Monrovia, Liberia – August 8, 2024

The JFK Medical Center has warmly welcomed the launch of a nationwide pharmaceutical waste collection program led by the Liberia Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Team. This important initiative seeks to tackle the challenge of expired and unusable pharmaceutical products throughout the country.

Dr. Emmanuel Willie, Research Coordinator for the Liberia Medicines and Health Products Regulatory Team, announced that the program will start with seven counties and will expand in a subsequent phase to cover additional regions.

During a recent event to welcome the regulatory team, Dr. Maima Debra Kiatamba, Director of Pharmacy at JFK Medical Center, stressed the hospital’s need to understand the nature and usability of the donations they receive. Dr. John Emmanuel Tamba , Chief Medical Officer, echoed this sentiment, requesting detailed lists of donated items to avoid receiving expired or unsuitable products.

Dr. Gbolomah Ketter, Montserrado County Pharmacist, assured that there will be collaboration with pharmacists across the country to assess hospital needs, ensuring that donations are both relevant and useful.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Administration, Mrs. Dama R. Yekeson Koffa, highlighted the issues caused by the arrival of expired medications, which often result in additional disposal costs. She emphasized the necessity of coordinating with donors to ensure that supplies are timely and appropriate, which will help JFK Medical Center manage resources effectively and meet patient needs.

JFK Medical Center remains dedicated to enhancing healthcare delivery and appreciates the ongoing support from its partners in this crucial initiative.