13 September 2024 - The World Health Organization (WHO) handed over eight new emergency response vehicles to the Ministry of Health and Sanitation in Sierra Leone, a significant boost to the country's ability to manage public health emergencies, including Mpox and other infectious disease outbreaks. The donation includes two fully equipped ambulances and six utility vehicles, all aimed at enhancing Sierra Leone’s capacity to respond swiftly and effectively to health crises.

The vehicles were officially presented at a ceremony held at the Ministry’s headquarters, where senior leadership from the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA) were in attendance. Receiving the donation on behalf of the government, Hon. Minister of Health Dr. Austin Demby expressed deep appreciation for WHO’s continued support, acknowledging the organization as a consistent and reliable ally in strengthening Sierra Leone’s health security.

"We thank WHO for being a trusted partner, standing with us to identify problems and provide solutions” said Dr. Demby. The hon minister also thanked WHO for the last batch of vehicles (07) recently donated to the ministry about a month ago. The Hon Minister assured the WHO Country Representative: "The vehicles being donated will be used by the National Public Health Agency for their intended purpose — to prevent, prepare for, and respond promptly to disease outbreaks. The NPHA is on high alert for a potential Mpox outbreak, as there are already cases in our neighboring countries, and these vehicles will play a crucial role in our response efforts."

WHO Country Representative Dr. Innocent Nuwagira, who presented the vehicles, reiterated the organization's commitment to bolstering the country’s emergency preparedness. He noted that the donation is part of WHO’s broader Emergency Preparedness and Response (EPR) Flagship Initiative, designed to strengthen health systems and enhance readiness to address health emergencies globally.

“These vehicles will significantly improve Sierra Leone’s ability to investigate, confirm, and manage health emergencies efficiently, providing crucial logistical support to response teams,” Dr. Nuwagira stated. “With the continued collaboration between WHO, the Ministry of Health, and other partners, we are confident Sierra Leone will make great strides in safeguarding the health and well-being of its citizens.”

The vehicles will play a pivotal role in ensuring prompt investigation and management of health threats, reinforcing Sierra Leone's preparedness in the face of emerging public health challenges.

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