By: Archie Boan
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has conducted a one-day intensive training for more than 30 print and electronic journalists from across Liberia on the Community Revolving Drug Fund (CRDF) and Cost-Sharing Scheme initiatives aimed at ensuring constant availability and accessibility of essential medicines in public health facilities.
The training brought together journalists from all 15 counties to enhance their understanding of the CRDF framework, accountability mechanisms, and the media’s role in promoting transparency and public awareness about affordable healthcare.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry, Atty. Malayah Tamba Chiyoe, Deputy Minister for Policy, Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, underscored the importance of the CRDF in addressing drug shortages in health facilities and reducing citizens’ out-of-pocket spending on medicines.
“The Community Revolving Drug Fund is not new to Liberia. It started around 1988 when hospitals and clinics were running out of essential drugs due to limited funding. The Ministry, together with communities, agreed to share resources to ensure that essential medicines remain available and affordable,” Atty. Chiyoe explained.
He further called on journalists to use their platforms to educate the public on the significance of the CRDF and Cost-Sharing, and to monitor implementation at county and community levels to ensure accountability.
Under the CRDF, medicines are initially provided through a seed fund supplied by the Ministry or local communities. Drugs are sold at a minimal, non-profit cost, and the funds collected are used solely to replenish stock and maintain operations.
The scheme seeks to reduce the use of substandard medicines, promote local ownership, and strengthen community confidence in health services.
Meanwhile, the Cost-Sharing Scheme allows communities to make small contributions toward their healthcare including registration, medicines, and minor medical procedures while the government continues to provide free services such as immunization, HIV and TB care, family planning, nutrition, and mental health.
Representing the electronic media, Journalist Jenneh Kemokai of Grand Cape Mount County commended the Ministry of Health for organizing what she described as a “mind-opening session” for journalists.
“This training has given us the knowledge we need to accurately inform our audiences about the CRDF and its benefits. It will help reduce misinformation and build public trust in the health system,” Kemokai said.
The Ministry emphasized that transparency and accountability are key components of the CRDF scheme. To ensure this, regular financial and stock reports, audits, and community oversight mechanisms will be implemented, supported by electronic tracking systems.
Journalists were urged to play an active role in educating communities, highlighting irregularities, and reporting success stories that promote trust in the system.
