In a significant advancement for healthcare in Liberia,
President JosephNyuma Boakai over the weekend officiated the groundbreaking ceremony for the country’s first standalone Radiotherapy Center at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK). This milestone development aimed to enhance cancer care and address various health challenges faced by Liberians.
Pres. Boakai described the event as a “beacon of hope” for the nation.
“Today, we are not just laying the foundation for a building; we are laying the foundation for a healthier country,” he said.
“This Radiotherapy Centeris a promise fulfilled and a clear demonstration of my administration’s commitment to make quality healthcare accessible to all.”
The center is to transform the countrys fight against cancer, which has been a growing public health concern. With cervical, breast, liver, and prostate cancers accounting for over 70 percent of new diagnoses; the Radiotherapy Center aims to reduce mortality rates and alleviate the burden of patients who currently seek expensive treatments abroad.
The project has garnered supports from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) through its Rays of Hope initiative, which focuses on expanding global access to radiotherapy services.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, referred to the center as a major milestone in the country ’s healthcare framework.
Dr Kpoto emphasized the center’s integration in the national health strategy.
She highlighted its potential to reduce the costs and challenges associated with seeking treatment outside the country.
“This center will not only provide life-saving radiotherapy treatment, but also serve as a hub for research, training, and capacity development,” Dr. Kpoto .
“It reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to enhancing specialized healthcare services.” Expressing her enthusiasm, Dr. Kpoto sai:
“Today, I am overwhelmed with joy as we break ground for this landmark facility. The lack of local radiotherapy options has forced many to seek care abroad, often at great personal and financial cost. This center will change that narrative.”
JFK CEO, Dr. Linda A. Birch, described the Radiotherapy Center as a critical intervention for the health sector.
“This Radiotherapy Center will not only save lives, but will also improve outcomes for cancer patients across the country,”
“We are deeply grateful to the IAEA and the government for making this vision a reality.”
The ceremonial turning of the soil, which symbolized the official commencement of construction.
The Radiotherapy Center is expected to play a transformative role in the country’s healthcare landscape, enhancing the nation’s capacity to tackle cancer and restore hope to thousands of families in need.