Status Report on the SURGE Deployment in Liberia: January 5, 2024

On January 5, 2024, the SURGE team, comprising the following, having departed Freetown the previous evening, enjoyed a well-deserved rest in Bo City. Their journey had been punctuated by honors and accolades received for their commendable response to the fire disaster in Guinea. The team was honored by the Prime Minister of Guinea, a high-level Guinean delegation, honorable ministers in Sierra Leone, and the Vice President at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Freetown.
Before they departed from Bo City to Liberia on January 6, 2024, Hon. Deputy Minister 1, Dr. Charles Senessie, delivered an inspiring address. Dr. Senessie, leading the surge deployment delegation, emphasised unity, resilience, and collaboration, setting a mission tone centred on a shared commitment to the people of Liberia. The session concluded with a heartwarming gesture from the Medical Superintendent of Bo Government Hospital, who provided the team with essential medical gowns.
Upon arrival in Liberia, the team received a warm welcome from the Honourable Minister of Health and her team, experiencing the hospitality of Liberia. After being briefed, the team proceeded to JFK Hospital, where 10 severe burn cases awaited attention. Collaborative efforts between the Sierra Leone medical team and local medical professionals aimed to address the critical situation and enhance overall case management.
At JFK Hospital, the Sierra Leone team swiftly engaged in consultations on managing severe burn cases, participating in a comprehensive briefing session with local medical staff. This exchange of information facilitated a collaborative approach to addressing the complexities of each patient’s condition. The Head of the Hospital and Dr. Abdulai Jalloh, Clinical Team Lead from Sierra Leone, discussed a management strategy emphasising resource pooling, expertise, and innovative solutions.
Recognising the intricacies of severe burn cases, a multidisciplinary approach was emphasised, involving coordination among burn specialists, surgeons, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure holistic care. The Sierra Leone team, through consistent support from the US CDC, brought valuable resources, including specialised equipment and medical supplies, enhancing the management of burns and associated cases.
The collaborative efforts between the local medical team at JFK Hospital and the Sierra Leone delegation underscore the strength of global solidarity in confronting health crises. Please see below the team composition:
Names Designation Duty Station
Prof. Charles Senesie, Deputy Minister of Health, 1 HQ
Dr. Mustapha Kabba, Deputy Chief Medical Officer, HQ
Prof. Foday Sahr, Executive Director, NPHA
Dr. Abdulai Jalloh, Plastic and Burns Surgeon, Connaught
Dr. Nadia Nana Yilla Surgery Medical Officer Connaught
Samuel S. Kargbo, Senior HR Officer, National Public Health Agency
Dr. Mohamed Alieu Kargbo, anaesthetist Connaught
Maximillan Obed Bangura Burn Nurse Connaught
Raliatu Omolaja Burn Nurse Connaught
Jesse Banguah Burn Physiotherapist Connaught
Shole Beckl Pharmacist PCMH