Jerry King Village, Rivercess County – October 6, 2025 – The people of Jerry King Village in Juweh Section, Rivercess County, on Saturday, October 4, 2025, celebrated the official dedication and opening of the Juweh Clinic, the first ever health facility in the area.
The ceremony brought together key stakeholders from government, community leadership, and international partners, all gathered to witness the fruit of years of planning, collaboration, and determination by the Affected Communities of Forest Management Contract Area B (FMC-B), the Community Forestry Development Committee (CFDC), and the National Benefit Sharing Trust Board (NBSTB).
A Dream Realized for Rural Health Access
Delivering the keynote address, NBSTB National Chairman, Mr. Solomon S. Peters, described the Juweh Clinic as a “first-of-its-kind” in the region. He reflected on the painful past when residents were forced to walk for two to three days, often in hammocks or on motorbikes, to access basic healthcare.
“This is not just a building; it is a beacon of hope,” Peters declared. “The call for development work means every citizen has a responsibility. Those who hear that call and have passion answer it—and this community has done just that.”
Peters emphasized the unique role of the CFDC in empowering communities to take charge of their resources and direct their own development priorities.
Community Ownership at the Core
The project, which cost US$93,000, includes construction, furnishing, and three months of initial salaries for clinic staff. It was fully funded and monitored by the National Benefit Sharing Trust Board using forest benefits allocated to the community by the government.
According to Matthew Walley, Chairman of CFDC-FMC-B, the clinic stands as a “historic milestone” and a testament to the collective efforts of all stakeholders.
“In 2021, our affected communities made the bold decision to allocate a portion of their forest benefits to this clinic. Today, we celebrate what people can achieve when they unite around a shared goal,” Walley said.
The Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Liberia and the affected communities ensures that the community will support the clinic for one year, after which the government will take over operational responsibilities.
From Curse to Substance for Development
Representing the Rivercess County Superintendent, Mr. Josiah Teah, Administrative Assistant, echoed the transformation of perception about the forest—from being seen as a curse to now a critical resource for community growth.
“We must now think about how to sustain this clinic,” Teah urged. “The Superintendent sends his message of deep concern and support, reminding us that this facility must remain functional beyond the first year.”
Concerns, Commitment, and a Call to Action
Rivercess County Health Officer, Dr. Dyujay Karnga, recounted a past visit to Juweh that left him sleepless with worry over the lack of healthcare access in the area.
“I thought about what would happen if a woman had delivery complications or someone needed surgery. We had no answers then. But today, we are standing in front of the answer—this clinic,” Dr. Karnga said, praising the efforts of CFDC and Mr. Matthew Walley for their tireless work.
UNICEF Vaccinator in Rivercess County, Madam Merline Wesseh, also applauded the project, particularly for the benefits it will bring to women and children. She urged mothers to bring their children for vaccinations and encouraged the community to take ownership of the facility’s future.
Voices of Gratitude
Community leader and Chairlady of Jerry King Village, Madam Elizabeth King Gardea, offered heartfelt thanks to the CFDC, FMC-B, and all partners involved in making the clinic a reality.
“This is our clinic. Let us care for it, support the staff, and ensure it serves generations to come,” she said.
Looking Ahead
As the ribbon was cut and doors opened, the Juweh Clinic not only marked the end of a health crisis but also symbolized the power of local ownership, participatory development, and the transformative potential of community-driven governance.
With the government set to take over in a year, stakeholders hope that the clinic will serve as a model for other rural areas in Liberia—and a strong argument for the continued responsible management of natural resources.
