With support from the Susan Thompson Buffet Foundation, World Health Organization (WHO) and Ministry of Health concluded a joint assessment mission focused on enhancing maternal and newborn health (MNH) and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services across five rural counties in Liberia.  The joint mission took place from 11 May to 24 May 2025 in Gbarpolu, River Cess, Maryland, Grand Kru, and River Gee counties. Its overarching goal was to evaluate the readiness and robustness of health facilities and maternity waiting homes in providing MNH and SRHR services. This initiative provided a crucial opportunity to assess service readiness, strengthen facility-based practices, and ensure health workers are equipped with the necessary skills and tools. 

"As WHO kicked off a year-long campaign on maternal and newborn health this year, it is incumbent on us to support government efforts at the community level to end preventable maternal and newborn deaths and to prioritize women’s health and well-being in Liberia,” stated Dr. Musu Duworko, WHO Family Health and Population Advisor.

In each county, the mission team engaged with key stakeholders, including county health teams, healthcare practitioners, and community representatives. These dialogues focused on strengthening referral mechanisms to ensure timely and effective interventions.

"Health outcomes cannot be improved by a single entity or individual; it’s everyone’s responsibility," said Dr. Fokape Beyan Duyenku, OBGYN Specialist at the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital. "With support from all stakeholders and partners, the goal is to build a more responsive and inclusive health system that leaves no one behind," he added.

Following the mission's findings, WHO will continue providing targeted support to county health teams. This will include ongoing onsite mentorship, distributing standardized tools, and implementing evidence-based interventions to strengthen SRHR and MNH services. This collaborative effort underscores the shared commitment of WHO and the Ministry of Health to build a resilient and responsive health system, especially in Liberia's underserved rural counties.