SURGE Steering Committee Meeting in Response to the Liberian Fire Incident:

Sierra Leone, a nation committed to safeguarding public health, recently demonstrated its preparedness and agility in responding to emergencies through the convening of its highest national body—the Sierra Personnel Deployment Plan, SURGE Steering Committee. This multi-sectoral body, which comprises government ministries, departments, agencies, and development partners and is grounded in one health perspective, underscores the nation’s commitment to swift and coordinated action in times of crisis. The recent incident in Liberia prompted an immediate response, showcasing Sierra Leone’s dedication to international collaboration and the implementation of its meticulously crafted Sierra Leone Personnel Deployment Plan.
The Liberian incident prompted a formal request from the Liberian Ministry of Health, which led to the swift convening of Sierra Leone’s highest national body under the leadership of the Hon. Minister of Health, Dr. Austin Demby. Dr. Mustapha Kabba, the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for Clinical Affairs, and Prof. Foday Sahr, the Executive Director of the National Public Health Agency, were the meeting’s leaders. Held at the NPHA’s Emergency Operations Centre on January 3, 2024, the meeting brought together various ministries, departments, agencies, and international development partners, including the US CDC and WHO, who joined virtually to collectively understand the nature of the incident and strategize an immediate response.
Deputy Executive Director Dr. Matthew Vandi, chairing the Emergency SURGE Steering Committee Meeting, highlighted the incident’s nature, drawing parallels to Sierra Leone’s past emergency—the Wellington Fire. This reflection emphasised the collaboration between nations during times of crisis. The identification of specialised SURGE personnel and the determination of required medical consumables were central to the discussion, as the committee sought ways to promptly respond to and manage the burnt patients in Liberia.
The meeting revealed the steadfast commitment of the US CDC to support Sierra Leone in strengthening its health system. Leveraging this support, the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Agency swiftly moved to initiate the next phase outlined in the Sierra Leone Personnel Deployment Plan. This strategic approach ensured the availability of the necessary surge team and medical consumables for immediate deployment.
Sierra Leone’s response to the incident showcased the effectiveness of the Sierra Leone Personnel Deployment Plan—a living document that evolves and improves with each test. This dynamic approach to emergency response demonstrates the nation’s commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability in the face of evolving challenges.
Sierra Leone’s recent emergency response exemplifies the nation’s readiness and preparedness to tackle health crises on a global scale. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, both domestic and international, underscore the importance of a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach to responding to emergencies. Sierra Leone’s commitment to refining its response mechanisms through the evolving Sierra Leone Personnel Deployment Plan sets a commendable example for other nations facing similar challenges. As the world continues to grapple with health emergencies, Sierra Leone stands as a testament to the power of preparedness, collaboration, and adaptability in safeguarding public health.