s approach remains evidence-based.

Dr. Jonathan Flomo, Program Director of the National AIDS and STI Control Program (NACP), outlined systemic challenges, including low public awareness, insufficient healthcare worker’ training, and limited access to affordable treatment. However, success hinges on multi-sectoral coordination—a point echoed by all speakers. Liberia has integrated Hepatitis B testing into maternal health services and blood screening. The validated guidelines aimed to streamline Liberia’s Hepatitis B response through 2030, focusing on prevention, early detection, and treatment scale-up.