By: Saidu Jalloh
The National Public Health Agency (NPHA) recently organized a one-day validation meeting through its Point of Entry (PoE) unit on Thursday, March 20, 2025.
The meeting, held at EOC 2, Wilkinson Road, aimed to review and finalize the newly developed training curriculum. The goal of the session was to align all stakeholders on the curriculum’s content and delivery method. During the meeting, participants actively provided feedback and shared suggestions for improvement before finalizing the curriculum for rollout. This initiative represents a crucial step in enhancing Sierra Leone’s public health preparedness and response at Points of Entry.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Professor George A. Gogra from Ernest Bai Koroma University (EBK University) expressed his gratitude to both the government and the NPHA for their teamwork and dedication to improving public health systems at Points of Entry. He emphasized the importance of sustained communication and collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the curriculum. Similarly, Mr. Alex Ndolie, the Point of Entry focal person from the World Health Organization (WHO), commended the PoE staff for their dedication throughout the validation process. Both representatives expressed optimism about the positive impact the finalized curriculum will have on Sierra Leone’s public health preparedness.
In his closing remarks, Dr. Abdul K. Mbawa, the Human Resource Manager at the NPHA, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks on behalf of the Executive Director of NPHA, Prof. Foday Sahr. He stated, “Thank you to everyone involved for your hard work and dedication to this important initiative. We’re excited to see the positive results of our collaboration in the near future.” He further emphasized the importance of continuous learning and improvement to strengthen public health response capabilities, encouraging all staff to stay engaged and committed to the effective implementation of the curriculum. Ultimately, the meeting concluded with stakeholders validating the team’s efforts and expressing optimism for the future of public health in Sierra Leone. They reaffirmed their commitment to working together for a healthier and safer community.
This training is vital because Points of Entry (PoE) play a critical role in safeguarding public health. Border health refers to the systems and protocols implemented at airports, seaports, and land crossings to detect, prevent, and respond to public health threats. In this regard, Sierra Leone’s Points of Entry are essential for monitoring incoming travelers, ensuring health security, and preventing the cross-border spread of infectious diseases. For both the NPHA and the nation, an effective PoE system is integral to strengthening surveillance, improving emergency response, and protecting communities from health risks.
Moreover, the newly developed training curriculum is designed to equip frontline border health workers with the knowledge and skills required to handle emerging public health challenges effectively. By enhancing their capacity, the NPHA seeks to bolster preparedness at Points of Entry, ensure rapid detection of potential health threats, and foster confidence in the nation’s health security systems. This effort not only strengthens national health security but also promotes efficiency in disease prevention and control measures.
The NPHA acknowledges and appreciates the support of donor partners such as WHO, as well as all stakeholders involved in this initiative. Their contributions underscore a shared commitment to enhancing Sierra Leone’s public health infrastructure and preparing the nation for a safer and healthier future.
