Dr. Sabenzia Wekesa Bids Farewell to Liberia Following Six Years of Dedicated Service
In an emotionally charged brief ceremony held on April 11, 2024, Dr. Sabenzia Wekesa, a distinguished Laboratory Expert from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), was honored for her remarkable contributions to Liberia’s veterinary and health sectors. After six years of dedicated service, Dr. Wekesaโs transformative mission in Liberia has drawn to a close, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and collaboration.
The brief ceremony was held at the ongoing Joint Risk Assessment (JRA) of three critical public health diseases: Lassa fever, Rabies, and Anthrax at the Golden Key Hotel in Paynesville.
Dr. Wekesa, hailing from Kenya, embarked on her Liberian journey in 2018, supporting the Central Veterinary Laboratory (CVL) of the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) and playing a pivotal role in the One Health Laboratory Technical Working Group. Her tenure in Liberia was characterized by her unwavering commitment to enhancing the nation’s laboratory capacities, a critical step towards safeguarding animal and public health.
Dr. Sabenzia Wekesa and staff of the Central Veterinary Laboratory, MOA
The brief ceremonial gowning, a gesture of appreciation and respect, was presented to Dr. Wekesa by Ms. Watta Anthony, Director of the Central Veterinary Laboratory, on behalf of the CVL and MOA staff. Ms. Anthony lauded Dr. Wekesa’s professionalism and tireless efforts, highlighting her pivotal role in elevating the CVL’s standards and capabilities.
Meanwhile, Oliver Jah, representing the Liberia One Health Coordination Platform, underscored Dr. Wekesa’s vital contributions to One Health activities. Her engagement has been instrumental in fostering an integrated approach to health that recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental well-being.
In her parting words, Dr. Wekesa reflected on her experiences with a blend of joy and collaboration. “I have learned a lot from you Liberians,” she remarked, urging the continuation of the collaborative gains achieved. Her hopeful outlook for the future resonated with those present, reinforcing her belief in sustained progress.
As Dr. Wekesa prepares for her new assignment in Malawi, her legacy in Liberia serves as a testament to the power of dedicated service and international collaboration. Her efforts have not only strengthened Liberia’s veterinary infrastructure but have also paved the way for a healthier, more resilient future.
