Experts Convene in Paynesville to Revise Liberia One Health Governance Manual

Experts from Liberia’s One Health sectors and partners convened for a three-day workshop to revise the country’s One Health Governance Manual. Supported by the Africa Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the workshop began on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at the Golden Gate Hotel in Paynesville. 

The event brings together representatives from key ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Health (MoH), Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), Liberia National Police (LNP), Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), and the Forestry Development Authority (FDA). International organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) also participated, alongside civil society groups like the Public Health Initiative (PHIL). 

The One Health Governance Manual provides the guiding framework for implementing Liberia’s multisectoral approach to address health threats at the human-animal-environment interface. This revision aims to align the manual with emerging global health challenges, lessons learned, and innovative approaches to improve efficiency and impact. 

Mr. Advertus Nyan Mianah, National One Health Coordinator, thanked participants and partners for their dedication. “Revising this manual is a vital step toward strengthening Liberia’s One Health governance. I appreciate Africa CDC and all stakeholders for their support and look forward to a successful revision and subsequent validation process in 2025 to ensure inclusiveness and alignment. Together, we can advance the health of our people, animals, and environment,” he said.

The Africa CDC also reaffirmed its support for strengthening One Health initiatives across member states. In a statement on behalf of Africa CDC, Dr. Musa Abdullahi highlighted the importance of collaboration and capacity-building in advancing Africa’s health security. 

Dr. Dougbeh Chris Nyan, Director General of NPHIL, emphasized the importance of the revision during the opening ceremony. “A robust governance framework is essential for Liberia’s readiness to tackle zoonotic diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and other health threats that require collective efforts. This review is a step toward strengthening Liberia’s health security systems,” he said. 

The revision process will include discussions on enhancing coordination among One Health stakeholders, streamlining decision-making processes, and exploring the integration of additional technical working groups. 

Liberia adopted the One Health concept in 2016, recognizing its value in aligning human, financial, and logistical resources efficiently. The country launched its One Health Platform in 2017 with a “Declaration of Commitment” signed by key ministries, endorsed by then-Vice President, now President, H.E. Joseph N. Boakai. The first One Health Governance Manual was launched in 2018, defining roles and responsibilities for the Steering Committee, Technical Committee, and Technical Working Groups (TWGs). 

This workshop builds on Liberia’s 2023 Joint External Evaluation (JEE) and subsequent initiatives, including the 2022 National Action Plan for Health Security and the One Health Strategic Plan. The revised manual will guide the country in developing strategies and guidelines in responding to public health threats and addressing global health security.