Published: April 3, 2026
MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has launched a national Ear and Hearing Project, praising the Rotary Club for what he described as a “very important contribution” to Liberia’s healthcare sector while urging citizens to place greater trust in local medical institutions.
Speaking Thursday, April 2, at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center in Sinkor, Boakai emphasized the need to strengthen domestic healthcare services and reduce reliance on treatment abroad.
Rotary’s Intervention Boosts Specialized Care
The Ear and Hearing Project, spearheaded by the Rotary Club, is aimed at expanding access to specialized ear and hearing services in Liberia—an area long constrained by limited resources.
The Rotary Club, a global humanitarian organization with more than 1.4 million members, has a long-standing record of community interventions focused on health, education and social welfare.
“As a Rotarian myself, I understand why the Rotary Club is capable of doing what it continues to do in this country,” Boakai said. “Even during times of crisis, the Club has remained actively involved in communities, carrying out numerous impactful programs.”
He noted that the organization’s outreach includes support to the elderly and vulnerable populations across Liberia.
Call to Expand Service Nationwide
While acknowledging contributions from other service organizations, including the Lions Club, the president said Rotary’s consistent presence has made it a critical partner in national development.
“My hope is that the Rotary Club will expand its reach across the country, particularly to rural areas, and help teach young people the value of service and giving back to society. What we see here today is a manifestation of that commitment,” he said.
Boakai also highlighted Rotary’s Four-Way Test as a guiding ethical framework: “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and better friendships? Will it be beneficial to all concerned?”
“The Rotary Club does not only respond to the moral responsibility of giving; it also teaches people the importance of contributing to society,” he added.
President Urges Confidence in Local Healthcare
The president stressed that many Liberians still seek treatment abroad, often due to limited confidence in local systems.
“Therefore, we must continue to strengthen our local healthcare system,” he said.
He underscored the importance of investing in health infrastructure and personnel, noting that not all citizens have the means to travel for medical care.
Linking Health, Work Ethic and National Development
Boakai also used the occasion to reflect on broader national challenges, including productivity and compensation.
“Too often, we find ourselves in a situation where people pretend to work while institutions pretend to pay. This must change. We must recognize and reward competence if we are to build a stronger nation,” he said.
He emphasized that sustainable development requires long-term commitment and support for professionals, particularly healthcare workers who often serve under difficult conditions.
Government Expanding Health Capacity
Highlighting recent government interventions, Boakai recalled efforts to upgrade services at JFK Medical Center.
“I recall that when I first took office, a visit to JFK Medical Center revealed a need for six incubators. Within a short time, we were able to mobilize support and provide thirty-one incubators and six X-ray machines,” he said.
He said such progress demonstrates the impact of coordinated national efforts.
Call for Collective Responsibility
The president urged Liberians to embrace a shared responsibility for nation-building and community development.
“We encourage all Liberians to commit themselves to nation-building. Let us look inward and recognize the goodwill that exists within our communities,” he said.
“The Rotary Club has demonstrated this, and we encourage them to expand further, reaching more parts of the country and inspiring the younger generation to understand that it is more blessed to give than to receive.”
Assurance on Use of Donated Equipment
In closing, Boakai assured that equipment provided under the project will be properly installed and utilized at the JFK Medical Center.
“We must begin to trust our local institutions more. The facilities are here, and the professionals are committed. With continued support and trust, they will only improve,” he said.
“Once again, I extend sincere thanks to the Rotary Club, the Bishop, and all those who made this contribution possible. Let us continue working together for the betterment of our country,” he said.
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