By: Macdonald Dennis- Freelancer
In observance of World Clubfoot Day, themed “Together We Can Minimize Clubfoot Deformity in Liberia,” Representative Augustine Chiewolo of Lofa County Electoral District #5 has emphasized the urgent need for substantial government backing and the nationalization of the Liberia Clubfoot Program.
Chiewolo, who is also the Executive Director of the Faith Clinical Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center (FACORC) and a dedicated advocate for the Clubfoot Program in Liberia, delivered his remarks during a national event held in Congo Town, Monrovia, on June 3, 2025.
He noted the significant advancements made by the program and underscored the pressing need for government assistance.
Chiewolo expressed disappointment that, despite the program’s achievements, there has been a lack of support from the government.
He highlighted that they have reached out to both previous and current administrations without success.
Chiewolo urged the government of Liberia to allocate resources and integrate the Clubfoot Program into the national health policy. He added, “The time has come to nationalize the clubfoot program so that more children can receive treatment.”
Since its inception in 2011, FACORC has successfully treated over 4,000 children using the Ponseti Method, a groundbreaking non-surgical approach that has revolutionized clubfoot treatment worldwide.
The program currently operates in 11 of Liberia’s 15 counties, providing its services free of charge and offering hope to families affected by this congenital condition, which causes the foot to twist inward.
Although this condition can seem severe, it is manageable.
Children born with clubfoot often face stigma and difficulties participating in everyday activities.
However, our efforts in Liberia have demonstrated that clubfoot is not a life sentence.
World Clubfoot Day, celebrated annually on June 3, honors the birth of Dr. Ignacio Ponseti (1914–2009), the pioneer of the Ponseti Method for treating clubfoot.
This observance aims to raise awareness about the condition and highlight the importance of early intervention.
Dr. Moses Massaquoi, the Country Representative of the Clinton Health Access Initiative, served as the guest speaker at the event and stressed the importance of enhancing support and recognition for the program at a national level.
“This initiative goes beyond individual or community efforts; it is a national responsibility,” Dr. Massaquoi asserted. “The government must collaborate to ensure that children across all 15 counties can benefit.
I commend the visionaries and dedicated staff for their commitment to this crucial cause.”
Representative Chiewolo reaffirmed his commitment to this initiative through his humanitarian efforts and pledged to continue advocating until the program receives the necessary support and attention it rightfully deserves.
