Gbarnga, Bong County: A weeklong consultative meeting bringing together over 100 chiefs and other traditional leaders from across the country got underway on Tuesday in Gbarnga, Bong County.

The meeting intended to sensitize traditional leaders on the deadly Ebola Virus and way forward aimed at preventing the disease was organized by the Ministry of Internal Affairs in collaboration with the National Council of chiefs and Elders, with support from the Carter Center.

Speaking at the opening, Internal Affairs Minister Morris Dukuly challenged traditional chiefs throughout Liberia to take leadership role in the fight against the virus in their various communities.

“Your institution is a powerful one; you must use your office to do more awareness on Ebola in your counties. I respect you and your society and I am also part of you”. Hon. Dukuly said.

He emphasized that traditional leaders play a key role in society; their contribution in the fight against Ebola is crucial and as such, he wants chiefs to collaborate with government to combat the virus, which according to him poses a threat to the nation and its people.

Hon. Dukuly lauded Chief Zanzan Karwor and all participants for the turnout, promising government’s commitment to collaborate with them.

Speaking earlier, the head of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders, Chief Zanzan Karwor commended the Ministry of Internal Affairs for approving the meeting and the Carter Center for the sponsorship.

Representatives from several ministries and agencies as well as partners are expected to make presentations on their respective roles in the fight against Ebola.

They include the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ministry of Information, Ministry of Agriculture and the Bureau of Immigration. Others are the World Health organization, Center for Disease Control-USA, UNICEF and UNIFPA among others.