MONROVIA, A seven-man Chinese delegation, headed by China's Vice-Minister of Health, Mr. Chen Xiaohong, has pledged ten thousand units of anti-malaria drugs to the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MHSW).

Minister Chen and his team, who visited the Health's Ministry Monday, February 18, 2008, said his visit to Liberia was aimed at helping the Liberian Government eradicate malaria in the country.

Speaking further on the team's visit, Mr. Chen told officials at the Ministry that exchange of health plans was one of the ways both countries could build a vibrant health sector.

The Chinese Vice Health Minister also pledged his country's commitment in building a new hospital for Liberia soon. He added that a team from China would be in the country to carry on an assessment for the construction of the new hospital.

He also said his country would help in the establishment of laboratory facilities in the rural areas, and at the John F. Kennedy (JFK) Medical Center, among others.

Minister Chen also stressed the need for a medical insurance scheme for each citizen in the country.

In reaction to the Chinese Minister's pledge, Health Minister Walter Gwenigale thanked the Chinese government for their donation. He disclosed to the visiting delegation that President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf hoped to see the new hospital built in Tappita city in Nimba County.

He disclosed that funding from Government to his Ministry was inadequate to help solve the country's health problems.

Speaking further on how his Ministry intended to eradicate disease in the country, Minister Gwenigale said the Ministry would submit a report soon to donors for assistance toward the health sector in the country. He invited the delegation to take a look at the report.

The Chinese medical team is expected to visit the damaged facilities of the MHSW in Congo town.

At the end of their discussions, the Ministry and the delegation exchanged gifts.

Source: The Daily Observer (19 February, 2008)