The United Nations Development Program (UNDP), has officially launched the renovation of the Tellewoyan Referral Hospital in Lofa County.
According to a release, the renovation work, marks a significant milestone in efforts to strengthen healthcare delivery in the region.
The hospital Administrator, Arthureen Tina Nessian, described the project as more than a “physical upgrade.”
“This renovation is about restoring dignity, improving patient care, and ensuring that every individual who walks through our doors receives treatment in a safe, modern, and compassionate environment.”
At the launch, Accelerated Community Development Program (ACDP) Interim Program Manager, Boye Johnson, spoke of the rationale for selecting the Tellewoyan Hospital.
Johnson said the ACDP, initially launched in 2022, and co-funded by the government, and UNDP, has since expanded to multiple counties.
The counties are Gbarpolu, River Cess, Bong, Lofa, and Nimba.
“Earlier this year, UNDP Liberia Resident Representative, Aliou Mamadou Dia, visited the hospital and pledged support after witnessing its urgent needs firsthand.”
Johnson further stated that the renovation, funded by UNDP with over US$186,000, will focus on the maternity ward, surgical ward, delivery room, and operating theater, including a solar-powered water facility.
“This is about restoring dignity to both patients and staff.”
Dr. Moses Weidehgar, Lofa County Health Officer, thanked UNDP and partners for their support. Weidehgar underscored the importance of sustaining and improving the county’s health system under government’s ARREST agenda.
District Commissioner David Mawolo praised the initiative.
Mawolo said investments in local healthcare will reduce the need for costly medical travel abroad.
He also appealed for expanded Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) programs in the county to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.
UNDP Liberia Team Leader for Inclusive Governance, Stanley Kamara, highlighted four priority areas identified by the UNDP Resident Representative.
The areas included
repairing the facility; equipping it with essential medical tools; improving energy access and ensuring water availability.
Kamara described the project as a strategic investment to save lives and enhance healthcare in the county.
Representative Thomas A. Goshua of Grand Bassa District #5 and Chairman of the WASH Legislative Caucus, commended the collaborative effort and underscored the long-term impact of UNDP and ACDP interventions in the country.
While performing the official launch of the Tellewoyan Hospital project, Goshua urged government to meet its funding commitments to sustain such transformative projects.
The renovation of the Tellewoyan Referral Hospital stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and progress, laying the foundation for a healthier future for the people of Lofa County and beyond.