Liberia Nurses Association Celebrates World Nurses Day with Outreach, Advocacy, and Community Engagement.

From Christian Appleton, GNN Maryland County Correspondent|

Harper, May 14, 2024 – The Liberia Nurses Association, Maryland County Chapter, led by Anita K. Jallah, wrapped up their annual celebration of World Nurses Day, a significant event magnificently sponsored by Partners in Health (PIH). This year’s theme, “Nurses: Our Future, Economic and Care,” highlighted the critical role nurses play in both healthcare provision and economic development.

The week-long festivity began with a clinical outreach initiative reaching the underserved populations in the rural area of Nekangbo Community and the prison compound in Harper. Over 200 prisoners received medical treatment during the visits on May 7-8, 2024, demonstrating the association’s commitment to healthcare accessibility.

A notable highlight was the May 11 reunion activities, which included a beach program during which nurses gifted a mini boat machine to the remote town of Puluken in Harper District. The boat will facilitate crossing patients over the water that borders the town, addressing a significant transportation barrier in medical emergencies.

The celebration continued with a Thanksgiving service at the Harvest Inter-Continental Church on May 12, followed by a friendly soccer match against students from William VS Tubman University. The festivities culminated on May 13 with a parade through the principal streets of Harper City, ending with an indoor program at the Harper City Hall. Here, a queen rally was held with Miss Annette C. Tubman crowned as the new face of the association, succeeding Decontee Hardy.

Approximately 350 nurses from across Maryland County gathered for the occasion. The event saw participation from various sectors including local government, health teams, and representatives from several community and corporate bodies such as Ecobank, International Bank, Cavalla Rubber Corporation, and Maryland Oil Palm Plantation.

Mr. Willis Archie Yansine, chairman of the planning committee, emphasized the event’s role in showcasing nursing as a noble profession and encouraged educational graduates, especially from William VS Tubman University, to consider a career in nursing.

The keynote speech delivered by Mrs. Lydia W. Johnson underscored the profound impact and challenges faced by nurses, advocating for better recognition, remuneration, and working conditions. She called for a revision of the salary structures for nurses, especially those in rural areas.

Dr. Sterman Toussaint, representing Partners in Health, praised the unity and dedication of the nurses and stressed the importance of collaboration in providing quality healthcare services.

Maryland County Health Officer Siedoh Freeman extended gratitude to all nurses for their tireless service and assured that the recommendations for improved salary structures would be considered seriously.

The event not only celebrated the heroic efforts of nurses but also highlighted the ongoing challenges they face, underscoring the need for systemic change to support and empower the nursing community in Liberia.

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