2nd September, 2016 - The Liberia Ministry of Health with support from the World Bank and the World Health Organization (WHO) dedicated the “Dr Walter T. Gwenigale Electronic Library” at Phebe Regional Hospital. The Library which is a training resource will facilitate easy access to real time information by health workers. Improving access to health information will contribute towards building a fit-for-purpose health workforce which is a key priority of the Liberia Investment Plan to Building a Resilient Health System.

The facility was officially handed over by the Minister of Health Dr Bernice Dahn to Phebe Regional Hospital. In her remarks, she emphasized that building a fit for purpose workforce requires quality information and access to quality training resources. The Minister said that there are plans to establish similar training resources in other health training sites to improve research capacities of students, Instructors, trainers and health workers. Dr Dahn also disclosed that plans were underway to construct a Regional Public Health Reference Laboratory at the Phebe Hospital campus that will serve Bong and neighboring counties. She thanked all partners for supporting the establishment of the library.

Dr Walter T. Gwenigale the former Minister of Health in whose honor the Library was named, expressed his appreciation to the Ministry of Health, WHO and partners for supporting this initiative. The electronic library he said would enhance access to free Medical journals for students and appealed for more support to ensure its sustainability.

Dr Alex Gasasira, WHO Representative in Liberia underscored the critical role of investing in high quality training standards of health workers as an important ingredient for building a more resilient health system for Liberia. He appreciated the partnership with the Ministry of Health, the Post Graduate College, and Liberia Medical and Dental Council in this regard.  Dr Gasasira also expressed his gratitude to the World Bank for providing the funding for the library project and pledged continued support to different aspects of the health worker’s training both at undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

Others who made remarks included, Dr Gorbee Logan County Health Officer Bong County, Dr Jefferson Sibley Director Phebe Hospital, Hon. Edward W. Karfiah Bong County Legislative Caucus Representative, and Hon Selena Polson Superintendent Bong County who expressed appreciation to MOH for initiating this project in Bong County.

____________________________

For more information contact:

Communication: Luwaga Liliane, Email:luwagal [at] who.int" target="_blank"> luwagal [at] who.int