In the remote corners of Liberia, reaching a clinic or health centre has often been a matter of life and death. Pregnant women from the hard-to-reach places of Foya, Lofa County, faced dangerous journeys over rough roads, and everyday motorcycle transport carried serious risks.
Francis Forndia, Executive Director of Foya-Borma Hospital, described what could happen on the way to care: “Before they could get to the clinic, the pregnant woman would have lost her foetus. The pregnant mother sitting on the bike would press the baby to its early grave.”
With the only large referral hospital from Foya being a one-day drive away, it causes lots of pregnant women or patients to lose their lives. But the arrival of the first two motorcycle ambulances in the region is changing this reality.
“The motorcycle ambulance has been a real blessing,” said Francis. “Unlike ordinary motorbikes, these ambulances are equipped with a two-wheeled trailer, allowing patients to lie down safely during transport.”
MAF flew two motorcycle ambulances from the capital, Monrovia, to Foya. The ambulances were donated by a Swedish nonprofit organisation and supported by the Pentecostal Church in Sweden.
“By flying the motorcycle ambulances to help pregnant women access better treatment, MAF has made life change with a deep smile” said Francis. “We had serious challenge. We were losing a lot of babies due to bad roads. These motorcycle ambulances are going to help a lot of pregnant women.”
He also emphasizes the wider impact: “Mothers and children are our future leaders. So, when you save them, you are helping Liberia’s future.” Francis also spoke positively about the availability of MAF flights to airlift critically ill patients from rural areas for more advanced treatment, and to deliver medical supplies. “We look forward to doing patient transfers using MAF flights to enable patients access quick health care in the capital.”
“Thank you so much for your support to help meet the health needs in Liberia.”
STORY / RACHEL GWOLE GEORGE PHOTOS SUPPLIED
This story was originally published in "Flying for Life - Autumn 2026." To view the full issue, click here.