Liberia: Gender Minister Urges Women to Heighten Ebola Vigilance Amid Regional Outbreak Concerns

MONROVIA, Liberia — Gender, Children and Social Protection Minister Gbeme Horace-Kollie has urged women across Liberia, particularly cross-border traders, market women and rural women, to strictly observe Ebola prevention measures amid renewed regional concerns over the deadly disease.

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By Patience M. Jones,[email protected]

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Minister Horace-Kollie’s warning comes as Liberia strengthens health screening and infection prevention measures following the confirmation of an Ebola case in Nigeria and an ongoing Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the region.

The Ministry of Health, in a statement issued October 21, directed health facilities, border entry points, public buildings and other institutions across Liberia to immediately strengthen screening and strictly enforce Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) protocols.

The Gender Minister said women whose livelihoods require frequent movement across borders and between communities must take the health measures seriously, particularly those engaged in cross-border trade, market activities, agriculture, mining and other economic activities.

“This is a time for vigilance, responsibility, and collective action, not denial. Every woman must take preventive health measures seriously, follow official guidance, and help protect her family and community from potential health risks,” Minister Horace-Kollie emphasized.

She said the increased movement of people associated with commerce and other livelihood activities makes it important for women to remain alert and cooperate with health authorities at border crossings and other screening points.

The Ministry of Health has called for functional handwashing stations equipped with soap and water or appropriate hand sanitizers at entrances to public facilities and institutions. It has also instructed authorities to screen individuals for symptoms, travel history and possible exposure to Ebola.

The health authorities have cautioned, however, that temperature checks alone are not sufficient to effectively screen for Ebola or prevent the spread of infection.

Minister Horace-Kollie said women’s economic contribution to Liberia makes their protection particularly important, noting their central role in local commerce, food production, agriculture and household livelihoods.

“Protecting women from preventable health risks is critical to safeguarding families, communities, and Liberia’s broader economic well-being,” the Ministry said.

The Gender Minister has also called on market associations, women’s organizations, community leaders and local authorities to intensify public awareness efforts, particularly in rural and border communities where women may have limited access to timely health information.

She urged these groups to ensure that women receive accurate and accessible information about Ebola prevention and avoid relying on rumors or unverified information.

The Minister further cautioned against complacency and disregard for established health protocols, urging communities to rely on official information from the Ministry of Health and the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL).

The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection said it remains committed to working with health authorities, development partners, women’s organizations and community stakeholders to strengthen public awareness and ensure that women in vulnerable and underserved communities are equipped to take appropriate preventive action.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has assured the public that it will continue providing timely and accurate updates as the regional health situation evolves.

For Minister Horace-Kollie, heightened vigilance among women is not only a public health responsibility but also an essential step toward protecting Liberia’s families, communities and economic activities.