GBARNGA, Bong County — Tongbayah Clan Chief Hon. Esther Y. Keleekai has appealed to the government, humanitarian organizations, lawmakers, and well-meaning Liberians to help construct a clinic in her community, where residents reportedly travel for hours to access basic healthcare.
Speaking to journalists in Gbarnga on Friday, October 16, 2026, Chief Keleekai said the clan, located in Yellequelleh District, Bong County Electoral District #5, is approaching its 100th year without a health facility.
She said the nearest clinic is in another clan, forcing residents to carry sick people on their shoulders for four to five hours. Pregnant women in labor and children suffering from illnesses are among those most affected by the lack of nearby medical services.
“People work for hours to get there, especially when women are in labor. They have to put them in a hammock and carry them on their shoulders for more than four or five hours before they can get to that clinic,” she explained.
Chief Keleekai claimed that three women died last year while being transported for medical care. She also raised concerns about reported measles cases in the area, saying poor roads and damaged bridges make it difficult for families to reach health facilities.
“We don’t just want a clinic; we need a clinic badly,” she stressed.
Chief Keleekai disclosed that a groundbreaking ceremony for the proposed clinic is scheduled for October 31, 2026.
She said invitations have been delivered to lawmakers and other officials, including District #5 Representative Eugine J.M. Kollie, who she said promised to attend.
The clan chief said the project has an estimated budget of US$152,000, but no funding has been secured, adding that the Bong County Health Team and the Ministry of Health have been informed of the project and have approved its blueprint.
However, she noted that the construction timeline would depend on the support the community receives from government, development partners and private individuals.
Chief Keleekai described Tongbayah as one of the poorest clans in Yellequelleh District, appealing to people of goodwill to help turn the proposal into a functioning health facility.
“If you don’t ask, nobody will give it to you. The Bible says, ‘Ask, and it shall be given unto you.’ Now we have decided, we will ask. We need a clinic,” she said.
As the groundbreaking date approaches, the community hopes its appeal will attract the financial support needed to improve access to healthcare and reduce the risks residents face when seeking emergency medical attention.
Reported by DWilson Nornie