-Acting Chief Medical Officer Says Yoga Offers a Cost-Effective Tool for Preventing Non-communicable Diseases as Liberia Marks the 12th International Day of Yoga
MONROVIA, Liberia – The Ministry of Health has commended the Government of India and the Embassy of India in Liberia for promoting wellness, preventive healthcare, and healthy living through the observance of the 12th International Day of Yoga, describing the ancient practice as a practical and affordable tool for improving both physical and mental health.
Speaking on behalf of Health Minister Dr. Louise M. Kpoto during the national celebration held at Monrovia City Hall, Acting Chief Medical Officer Dr. Teyah Sackie Moore said yoga has become an increasingly important component of preventive healthcare, particularly as countries confront rising cases of non-communicable diseases, stress-related illnesses, and mental health challenges.
“Yoga provides an effective and affordable pathway to healthier living,” Dr. Moore said, noting that holistic approaches to healthcare are becoming increasingly important in helping people prevent illness before it occurs.
He emphasized that Liberia’s healthcare agenda is not limited to treating diseases but also includes promoting healthy lifestyles that improve the overall well-being of citizens.
Focus on Prevention
Dr. Moore observed that regular physical activity, stress management, and healthier lifestyles remain critical in reducing the burden of hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular diseases, and other non-communicable illnesses that are becoming more prevalent across Africa.
He praised India’s continued efforts to share wellness practices that encourage healthy ageing, physical fitness, emotional balance, and mental resilience.
The Acting Chief Medical Officer noted that preventive healthcare interventions such as yoga can complement existing public health programs by encouraging individuals to take greater responsibility for their own health.
India Celebrates Global Wellness
This year’s celebration, organized by the Embassy of India in Monrovia, formed part of the global observance of the 12th International Day of Yoga, celebrated under the theme:
“Yoga for Healthy Ageing.”
The event attracted more than 200 participants, including members of Liberia’s diplomatic community, senior government officials, representatives of United Nations agencies, members of the Indian community, students, alumni of India’s capacity-building programs, and health and wellness enthusiasts from across Liberia.
Among the dignitaries attending were Deputy Information Minister Nat Bayjay, Assistant Minister for Curative Services Dr. Teyah Sackie Moore, Assistant Ministers of Posts and Telecommunications V. Marshal Sambola and Emmanuel Fred, representatives of the Liberia National Tourism Authority, the diplomatic corps, United Nations agencies, and the Liberia Association of Indian-Trained Professionals (LAITP/ITEC Alumni).
Yoga Is More Than Exercise
Addressing the gathering, Indian Ambassador Manoj Bihari Verma described yoga as one of India’s greatest gifts to humanity, stressing that the practice extends beyond physical exercise to encompass mental wellness, emotional stability, and inner peace.
The Ambassador said the 2026 theme highlights the importance of helping people remain healthy and active as life expectancy continues to increase across the world.
He also reaffirmed India’s commitment to sharing the benefits of yoga globally in the spirit of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam”—a Sanskrit phrase meaning “The World is One Family.”
According to Ambassador Verma, yoga promotes harmony between the body and mind while encouraging self-awareness, resilience, and lifelong well-being.
Practical Demonstration
A major highlight of the celebration was a guided yoga session led by Ms. Massa Mamey Clarke, founder of Flow Studios Monrovia, during which participants practiced breathing techniques and various yoga postures drawn from India’s internationally recognized Common Yoga Protocol.
Developed by India’s Ministry of AYUSH in consultation with leading yoga experts, the protocol has become the standard routine used during International Day of Yoga celebrations around the world.
Participants also witnessed the presentation of medals and certificates to winners of a yoga-themed painting competition organized for students of Aware International School, recognizing their creativity and participation in promoting healthy living.
A Growing Global Movement
International Day of Yoga is observed annually on June 21 following its adoption by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2014 after a proposal by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The resolution received an unprecedented 177 co-sponsoring countries, making it one of the most broadly supported initiatives ever adopted by the UN. Since the inaugural observance in 2015, the event has grown into a worldwide movement promoting physical health, mental well-being, mindfulness, and harmony.
This year’s global celebration placed particular emphasis on healthy ageing, encouraging people of all ages to adopt healthier lifestyles through regular physical activity, breathing exercises, mindfulness, and preventive healthcare practices.
Strengthening India-Liberia Partnership
Beyond promoting health and wellness, the event also highlighted the growing partnership between Liberia and India.
Over the years, India has supported Liberia through scholarships, professional training under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme, healthcare cooperation, capacity-building initiatives, transportation support, and educational exchanges.
Officials from both countries expressed optimism that cooperation in public health and wellness will continue to expand as part of broader bilateral relations.
As the ceremony concluded, participants reaffirmed their commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles and greater public awareness of preventive healthcare, with Dr. Moore encouraging Liberians to embrace practical wellness practices that contribute to longer, healthier, and more productive lives.
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