By Peter Kollie
Lofa-Telemu Town, Salayea District-Citizens of Telemu Town have undertaken a community-driven initiative to complete the construction of a clinic that began before the civil war, which is now nearing completion.
Speaking to the media, Flomo Kollie, the Clan Chief of Palama Clan, recounted the project’s history. He explained that the construction started prior to the war but was halted when residents fled to Guinea. Upon their return, the community resumed work on the foundation and continued to push the project forward.
“This clinic project is a self-initiative by the people of Telemu,” Mr. Kollie stated. He added that various organizations and individuals have contributed significantly to the efforts. Former District #5 Representative, Moses Y. Kollie, supported the initiative by providing five bundles of zinc while the County Health Team and the Lutheran Development Service donated five bundles of zinc for the roofing.
Additionally, the project has benefited from contracts awarded to the community by NGOs to produce blocks for the building. Contributions have also come from Telemu citizens residing abroad, particularly in the United States.
Despite these initial efforts, the building is yet to be completed and turn over to the government. Clan Chief Kollie emphasized the community plans to hand over the facility once it is fully completed. He noted that some residents of Telemu working in the health sector are aiding the process.
To support ongoing work, citizens are contributing L$1,000 each to purchase bulbs and other essential materials. However, significant challenges remain, with the project still requiring cement, tiles, electrical wiring, and additional supplies to finish the building and make at least four to five rooms operational.
Addressing concerns raised by some residents about being denied medical care at the Gorlu Health Center, Mr. Kollie clarified that Telemu Town does not fall under the catchment area of Gorlu. Instead, residents are assigned to the Salayea Health Center. He explained that diverting resources from Gorlu could strain their supplies, affecting its operations.
Concluding his remarks, Mr. Kollie called on the national government and humanitarian organizations to provide additional support to help complete the clinic.
The community remains optimistic that once finished, the clinic will bring much-needed healthcare services closer to home for the citizens of Telemu Town.
