Edmund Choo-Chouboy Gbarwee Public Health Practitioner & Entrepreneur

25/04/2026

Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia-HMEL

A NATIONAL CALL FOR EPILEPSY AWARENESS IN LIBERIA 🇱🇷

Across Liberia, epilepsy remains widely misunderstood, deeply stigmatized, and too often hidden in silence. This year, as we align with the global theme for International Epilepsy Day, “Epilepsy Pledge”, we are calling on every Liberian to make a conscious commitment to awareness, compassion, and action.

Epilepsy awareness is not just a message, it is a lifesaving responsibility. It reduces stigma, protects lives, and creates safer communities for those living with the condition.

A recent incident in Monrovia,Liberia 🇱🇷 reminds us why this pledge matters.

On Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at about 2:45 PM, along Michelin Street near Waterside, a young woman suddenly collapsed and began having a seizure. As she fell to the sidewalk, convulsing and foaming at the mouth, fear and uncertainty filled the crowd. Many stood back, unsure of what to do.

But one person stepped forward.

The National Chairperson of Help Minimize Epilepsy in Liberia-HMEL, Antonette Lapue Johnson immediately rushed to her aid. She carefully positioned the young woman’s head to prevent further injury and stayed with her until she regained consciousness.

Despite comments from bystanders questioning her actions, she stood firm, because she understood a critical truth:
Epilepsy is not contagious.

Afterward, she took time to educate those present, turning a moment of fear into a moment of learning.

Also in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, another powerful story emerged. An Monitoring & Evaluation Volunteer Philemon Gbarwee reported witnessing a 10-year-old boy courageously caring for his brother during a seizure. While this act shows strength, it also highlights a gap, our communities must be better informed and equipped.

These are not isolated cases. They reflect a nationwide reality.

Epilepsy is present across Liberia—from Montserrado to Nimba, Lofa to Maryland, RiverGee to Rivercess, Grand Bassa to Grand Gedeh and beyond. Too many families are hiding in fear. Too many lives are at risk because of silence and misinformation.

Let's Zero the Stigma associated with epilepsy because THERE IS STILL HOPE


International Epilepsy Day
Epilepsy Foundation of America
Ministry of Health, Republic of Liberia
Network For Bridging Social Gap For Young Women Corp

17/03/2026

Border Tensions, Public Health Risks, and Economic Stability in the Mano River Basin

By: Edmund C Gbarwee, Liberian Public Health Practitioner
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
+231886693625
+231776572019

Overview:

Escalating land disputes between Liberia, Guinea, and Sierra Leone present urgent risks beyond territorial concerns. These tensions threaten public health systems, disrupt fragile economies, and undermine regional peace in the Mano River Basin. Immediate, coordinated action is essential.

Why It Matters?

1. Public Health at Risk:

A. Uncontrolled cross-border movement increases the likelihood of disease outbreaks, weakens surveillance, and disrupts healthcare delivery.

B. Economic Strain: Border closures and insecurity halt trade, reduce incomes, and deter investment in already vulnerable communities.

C. Social Impact: Fear, displacement, and uncertainty heighten mental health challenges and humanitarian needs.

Key Actions Required

1. Mandatory Media Reporting:

- Ensure accurate, timely, and verified information dissemination
- Counter misinformation and promote peace-focused journalism

2. Mandatory Public Health Reporting:

- Activate cross-border disease surveillance systems
- Share real-time health data among affected countries
- Deploy rapid response teams in border communities

3. Diplomatic Engagement:

- Immediate de-escalation and dialogue
- Strengthen joint border commissions and regional mediation

4. Economic Protection Measures:

- Secure trade corridors for safe commercial activity
- Provide support to affected local businesses and farmers

Way Forward

A unified, multi-sectoral response is critical:

- Prioritize peace and stability
- Integrate public health into national security strategies
- Strengthen regional cooperation through shared systems and accountability

Conclusion:

Border disputes in the Mano River Basin are not only political, they are public health and economic emergencies. Transparent reporting, strong governance, and regional solidarity are essential to protect lives, livelihoods, and lasting peace.

14/02/2026