By H Matthew Turry
MONROVIA – Plan International Liberia has revealed its readiness to enhance efforts in ending tuberculosis, HIV, and malaria in Liberia.
Miriam Murray, Country Director of Plan International Liberia emphasized that the tireless efforts to combat TB continue and that all should be committed at all times to combat anything that stops or interferes with the development of the young people, women, girls, and the communities.
“TB presents as one of the world health challenges, its equivalent is high in Liberia and should be made a serious concern to ensure that everyone is onboard to end TB in Liberia”, she remarked at a program marking World TB Day.
According to the latest data from WHO, one life is lost every 78 seconds globally. The situation demands renewed commitment and sustained investments to end TB as a public threat on the continent and beyond.
Despite Liberia’s TB Control Program significant strides in the fight against the deadly disease, yet there is more to do, according to WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged all member states, policymakers, health care providers, civil society and partners to step up, and act with urgency to close the TB funding gap by increasing investments at national and international levels.
On March 24, 2025, the Ministry of Health (MoH) in Collaboration with partners celebrated World TB Day under the theme “Yes! We Can End TB – Commit – Invest – Deliver” brought together WHO, Plan Liberia, The Global Fund, Partners in Health, Carter Center among others. Also in attendance were students from across Montserrado County. The program which began with a parade from the premises of the MoH was held at the Paynesville City Hall,
Making welcome remarks, Rufus G. Saye said the gathering is a call to action to combat the deadliest disease as a community united, resolved to confront TB head on, from government officials, health care workers, civil society organizations to members of the media, who play critical roles in the effort.
“We acknowledge the challenges before us but we also recognize the incredible progress we have already made together through concerted effort and unwavering commitment we have proven time and again that we possess the tools and knowledge and resolve to defeat TB”, he said.
Reflecting on the theme and drawing inspiration from the countless individuals and communities in the country and around the world, he urged them to reaffirm their commitment to ending TB once and for all. “Let us rededicate ourselves to the principal of equity of solidarity and justice that lie at the heart of our fight against TB,” Saye added, continuing, “Let us continue to work tirelessly until every individual in every corner of our country have access to care and support they need to live healthy and fulfilling life.”
Delivering the keynote of the World TB Day 2025, Senator Dabah M. Varpilah, Chairperson on Health Committee at the Liberian Senate acknowledged that the day resonates profound significance, recognizing the burden that TB puts on the communities, calling for a joint fight this disease
“We must confront obstacles like misinformation and inadequate funding. We reaffirm our commitment at the Liberian Senate in the fight against TB. This is a call to action for a TB-free Liberia and the time is now. We are calling for community engagements and we consider ourselves as ambassadors against TB,” she told the audience.
In closing, the Grand Cape Mount County Senator, urged the public to not only reflect on the significance of the program but ensure sincere collective efforts in the fight against the deadly killer disease.
The First Lady of the Republic of Liberia Madame Kartumu Y. Boakai, who is the National TB ambassador, reaffirmed her role to improve the health and wellbeing of all citizens. She thanked the Ministry of Health and partners that have continued to support this cause, mentioning that TB remains a significant public health concern worldwide and even in Liberia today.
“While we have made great efforts in the fight against this disease, much needs to be done. Ending TB is possible but the required and collective commitment and strategic investment and unwavering dedication to deliver on our promises” the First Lady stated.
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