In a significant demonstration of international solidarity and commitment to health system strengthening, the World Health Organization (WHO), with support from the Global Fund and Flemming Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd., has donated a substantial consignment of Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) materials, laboratory diagnostic consumables, and essential medical supplies to the Ministry of Health. This timely contribution reflects the enduring partnership between Sierra Leone and its global health allies, underscoring a shared commitment to enhancing disease prevention, diagnostic capacity, and frontline health-worker protection.
The official handover ceremony took place at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) on Wilkinson Road, Freetown. The event was attended by the Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby; WHO Country Representative, Dr. Innocent Nuwagira Ameh; Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency (NPHA), Professor Foday Sahr; Deputy Executive Director, Alhaji Dr. Mohamed Alex Vandi; Madam Doris Harding, Laboratory Lead; Mr. Ralph Williams, IPC Lead; and several staff from the NPHA.
Receiving the donation on behalf of the Government, Dr. Demby expressed deep appreciation to WHO, the Global Fund, and Flemming Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd. for their continued technical and logistical support. He emphasized that these materials will significantly enhance operational capacity across health facilities, improve infection prevention measures, and empower frontline workers to deliver timely and effective care.
The donated laboratory materials are designated for the Central Public Health Reference Laboratory (CPHRL) located in Lakka, Freetown. These include:
- Yellow Fever IgM, qRT and reaction kits – used for early detection and confirmation of Yellow Fever cases
- RNA Extraction and Purification mini kits, QIAamp viral RNA and DNA Micro kits, RNeasy mini kits – essential for isolating high-quality genetic material for molecular diagnostics
- PBS tablets, glycerol for molecular biology, Safe Gel Stain, PCR plates – used in sample preparation, preservation, and visualization of nucleic acids
- Teflon tape rolls (vacuum or pulse), collection tubes – for safe and sterile sample handling
- Autoclavable micro-volume pipettes, Invitrogen Qubit reagents – for precise measurement and quantification of nucleic acids
- Genscript reagents (100 vials and 31 vials) – used in advanced molecular biology protocols
These supplies are critical for enhancing the laboratory’s capacity to conduct accurate, timely diagnostics for priority diseases, including viral hemorrhagic fevers and other epidemic-prone illnesses. By equipping CPHRL with these tools, the country is better positioned to detect, confirm, and respond to public health threats, thereby safeguarding communities and informing evidence-based interventions.
The IPC pillar also received a wide array of cleaning and hygiene materials, including:
- Heavy-duty gloves, rubber boots, long-stick brooms, shovels, and spider web removers – to ensure safe and thorough environmental cleaning
- Chlorine hypochlorite liquids, powder detergents, mopping buckets, cleaning mops with sticks, cleaning bowls, and towels – for effective disinfection and sanitation of health facilities
- Bin liners (100L) and 50L pedal-operated waste bins in red, yellow, and black – to support proper waste segregation and disposal
- Alcohol-Based Hand Rubs (ABHR) and liquid soaps (500ml bottles) – to promote hand hygiene and reduce healthcare-associated infections
These materials will be distributed to public health units, district hospitals, and key laboratories nationwide. Their deployment is vital to maintaining safe clinical environments, protecting healthcare workers, and preventing the spread of infectious diseases within health facilities.
This donation is more than a delivery of supplies—it is a reaffirmation of trust, collaboration, and shared responsibility. For the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency, it represents a strategic boost to national preparedness and response capabilities. For the Government and people of Sierra Leone, it is a tangible investment in health security and community wellbeing.
The Ministry of Health and the NPHA extend heartfelt appreciation to the World Health Organization, the Global Fund, and Fleming Fund UK Ltd. for this impactful contribution. As the country continues to build a resilient, science-driven health system, such partnerships remain indispensable in achieving universal health coverage and safeguarding the health of every Sierra Leonean.
Rachael A. Kuyembeh
Public Relations Unit
NPHA-SL