Bringing Lifesaving Care Closer: Communities in Liberia Welcome New Ambulance to Strengthen Maternal Health Services

As Liberia works to reduce preventable maternal and newborn deaths, the United Nations—together with the Government of Liberia and development partners—is supporting stronger, more responsive health systems to ensure that every woman can give birth safely and with dignity.

Careysburg, Montserrado County, Liberia – Cheers, applause, and visible relief filled the air as health workers, local leaders, and community residents gathered to welcome a new, fully equipped ambulance at the Careysburg Health Center. For many, this was more than a ceremony—it was a moment of hope. 

The ambulance, along with two motorcycles to support outreach and supervision, was handed over by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) with funding from the Government and People of Japan, in support of Liberia’s efforts to improve maternal and newborn health services. 

A Shared Commitment to Saving Lives

This contribution forms part of a broader initiative to respond to maternal and newborn health emergencies in Montserrado County, one of the areas most affected by high maternal mortality rates. 

Through this partnership, the United Nations system, national authorities, and international donors are working together to address critical gaps in emergency referrals—often the difference between life and death for mothers and newborns.

At the official handover ceremony, partners reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening Liberia’s health system.

H.E. Yoshimoto Hiroshi, Ambassador of Japan to Liberia, reiterated Japan’s continued support to improving maternal and newborn health outcomes, emphasizing the importance of strong partnerships in delivering lifesaving services. 

Strengthening Health Systems, Delivering Results

The ambulance will directly support referrals from Careysburg and Barnersville Health Centers, helping ensure that women facing complications during pregnancy or childbirth receive timely care at higher-level facilities. 

The donation is complemented by ongoing infrastructure improvements at Careysburg Health Center, including the construction of a fully functional operating theatre to handle obstetric emergencies—further strengthening service delivery in underserved communities. 

Speaking on behalf of the United Nations, Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni underscored the broader impact of the initiative:

“This donation represents a critical step in accompanying Liberia on her journey of accelerating the reduction of preventable maternal and neonatal deaths, which is a cornerstone to the achievement of the human capital objectives of the country’s national agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals.” 

Community Impact: Faster Referrals, Safer Births

For health workers on the frontline, the new ambulance is a transformational resource.

Dr. Jewel Tarpeh-Kollie, Montserrado County Health Officer, highlighted the lifesaving importance of the intervention:

“Immediate referral is a critical step in ensuring every woman can give birth in safety and dignity.” 

Community leaders echoed this sentiment, noting that improved access to emergency transport will help address longstanding barriers to healthcare—especially in rural and peri-urban communities.

Senator Dabah Varpilah, Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, described the donation as:

“A physical manifestation of a shared commitment to the health and dignity of Liberians, especially mothers who rely on the facility for safe childbirth.” 

Investing in Liberia’s Future

For the Government of Liberia, the initiative reinforces national priorities to reduce maternal mortality and strengthen health systems across the country.

Hon. Whroway Bryant, Superintendent of Montserrado County, expressed appreciation and reaffirmed local commitment:

The county will ensure resources are made available to maintain these essential assets, recognizing that reducing preventable maternal deaths remains a top priority. 

UNFPA also emphasized the long-term value of sustained investments in maternal health.

Leonard Kamugisha, UNFPA Officer in Charge, noted:

Investment in maternal health translates into stronger human capital and long-term economic stability for Liberia. 

Delivering as One for Women and Girls

This initiative reflects the United Nations’ One UN approach—bringing together agencies, government, and partners to deliver integrated solutions that improve lives and advance national development priorities.

From infrastructure upgrades to emergency transport and community engagement, these efforts are helping ensure that no woman is left behind when it comes to accessing quality maternal healthcare.

As the celebrations at Careysburg Health Center demonstrated, the impact is already being felt.

For the nurses, midwives, and families who gathered that day, the ambulance is not just a vehicle—it is a lifeline.