By Abu Bakarr Kanu
The Regional Stakeholders Meeting of the Sierra Leone Health Service Commission was held with the aim of promoting the decentralization of health services. The event brought together key stakeholders, civil society organizations, media personnel, and government representatives to discuss the commission’s role in improving the health sector through recruitment, appointment, and human resource management.
Welcome Address by Acting Secretary of the Health Services Commission, Deema Kpalayieh
In her opening remarks, Ms. Deema Kpalayieh emphasized that the decentralization of health services is a critical step toward enhancing the performance and roles of health workers across Sierra Leone. She highlighted the importance of engaging stakeholders and the media to increase awareness about the commission’s significance in recruitment and appointment processes. She stated that transparency and accountability are at the core of the commission’s operations, which aim to build a resilient health sector.
Statement by the Resident Minister, North West Region – Umaro Burn Wurie
Hon. Umaro Burn Wurie acknowledged the decentralization initiative as a milestone for the health sector. He emphasized that health is a collective responsibility and called on health workers to respect and cooperate with authorities. He noted that the initiative would alleviate staff challenges while bringing healthcare closer to the people.
Remarks by Regent Paramount Chief of Bakeh Loko Chiefdom
The Regent Paramount Chief expressed his gratitude for the initiative, describing the commission’s presence in the region as a “golden opportunity” for health staff to access resources and opportunities. He remarked that this development marked a significant step in improving healthcare delivery in the chiefdom and beyond.
Address by the Deputy Mayor of Port Loko City Council
The Deputy Mayor commended the government’s efforts to decentralize the Health Service Commission, stressing that this initiative would enhance healthcare delivery at the local level. He called for continuous support and collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure the success of the program.
Commissioner of the Public Service Commission – Mr. Emma Koroma
Mr. Koroma provided a historical perspective on the Public Service Commission, established in 1958, and its advisory role to the government. He encouraged stakeholders to fully utilize the opportunities offered by the Health Service Commission, reiterating its mandate to recruit and appoint qualified staff for the Ministry of Health.
Statement on Behalf of the Director General of the Public Service Commission – Joseph Sesay
Speaking on behalf of the Director General, Mr. Joseph Sesay commended the health workers for their critical contributions to the sector. He reiterated that every community deserves access to quality healthcare and that the decentralization approach would significantly enhance healthcare delivery.
Remarks by District Medical Officer – Dr. Mahound Idris Kamara
Dr. Kamara expressed optimism about the impact of decentralization on the health sector. He highlighted the improved accessibility to recruitment and appointment information for health workers and emphasized that this initiative would promote transparency and accountability.
Keynote Address by Permanent Secretary, Mr. Sellu Kehfallah
Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Kehfallah underscored the ministry’s commitment to decentralization as a tool for effective service delivery. He outlined the commission’s responsibilities, which include recruitment, appointment, human resource management, and the training of health workers. He emphasized the need for collaboration with other ministries to ensure the success of health projects.
Mr. Kehfallah further stated that the Health Service Commission’s role extends to ensuring affordable and accessible healthcare services for