NPHIL Cautioned

Othello Sarweh Nimely

During the dedication of the National Public Health Emergency Operation Center (EOC) in Monrovia over the weekend, the Office of the President of the Republic of Liberia cautioned the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) not to view the new facility as a finish line, but rather as the starting point of preparedness and improved public health readiness.

Speaking on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., Political Advisor Madam MacDella Cooper urged NPHIL to use the EOC to advance its operations. She emphasized that the goal should not only be to fight diseases but to address the underlying complexities that allow them to spread.

Madam Cooper further noted that NPHIL must position itself as a beacon of hope during times of public health challenges. She commended the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) for its collaboration, saying it demonstrates that Liberia is not alone in its pursuit of stronger health systems.

In her remarks, the Interim Director-General of NPHIL, Dr. Sia Wata Camanor, expressed gratitude to the Africa CDC for its support in ensuring that Liberia meets the World Health Organization’s requirement for all member states to maintain a functional Health Emergency Operation Center.

Dr. Camanor disclosed that NPHIL now operates functional Emergency Operation Centers across all 15 counties, stressing that the system is not limited to the headquarters in Monrovia. She assured partners that the new facility will be used effectively and efficiently to strengthen Liberia’s public health surveillance and response.

The dedication program, held in the NPHIL conference room, brought together partners, medical practitioners, and staff of the institution.

The new Emergency Operation Center is expected to serve as a hub for managing public health emergencies, improving rapid response efforts, enhancing data management, and reinforcing Liberia’s overall health security systems.

Representing the Africa CDC, the institution that funded the project, Dr. Womi Eteng urged NPHIL and the Government of Liberia to utilize the new EOC for its intended purpose. He stressed the importance of evidence-based decision-making in addressing health emergencies.

Dr. Eteng also highlighted the need for adequate and well-trained staff to operate the center effectively. He encouraged NPHIL not only to focus on national health issues but also to participate in regional health discussions and contribute to solving public health emergencies across the region.

As Liberia continues to strengthen its public health systems, the commissioning of the new Emergency Operation Center marks a pivotal step toward building a more resilient nation.