AGP Executive Report

Ebola Alert: WHO is warning the DRC’s Ebola outbreak is worsening fast, with fatality rates now above 46% and health services strained as cases surge across provinces—raising fears it could be escalated to a higher emergency level. Deportation Health & Safety: Liberia began receiving the first 20 of 1,200 U.S.-sent third-country deportees under a new deal, with officials saying arrivals are medically cleared and can seek asylum; rights groups flag humanitarian and legal concerns. Medical Care in Custody: Former Vice President Jewel Howard Taylor was rushed to GIMS Hospital in Monrovia after reported high blood pressure while in police custody, delaying a planned court transfer. Reproductive Health Policy: A coalition of civil society groups urged Liberia’s lawmakers to review sexuality education and reproductive health policies, pushing for local consultation and stronger safeguards for children. Public Health Messaging: IWYE trained Liberian journalists on family planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights to improve accurate reporting. Food Safety Oversight: Ganta business leaders raised concerns about commerce inspectors in Nimba working without formal payroll status, warning it could affect food inspection and public health.

Migration & Health Access: Liberia says it will receive the first 20 of up to 1,200 third-country deportees from the U.S. starting Thursday, with arrivals described as “guests” who are medically cleared to travel, may seek asylum, and will be supported to manage the program and strengthen Liberia’s migration system. Public Health Watch: As the DRC’s Ebola outbreak keeps accelerating, WHO warns it’s “far from being under control,” with the death toll reported above 2,300 and concerns that weak surveillance and insecurity are making response harder. Food Safety & Regulation: Ganta business leaders question the use of commerce inspectors in Nimba who they say are not on the government payroll, warning it could weaken food and consumer-goods oversight and raise corruption risks that affect public health. Health Communication: IWYE trained journalists on family planning and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights to improve accurate reporting on contraception. Community Wellness: AEL launched a Gospel Solar Lights initiative for 2,000 church leaders, pairing faith work with a push for cleaner, greener communities. Digital Connectivity: LTA adopted new Satellite Communications Guidelines to attract investment and expand internet access. Women’s Hygiene: Flow Day began free sanitary pad distribution for rural women in Margibi, paired with menstrual hygiene education. Funding for Schools: Gov’t and WFP extended Liberia’s school feeding support through 2028.

Third-Country Deportees: Liberia says it will accept up to 1,200 third-country nationals deported from the U.S. over 12 months, with the first group of 20 expected to arrive at Roberts International Airport on Thursday; officials insist arrivals are “guests,” medically cleared to travel, free to leave or apply for asylum, and that Liberia is not seeking compensation—though details on costs, housing, and healthcare remain unclear. Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO chief Tedros warns the DRC Ebola outbreak is “far from being under control,” citing insecurity, displacement, and fast spread; the outbreak has surpassed 2,300 deaths and nearly 5,000 cases, with WHO urging stronger cross-border cooperation. Menstrual Health: Flow Day, with partners, launched free sanitary pad distribution for rural women in Margibi’s Quela District, pairing supplies with hygiene education to reduce infection risks. Public Health Risk (Antibiotics): A regional report highlights widespread monthly antibiotic use among women in West Africa, driven by misinformation, raising alarms about antimicrobial resistance—similar patterns are suggested in Liberia. Drug Probe: Liberia charged ex-VP Jewel Howard Taylor with drug trafficking and money laundering linked to a major cocaine seizure in Paynesville.

Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is “far from being under control,” warning it’s moving faster than any previous outbreak and could spread further as insecurity, displacement, and population movement fuel transmission; DRC figures put deaths above 2,300 with nearly 5,000 cases. Migration & Health (Liberia): Liberia says it will accept up to 1,200 third-country nationals transferred from the U.S., with the first 20 arriving Aug. 20, raising public debate over security checks and transparency as officials insist arrivals are “guests” and medically cleared. School Nutrition (Liberia): Government and WFP extend the National School Feeding Programme to 2028, aiming to boost enrollment and attendance with continued technical support. Connectivity (Liberia): LTA signs new satellite communications guidelines to expand affordable internet access and clarify licensing and landing rules for operators. Food Safety (Liberia): Food Authority of Liberia launches its 2026–2030 strategic plan with EU support to strengthen food safety systems. Public Health Risk (Region): A regional report highlights widespread antibiotic misuse after menstruation in Ghana, with experts warning it can drive antimicrobial resistance—an issue Liberia health authorities may want to watch closely.

Ebola Alert for the Region: WHO chief Tedros warned the DR Congo Ebola outbreak is “far from being under control,” citing insecurity, displacement, and fast spread; deaths have surpassed 2,300 and the WHO emergency committee is meeting to issue updated guidance. Liberia Migration & Health Services: Liberia agreed to accept up to 1,200 third-country deportees from the US over the next year, with the first 20 expected to arrive soon; officials say arrivals will be medically cleared and may seek asylum. Domestic Health System Funding Push: Catholic Relief Services received $50m from the US State Department’s Faith and Community Initiative as part of a $1.4b faith-based aid package, targeting improvements to hospitals, clinics, and rural health networks in Liberia and other countries. Food Safety Planning: The Food Authority of Liberia launched its 2026–2030 strategic plan with EU support to strengthen food safety systems and protect public health. Money for Care, Not Just Collection: Liberia is on track to cross US$1b in domestic revenue for the first time, with officials stressing the next test is spending it well on clinics, classrooms, and roads.

Food Safety & Policy: The Food Authority of Liberia (FAL) has launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan with EU support, aiming to strengthen food safety systems and protect consumers across the country. Public Health & Risk: In Ganta, two pilot security officers were hospitalized after allegedly being poisoned during a burglary, raising fresh fears about public safety and the use of substances to target people. Health System Integrity: A rape trial in Monrovia continues as a 16-year-old alleged victim testified about multiple sexual assaults and abduction, with the case closely watched for how testimony and medical details are handled in court. Ebola Watch (Regional Threat): The DRC Ebola outbreak has reached 2,325 deaths and 4,945 confirmed cases, becoming the deadliest in the country’s history, with WHO warning it could surpass the 2014–2016 West Africa epidemic if spread continues. Sanitation & Dignity: A Paynesville public restroom dedication by NOCAL—personally attended by President Boakai—has sparked debate over priorities, while highlighting ongoing sanitation gaps that affect everyday health.

Ebola Watch (DRC): The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has hit 2,325 deaths and 4,945 confirmed cases, making it the deadliest in the country’s history, with the fatality rate reported rising to about 46% as more patients are detected late. Outbreak Spread: Health officials say the outbreak has spread to a sixth province and is moving far faster than earlier Congo outbreaks, driven by the Bundibugyo strain for which there is still no approved vaccine or treatment. Local Health Safety (Liberia): A Monrovia case highlights weak oversight as a woman died after surgery by a man posing as a surgeon; critics say the Liberia Medical and Dental Council failed to stop him despite requests for a license. Health Infrastructure (Liberia): Liberia’s New Redemption Hospital in Caldwell is about 92% complete, with officials pushing to finish testing, commissioning, and final works so it can start serving communities. Sanitation & Public Health (Liberia): Debate follows President Boakai’s dedication of a public restroom facility in Paynesville as Liberia continues to struggle with basic sanitation. Poverty & Care Access (Liberia): New World Bank estimates warn extreme poverty remains high, raising pressure on government to expand jobs and access to basic services, including healthcare.

DR Congo Ebola Update: The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has become the country’s deadliest on record, with deaths rising to 2,325 and confirmed cases reaching 4,945; the UN warns it’s the fastest growing on record, with a victim dying about every 30 minutes, and health officials say the Bundibugyo strain has no approved vaccine or treatment. Liberia Health Safety & Care: Liberia’s push to strengthen local health capacity continues with progress on the New Redemption Hospital in Caldwell (about 92% complete), as officials urge remaining works to be finished so the facility can start serving patients. Public Health Risks from Fake Providers: A new report highlights how a woman died after surgery by a man posing as a surgeon at a clinic, raising fresh concerns about enforcement by the Liberia Medical and Dental Council and protection for patients. Community Health Conditions: Parents and teachers in Grand Bassa’s LAC plantation schools are decrying unsafe learning conditions, while the company says phased rehabilitation is underway ahead of reopening. Health Policy & Prevention: Liberia’s alcohol policy stakeholders renewed calls for stronger national alcohol control laws under the ARREST Agenda, linking regulation to health and social harm reduction.

Ebola Update (DRC): The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has killed 2,325 people and reached 4,945 confirmed cases, surpassing the country’s 2018–2020 record as WHO warns the virus is spreading faster than previous outbreaks. Vaccine Push (WHO): WHO recommends a Phase III trial of the Ebola vaccine Ervebo for Bundibugyo virus, aiming to test safety and effectiveness since there are currently no licensed vaccines or treatments for this variant. Health Safety (Liberia): Israel’s health ministry says a patient held in isolation after returning from the DRC tested negative, while authorities urge travelers returning from DRC/Uganda to self-isolate and call the hotline if symptoms appear. Youth Voice (UNICEF/UNFPA): UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched Liberia’s U-Report to reach at least 8,000 young people, giving adolescents a direct channel to share concerns and feedback. Energy for Care (Power): LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant, with officials saying more reliable electricity supports schools and hospitals. Community Health (Award): Last Mile Health won the 2026 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding primary care through community health workers across Liberia and other countries.

Ebola Alert: Israel’s Soroka Hospital isolated a patient returning from the DRC after developing fever; tests came back negative, while Liberia’s Health Ministry urged anyone returning from the DRC/Uganda to self-isolate and call the hotline if symptoms appear within 21 days. Ebola Watch (Central Africa): WHO says the DRC outbreak is accelerating and could become the deadliest on record, with Bundibugyo cases spreading faster than previous epidemics. Vaccine Update: WHO recommended a Phase III trial of the Ebola vaccine Ervebo to see if it can protect against Bundibugyo virus disease. Community Health Recognition: Last Mile Health won the 2026 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding primary care through community health workers in Liberia and other countries. Adolescent Voice: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched Liberia’s U-Report to reach at least 8,000 young people, using youth reporters to feed safer, better program decisions. Power for Care: LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant, saying reliable electricity is key for schools and hospitals during dry-season shortages. Coastal Protection: EPA warned sand mining is worsening erosion and pushed for stronger regulation to protect communities and biodiversity. Health & Safety Policy: Liberia’s President Boakai reiterated a hardline push against illicit drugs, linking drug trafficking to national survival and urging coordinated border security.

Death-Scare Scam: A 61-year-old man in Lower Margibi, accused of posing as a traditional herbalist, allegedly frightened a woman into paying US$7,200 for “spiritual sacrifices” after claiming she had only three days to live. Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO says the Congo/DRC Ebola outbreak is moving faster than any previous one, with 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths, and recommends a Phase III trial of the Ervebo vaccine for Bundibugyo. Youth Voices: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched Liberia’s U-Report, aiming to reach at least 8,000 young people as youth reporters and ambassadors. Electricity Upgrade: LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant, pushing for more reliable dry-season power for schools and hospitals. Coastal Risk: EPA warns uncontrolled sand mining is worsening coastal and riverbank erosion and calls for stronger regulation. Diplomacy & Health Links: Liberia reopened its New Delhi embassy after 35+ years, with India-Liberia talks covering health, agriculture, water, and training. Drug Fight: President Boakai urged security forces to stay focused on illicit drugs and secure borders. Access to Care (Global): Last Mile Health won the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding primary healthcare through community health workers, including in Liberia. Local Accountability: A stalled River Cess bridge project left residents risking dangerous crossings after payments were allegedly mismanaged.

Ebola Update (DRC): WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is moving faster than any previous outbreak and could surpass the 2014–2016 West Africa epidemic, with 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths reported across provinces and health zones; WHO also recommends a Phase III Ebola vaccine trial using Ervebo to test protection against Bundibugyo virus. Youth Voice & Health Link: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched U-Report in Monrovia, aiming to reach at least 8,000 young people as youth reporters and ambassadors, with a focus on adolescent girls’ empowerment and protection. Primary Care Access: The Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize goes to Last Mile Health, which supports community health workers in Ethiopia, Liberia, Malawi, and Sierra Leone, helping deliver primary care to over 32 million people. Electricity for Care: Liberia’s regulator, LERC, issued an operating license to LEC for a 20MW solar plant, citing improved power reliability for schools and hospitals during the dry season. Health & Governance Pressure: Sweden’s nearly 18-year bilateral development cooperation with Liberia ends Aug. 31, raising questions about sustaining health and other social programs after direct funding stops. Drug Fight (Public Health Angle): President Boakai urged security forces to intensify the fight against illicit drugs, framing it as a threat to Liberia’s future and calling for secure borders and coordinated action. Infrastructure Accountability (Health Risk): A stalled US$90,000 bridge project in River Cess leaves residents risking dangerous crossings to reach services and livelihoods, highlighting how delayed county spending can directly endanger community wellbeing.

Youth Voice & Health: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched Liberia’s U-Report, aiming to reach at least 8,000 young people as youth reporters and ambassadors to shape programs—especially for adolescent girls—via a simple “JOIN” SMS channel. Ebola Watch (Regional, Health Security): Africa CDC and WHO-linked updates say Central Africa’s Ebola outbreak is at about 4,000 confirmed cases with 1,800–2,061 deaths, spreading fast in DRC and raising fears it could surpass past worst outbreaks; WHO also recommends a Phase III Ebola vaccine trial for Bundibugyo. Primary Care Access: Last Mile Health won the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding community-based primary healthcare in Liberia and other countries, highlighting the value of trained community health workers. Electricity for Care: LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant, with officials stressing reliable power for schools and hospitals during the dry season. Coastal Health & Safety: EPA warned uncontrolled sand mining is accelerating erosion and threatening communities and biodiversity, urging stronger regulation. Diplomacy with Health Links: Liberia reopened its New Delhi embassy after 35+ years; talks with India included cooperation on health, water, agriculture, training, and shipping security.

Ebola Vaccine Update: WHO recommends a Phase III trial of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine to see if it can protect against Bundibugyo virus as the DRC outbreak accelerates. DRC Outbreak Pressure: WHO says the Congo Ebola outbreak is on track to become the deadliest on record, with thousands of confirmed cases and deaths and transmission often happening outside treatment centers. Liberia Health Access Boost: UNICEF and UNFPA relaunched U-Report in Monrovia to give adolescents and young people a safe channel to share concerns and shape programs, aiming to reach at least 8,000 youth. Community Health Recognition: Last Mile Health won the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding primary care through community health workers in Liberia and other countries. Energy for Care: LERC licensed LEC’s 20MW solar plant, highlighting reliable power as key for schools and hospitals during the dry season. Environment & Health Link: EPA warns uncontrolled sand mining is worsening coastal erosion, threatening communities and biodiversity. Local Accountability: A stalled River Cess bridge project is leaving residents risking dangerous crossings—an access-to-services issue that hits health and livelihoods.

India–Liberia Diplomacy: Foreign Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti met India’s S. Jaishankar in New Delhi to deepen cooperation across technology, agriculture, health, mining, water, training and trade—plus talks on UNSC reforms and reformed multilateralism. Liberia Embassy Milestone: Liberia officially reopened its Embassy in India after 35 years, positioning it as a platform for economic diplomacy, investment, education and health cooperation. Ebola Watch (DRC): WHO says the Congo Ebola outbreak is on track to become the deadliest ever, with rapid spread and rising deaths; the current wave is already the second-biggest on record. Primary Healthcare Prize: Last Mile Health, working in Liberia and other countries, won the 2026 Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for expanding community-based primary care. Health Financing: Liberia’s Finance Ministry backed Universal Health Insurance as a way to protect households from catastrophic costs and strengthen access for mothers and vulnerable groups. Local Accountability (River Cess): A stalled US$90,000 bridge project leaves residents risking their lives on a makeshift log crossing, highlighting gaps in county spending and enforcement. Credit Crunch: The Central Bank of Liberia announced a national push to tackle non-performing loans, aiming to unblock credit and support private investment.

Health Financing Push: Liberia’s Ministry of Finance backs Universal Health Insurance, framing it as a way to protect households from catastrophic costs and keep mothers and newborns from falling into poverty. Family Planning Funding: IWYE is urging lawmakers to set aside 2% of Liberia’s 2027 national budget for family planning, warning underfunding is worsening teenage pregnancy and straining the health system. Ebola Watch (Regional): WHO warns the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak could surpass the deadliest past epidemics, with cases and deaths climbing fast amid conflict, delayed detection, and strained services. Human Capital for Health: Liberia prepares 11 scholars for advanced studies in China, with officials stressing return on investment through specialized skills for national development, including infectious disease prevention and control. Capacity Building Partnerships: China says it will expand specialized training for more than 450 Liberians in 2026, aiming to strengthen Liberia’s technical workforce through knowledge transfer. Local Health System Strengthening: LCPS commends JFK Medical Center for building Liberia’s specialist workforce ahead of its 10th AGSM, highlighting the hospital’s role in postgraduate training. Accountability in Service Delivery: A stalled River Cess bridge project left residents risking their lives, reflecting wider concerns about accountability in county spending that can also affect access to health services.