Kpaai District, Bong County – In a landmark move to strengthen healthcare delivery in rural Liberia, Senator Johnny Kpehe Sr. on Saturday, September 13, 2025, officially dedicated the newly completed and fully equipped Yila Clinic in Wolota Clan, Kpaai District, Bong County. The facility, which had remained in a state of neglect for decades since its establishment by local residents and American missionaries, will now serve over a dozen surrounding communities in Bong and parts of Nimba County.
Speaking during the dedication ceremony, Senator Kpehe described the event as “one of the most important days” of his life. He dedicated the day to his five-year-old twins, recounting the health complications surrounding their birth as a pivotal moment that shaped his personal commitment to healthcare development.
“When they were born, there were too many complications. That’s when I knew the importance of taking care of young infants,” the Senator said. He added that during his first visit to Yila for an assessment, the clinic was in deplorable condition: “No door, no window, no bed, no ceiling—but the health workers were still there, fighting to save lives. That’s when I knew something had to be done.”
Senator Kpehe highlighted that the clinic’s completion represents the fulfillment of promises made during the 2023 campaign period. “We told our people during the election that if elected, we would address the challenges in the health sector. Today is a clear manifestation of that promise,” he said.
The Senator acknowledged the collective efforts of the Bong County Legislative Caucus, particularly his senior colleague Senator Prince Moye, whose collaboration he described as instrumental to the project’s success. “We go beyond politics. We share family values and work together to bring development to our people,” he noted.
In a significant show of commitment, Senator Kpehe delivered the first consignment of essential medical supplies to the clinic and promised a fully equipped ambulance to enhance emergency response in the district. “With the help of my team, we are providing this first batch of drugs and an ambulance that will serve not just Yila, but surrounding towns as well,” he announced.
Support from National Leaders
Bong first Senator Prince Moye, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Ways, Means, Finance, and Budget attended the ceremony and praised Senator Kpehe’s leadership and pledged to work with the Senate Committee on Health, chaired by Grand Cape Mount Senator Dabah Varpilah, to ensure the clinic is captured in the 2026 national budget. “Supporting healthcare in rural communities is key to improving the lives of our people,” Senator Moye stated.
Minister of Internal Affairs, Francis Nyumalin, and Senator Varpilah also lauded the project and urged community members to take ownership of the facility. Minister Nyumalin pledged a contribution of US$1,000 to support the initial operation of the clinic.
County Health Team Responds
Dr. Daanue Paye Zwuogbae, County Health Officer of Bong, expressed appreciation for the lawmakers’ support of rural health initiatives. He assured the public of the Health Team’s commitment to proper oversight and encouraged the local management team to ensure that the distribution of drugs is done fairly and without bias. “The people’s health must come first,” he emphasized.
Community Impact
The newly dedicated Yila Clinic is expected to significantly reduce travel time and health risks for residents in Kpaai District and neighboring communities. For decades, locals had to travel long distances to access basic healthcare services.
Saturday’s dedication marks a major step toward improving health outcomes in rural Liberia, particularly in underserved regions of Bong and Nimba Counties. The clinic now stands as a symbol of government-community partnership, unity among lawmakers, and the positive impact of keeping campaign promises.
