By Alpha Amadu Jalloh
Mr. President, here we go again. On December 9th, 2024, a press statement from Liberia’s John F. Kennedy Memorial Medical Center sent shockwaves across the region. It spoke of a suspected outbreak of hemorrhagic fever in Sierra Leone, urging cooperation and collaboration between the Public Health Agency of Sierra Leone and Liberia. Yet, here in Sierra Leone, we are met with silence. Instead of informing the public and taking decisive action, your government is busy with pompous launches and fanfare over initiatives we know are more about political grandstanding than genuine impact. Mr. President, this is not just troubling; it is deeply irresponsible.
The Liberians have already sounded the alarm, but where is our leadership in addressing this potential crisis? What has your government done to prepare the nation for what could spiral into another health disaster? Have you put mechanisms in place to protect the people? Have you ensured that our health systems are ready to respond? These are questions every Sierra Leonean is asking right now.
Mr. President, our nation has suffered dearly in the past from outbreaks such as Ebola and COVID-19. These crises exposed the frailty of our healthcare system, the inadequacy of our infrastructure, and the dangerous effects of government complacency. During Ebola, Sierra Leoneans witnessed firsthand how the lack of early action, transparency, and adequate resources led to the unnecessary loss of lives. We cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past.
Just recently, the tragic death of Mr. Lansana Sheriff, “STEADY BONGO,” highlighted the severe shortcomings of our healthcare system. He died because an ambulance lacked fuel to transport him to Bo Hospital. If our healthcare system cannot provide basic services in non-crisis times, how will it respond to a potential outbreak of hemorrhagic fever? This is not just about inadequate resources, Mr. President; it is about a lack of prioritization and leadership.
Mr. President, your government’s silence is deafening. It is your moral responsibility to inform the people about this suspected outbreak. Where is it happening? How many cases have been identified? What measures are in place to prevent its spread? Transparency fosters trust, and in times of potential crisis, trust is crucial.
Instead of addressing this issue head-on, your administration seems focused on distractions. The yuletide season is upon us, a time when large gatherings and close interactions are inevitable. Given how hemorrhagic fever is transmitted, this is a recipe for disaster. The people need to know the risks they face and the steps they can take to protect themselves and their families. Hiding behind silence and avoidance only puts more lives at risk.
Preparation is key in managing outbreaks, and the Liberian press statement raises serious concerns about our readiness. Do we have the necessary medical personnel trained to handle hemorrhagic fever cases? How many experts do we have who can act swiftly in case the disease spreads? Are there isolation centers equipped to contain the disease? Do we have sufficient personal protective equipment (PPE) for our healthcare workers?
Furthermore, our ambulance system is in shambles. If one man’s life could be lost due to a lack of fuel, what hope do we have of effectively responding to an outbreak? The shortage of ambulances, fuel, and medical supplies is not just a logistical failure; it is a death sentence for countless Sierra Leoneans if this suspected outbreak spirals out of control.
Mr. President, the cornerstone of effective outbreak management is communication. The Liberians have already set an example by releasing a press statement. Why has your administration failed to do the same? Your silence creates a vacuum that breeds fear, misinformation, and distrust. Sierra Leoneans deserve to hear from you directly. They need to know the truth about the situation, no matter how dire it may be.
Public health campaigns should already be underway to educate people about hemorrhagic fever: its symptoms, transmission, and prevention. Community leaders, religious institutions, and local media should be mobilized to disseminate accurate information. But as of now, there is no sign of such an effort. This lack of urgency is unacceptable.
The timing of this suspected outbreak could not be worse. The festive season brings people together in large numbers, from bustling markets to crowded churches and family gatherings. This environment is fertile ground for the rapid spread of infectious diseases. Have you issued any guidelines for safe practices during this period? Have you placed any restrictions on large gatherings to minimize risk? If not, why?
Mr. President, we need proactive measures, not reactive apologies after lives have been lost. Time is of the essence.
Mr. President, it is time to lead. Leadership means making tough decisions and prioritizing the welfare of the people above all else. Here is what we need from you now:
Immediate Public Address: Inform the nation about the suspected outbreak. Provide clear, factual information about the situation, including any measures being taken to contain it.
Mobilization of Resources: Ensure that ambulances are operational, hospitals are stocked with essential supplies, and healthcare workers are equipped with the tools they need to respond effectively.
Strengthening Border Controls: Collaborate with neighboring countries like Liberia and Guinea to implement stringent border health checks to prevent cross-border transmission.
Public Awareness Campaigns: Launch nationwide campaigns to educate people about hemorrhagic fever and how to protect themselves.
Preparation of Isolation Centers: Identify and equip isolation centers to handle suspected cases swiftly.
Engagement with International Partners: Seek technical and financial assistance from international health organizations to bolster our response capacity.
Mr. President, the people of Sierra Leone are not asking for miracles. They are asking for accountability, transparency, and decisive action. Leadership is not about grand speeches and political ceremonies; it is about protecting the lives and welfare of your citizens. Your inaction in this critical moment will not be forgotten.
We are watching. The world is watching. Do not let history record that your administration ignored the warning signs and failed to act. Step up, Mr. President. Sierra Leone deserves better.
Mr. President, the stakes could not be higher. This is not a time for distractions or denials; it is a time for action and accountability. The suspected outbreak of hemorrhagic fever is a test of your leadership and your commitment to the people of Sierra Leone. Will you rise to the occasion, or will you once again prioritize appearances over substance?
The choice is yours, but remember, the consequences of inaction will be borne by the people you swore to serve. The clock is ticking, Mr. President. Let’s act before it’s too late.
