Residents of Soniwene, a slum community situated in central Monrovia, Liberia, are celebrating the recent donation of an ambulance from their local district lawmaker, Prince Tole. The ambulance was officially presented to the Soniwene Clinic on October 1, 2024, a significant development for the community that has long faced challenges in accessing timely medical services. During the presentation, Representative Tole expressed his commitment to improving healthcare in District #8, emphasizing that this donation aligns with his campaign promises made during the 2023 elections. He highlighted the ambulance’s intended purpose—to save lives across not only Soniwene but also neighboring districts, reinforcing the notion that every citizen deserves access to essential health services.
Rep. Tole’s donation serves as a critical intervention in the community’s healthcare infrastructure, aiming to reduce the distress residents often experience when medical emergencies arise. The lawmaker pointed out that, in politics, equitable service provisions should be the standard; he called upon residents to remain patient, assuring them that further initiatives are planned for the future. This primary step is intended as the catalyst for a broader developmental approach involving more resources and support for healthcare facilities, particularly in underprivileged areas like Soniwene. Tole’s vision extends beyond this immediate need, as he also announced plans for the establishment of a district development council to foster sustainable community development.
As part of his commitment to empowering women in the local market, Tole distributed LD$60,000 to marketers in the Soniwene community during the presentation. This financial support is aimed at enhancing local livelihoods while stimulating economic activity. The gesture underscores a holistic approach to community upliftment, addressing immediate health needs through the ambulance donation and concurrent socio-economic support. Tole’s emphasis on women’s empowerment reflects a broader understanding of the challenges faced by families in a slum environment, where women often bear the burden of care for their households.
Mental Health Supervisor for the Central Monrovia Health District, Ibnyasin Duoko, applauded Rep. Tole’s contribution and urged other lawmakers to follow suit. He highlighted that such actions directly contribute to the developmental agenda spearheaded by President Joseph N. Boakai. Duoko emphasized the historical significance of this donation, noting it is the first of its kind for the Soniwene Clinic from an individual benefactor. However, he also expressed concern about the sustainable use of the ambulance, stressing the importance of ensuring it is utilized for its intended health purposes rather than leaving residents in a perpetual state of need for resources.
The Officer-In-Charge of the Soniwene Medical Facility, Irene Sherman, echoed these sentiments, stating that the donation has brought joy to the community. Her appeal to the residents involved a shift in mindset regarding development and healthcare access, encouraging active communication with the medical facility whenever health issues arise. Sherman also discussed the importance of maintaining the ambulance, reassuring the audience that plans for its upkeep were already under discussion with the County Health Office. Rep. Tole’s initiative to manage its maintenance provides a crucial assurance that the ambulance will remain functional for its life-saving services.
In summary, the donation of an ambulance to the Soniwene Clinic marks a pivotal moment for the community of Soniwene, reflecting a commitment to improving healthcare access and fostering local development. Representative Prince Tole’s actions not only address immediate medical needs but also lay the groundwork for future initiatives aimed at lifting local communities. His appeal for collaboration among residents and the emphasis on sustainability align with broader goals of enhancing the quality of life in District #8. With continued support and community engagement, this effort stands to significantly impact health outcomes for the residents of Soniwene and contribute positively to the overall socio-economic fabric of the region.
