By: Staff Writer
One Health in Action Liberia (OHIAL), a leading nonprofit, non-political, and nongovernmental organization committed to uniting human, animal, and environmental health efforts, has concluded a high-level stakeholders’ meeting at CEPRESS International University in Gbarnga, Bong County.
The gathering brought together key representatives from government agencies, academic institutions, civil society, and international partners, all aligning to support OHIAL’s vision of a resilient and healthier Liberia.
The meeting was opened by OHIAL’s Executive Director, D. Alexson Barpeen, who outlined the core objectives and mission of the organization. He emphasized the necessity of a multisectoral response to Liberia’s health challenges and reiterated OHIAL’s commitment to empowering youth and fostering collaboration across sectors.
“One Health in Action Liberia is not just a concept, it is a movement. We believe that true health security comes from recognizing the connection between people, animals, and the environment. Through education, policy, and grassroots engagement, we aim to build a more prepared and resilient Liberia,” Mr. Barpeen stated.
The organization’s mission, he noted, focuses on building a national One Health workforce, engaging youth leaders, advancing public education, and promoting policy advocacy. “OHIAL envisions a Liberia where communities are not only aware of health threats but are also equipped to prevent and respond through integrated strategies”? Said Barpeen.
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Advertus Nyan Mianah, Coordinator of the Liberia One Health Platform, lauded OHIAL’s leadership and reaffirmed the platform’s commitment to a shared national agenda. “I am truly inspired by the work being done here,” he said. “OHIAL’s proactive approach is a model we can replicate across the country. Collaboration is not an option, it is essential if we are to prevent pandemics and protect our environment.”
Bong County Administrator Mr. Sam Elliott expressed strong support for the initiative. In his remarks, he said, “The integration of human, animal, and environmental health is vital to preventing future outbreaks and promoting sustainable development. Bong County fully supports OHIAL in its goal to build healthier communities.”
Other dignitaries present included Mr. Asa Chon, Country Director of ForumCIV Liberia; Dr. Jefferson Saybay, Bong County Health Officer; and Mr. Emmanuel Diabolo, a key member of OHIAL’s Board of Directors. Their participation signaled broad-based support for the organization’s work.
Institutional and organizational representation included the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Federation of Liberian Youths, and universities in Gbarnga and its surrounding areas. These stakeholders emphasized the importance of integrating health education and advocacy into Liberia’s academic and policy frameworks.
The meeting concluded with a strong call to action for continued collaboration and investment in One Health approaches. Participants agreed that intersectoral efforts are crucial in addressing Liberia’s most pressing health issues, particularly in light of global concerns about climate change, zoonotic diseases, and environmental degradation.
As Mr. Barpeen aptly noted, “This is not the end, it’s the beginning of a stronger, united response to Liberia’s health challenges. Together, we can build a future where every community is prepared, informed, and resilient.”
