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By: Emmanuel Tarpeh Quiah
MARYLAND–Aug- 7-In a milestone development for southeastern Liberia’s health sector, the Pleebo Health Center has officially dedicated a newly constructed modern Outpatient Department (OPD), aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare for thousands of residents in Maryland County.
The dedication ceremony, held Thursday, August 7, 2025, brought together local authorities, health workers, community members, and development partners in a celebration of what many described as a significant boost to public health services in one of the county’s most densely populated districts.
Welcoming guests to the event, the Resident Doctor of Pleebo Health Center, Dr. Shadrick Gono, extended appreciation to the government of Liberia and international partners for their unwavering support. He emphasized that the new facility will play a crucial role in addressing the increasing demand for outpatient services in the Pleebo-Sodoken District.
Health Center Administrator, Mr. Garrison Sayor, who provided a detailed project overview, disclosed that the construction cost of the OPD amounted to US$15,329.90. He noted that 81 percent of the funding was secured from international donors, while the remaining 19 percent came from the Government of Liberia through its national budget.
“This facility is part of our broader vision to decongest existing wards and enhance the quality and efficiency of services we offer,” Mr. Sayor explained. “With the increasing number of patients we receive daily, this OPD is a timely and much-needed addition.”
Mr. Sayor highlighted the health center’s transformation from a modest one-room clinic to a comprehensive healthcare facility now staffed with three resident doctors — a first in the institution’s history.
“What we are witnessing today is the fruit of years of dedication, teamwork, and strategic investment. From humble beginnings, we have grown into a facility that serves thousands annually. And this is only the beginning,” he added.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. Speaking on behalf of the Maryland County Health Team, Mr. Ujene Kroma lauded the OPD’s completion but raised concern about the lack of a surgical theater at the center.
“This facility has come a long way, but the absence of a fully equipped surgical theater remains a critical gap,” Mr. Kroma stressed. “We must work together, the health team, government, and partners to ensure that this issue is urgently addressed.”
Local authorities echoed similar sentiments, pledging their continued support to the health center.
Superintendent of Pleebo-Sodoken Statutory District, Hon. Aloysius Williams, praised the initiative as a “major leap forward” in strengthening healthcare delivery.
“Healthcare is a shared responsibility. I commend the center’s leadership for this achievement, and my office stands ready to support efforts to fill remaining gaps,” Superintendent Williams said.
Also speaking, Pleebo City Mayor Hon. Larry G. Geekor reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to working with the health center on future development projects.
“Our support goes beyond words. We will mobilize, advocate, and stand by this institution to ensure that residents of Pleebo receive the healthcare they deserve,” Mayor Geekor declared.
With the inauguration of the new OPD, the Pleebo Health Center is expected to improve patient flow, reduce waiting times, and enhance overall service delivery. As the center continues to expand its capacity and staffing, calls for additional specialized services, including surgery, maternal health, and emergency care remain high on the agenda.
Health officials and local leaders expressed optimism that with sustained government backing and donor support, the Pleebo Health Center will continue its transformation into a model for rural healthcare delivery in Liberia.
Alphonso Toweh
Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters
He holds first MA with honors in International Relations and a candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict Resolution from the University of Liberia.