NIMBA CO., LIBERIA – Residents of Gbapa, a mining community in Nimba County, along with other citizens, have expressed their appreciation to ArcelorMittal Liberia (AML) for its support in constructing a modern health center in their town.
The dedication ceremony for the health facility, held on April 26, 2024, was a moment of gratitude and excitement for the citizens. This development marks a significant change for the people of Gbapa, who, since the 1920s, had to travel long distances to other communities for medical treatment.
In 2019, the citizens approached AML for assistance in constructing a clinic. AML agreed to help under a partnership agreement where the citizens provided local materials and manpower, while AML contributed building materials worth US$50,000 and $35,000 in cash, totaling US$85,000 towards the US$125,000 health center project.
Chairman of the Gbapa Development Council, Guannu Paye, explained that the government had initially planned to fund the Gbapa Clinic project, but the budget was diverted to another project. Subsequent budgets did not include the clinic, leading the citizens to seek alternative funding. They eventually appealed to AML, which came to their rescue.
The residents expressed their gratitude to AML through songs and slogans, highlighting the importance of the health center in eliminating the need to travel to other areas for medical care. The maternal section of the clinic, named after the late Dr. Fredrick Norkeh, was particularly appreciated by women, who no longer have to travel long distances for prenatal care.
ArcelorMittal Liberia’s CEO, Joep Coenen, and other company representatives were honored during the ceremony. Ahmad Massaquoi, Head of Health and Safety at AML, assured the community of the company’s continued support.
Keynote speaker Roland Nyanamah emphasized the significance of the health center, urging citizens to prioritize its use over traditional healers. A representative of the Nimba County Health Team pledged support from the Ministry of Health to ensure the facility receives the necessary supplies and staff.
Representative Nyan G. Flomo of Nimba County’s electoral district #2 commended AML for its partnership with Gbapa and urged citizens to engage with the government to access social development funds for the clinic’s sustainability.
