AYV News, August 15, 2024
The World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Innocent Bright Nuwagira, handed over seven vehicles to the Minister of Health and Sanitation, Dr. Austin Demby, to enhance healthcare service delivery in Sierra Leone.
“We are pleased to transfer ownership of these seven vehicles. We refer to them as ‘6+1’ because six are field vehicles, while the ‘+1’ is a minibus,” Dr. Nuwagira explained. “The minibus had been parked at the WHO office for the past three months but has now been refurbished and reconditioned along with the Land Cruisers. They are fully ready for use and will help strengthen the health system in the country.”
During the handover ceremony, Dr. Austin Demby stated, “We have a clear vision for healthcare in this country, focusing on patient-centered care through our high-quality healthcare system. This will instill confidence in patients by ensuring no one is left behind. Although some of these vehicles have not been recently tested, they have been serviced and are ready for use. The need is greater than what we have, so these vehicles will remain at the headquarters rather than being distributed to the districts. They are crucial tools that will not only enable us to perform our duties but also to monitor and supervise our work. We don’t want people just sitting at Youyi Building; we need to be out there, observing what’s happening in Freetown, across all districts, hospitals, and clinics.”
The minister further emphasised, “As one of the few African countries that have significantly reduced infant and maternal mortality rates, we have set specific targets to continue lowering these rates in Sierra Leone. WHO has been a vital partner from the conceptualization to the development and implementation of this initiative.”
Dr. Nuwagira also expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We are delighted to contribute to the building and strengthening of the health system and service delivery, aligning with the mission and vision of the Ministry of Health and Sanitation. Indeed, no one will be left behind when it comes to healthcare, following the principles of universal health coverage and person-centered care in Sierra Leone.”
Minister Demby concluded by saying, “These vehicles will enhance service delivery, provide oversight, and ensure high-quality care for citizens. By doing so, we will transform the healthcare narrative in this country.”