A transformative wave is sweeping across the healthcare landscape of Nimba and Grand Bassa Counties in Liberia, fueled by the construction of two state-of-the-art medical facilities: the G.W. Harley Hospital in Sehyikimpa and the Liberian Government Hospital in Buchanan. This significant upgrade in healthcare infrastructure is a product of a collaborative partnership between ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) and the Liberian government, aiming to bolster the quality and accessibility of healthcare services in these regions. The initiative marks a substantial investment in Liberia’s future, addressing critical gaps in the existing healthcare system and promising a brighter future for the health and well-being of the Liberian people.
In Nimba County, the G.W. Harley Hospital project is rapidly taking shape, with several buildings already erected. The local community has embraced this development with open arms, recognizing its potential to dramatically improve access to quality medical care. Residents like Chester Gentee express hope that the new hospital will not only enhance healthcare services but also create employment opportunities, both skilled and unskilled, within the community. This project exemplifies the potential of public-private partnerships to catalyze development and empower local populations.
Construction at the G.W. Harley site is progressing steadily. Three major buildings, each designed for a specific purpose, are nearing completion. These include a 38-room emergency ward, a similarly sized laboratory, and a 37-room MCHPID building for patient accommodation. With plastering complete, the focus is now shifting to interior work, including tiling and ceiling installation. Future phases of the project will encompass the construction of a Maternal Ward, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and a Surgical building, further expanding the hospital’s capabilities.
Meanwhile, in Grand Bassa County, the construction of the new Liberian Government Hospital in Buchanan mirrors the progress in Nimba. This parallel development signifies a comprehensive approach to strengthening Liberia’s healthcare system, ensuring that advancements are not limited to a single region but are strategically distributed to benefit a wider population. The construction of both hospitals signals a strong commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of Liberians.
These projects represent a significant component of ArcelorMittal Liberia’s broader corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives. Demonstrating a strong commitment to the socio-economic development of its operational areas, AML has contributed USD 2 million of the USD 3.5 million total project cost for the G.W. Harley Hospital and USD 1.7 million of the USD 3.5 million for the Buchanan hospital. AML’s Community Development Manager, Eric Swen, emphasizes the company’s dedication to improving public health and infrastructure for future generations, underscoring the long-term vision behind these investments.
The timing of these projects is particularly crucial, given the immense strain on Liberia’s healthcare system. Overcrowding, resource limitations, and a shortage of medical professionals have hampered the system’s ability to effectively serve the population. Furthermore, access to essential healthcare services remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural areas. The new hospitals in Nimba and Grand Bassa are strategically positioned to address these challenges by expanding access to high-quality, affordable healthcare for both urban and rural communities, thus alleviating the burden on existing facilities and improving health outcomes for a wider population. AML’s investments demonstrate a proactive approach to contributing to sustainable development in Liberia. Beyond the current construction projects, AML has consistently demonstrated its commitment to supporting Liberia’s healthcare sector. In 2022, the company invested USD 41,451 to renovate the dilapidated roof of the existing G.W. Harley Hospital, a crucial intervention that improved the facility’s functionality during the rainy season. Further demonstrating its ongoing support, AML donated substantial medical supplies to both the G.W. Harley Hospital and the Liberia Government Hospital in Buchanan, as well as several local clinics in both counties. The company also funded the construction of a community clinic in Gbapa, Nimba County, further solidifying its role as a vital partner in bolstering Liberia’s healthcare infrastructure. These combined efforts underscore a sustained commitment to improving healthcare access and quality in the regions where AML operates.
