In a heartfelt and deeply personal decision, Dama Yekeson-Koffa, the wife of embattled House speaker and Deputy CEO for Administration at Liberia’s John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK Medical Center), has announced her resignation. For those who may not be familiar, JFK Medical Center is Liberia’s largest referral hospital, a cornerstone of the nation’s healthcare system. Dama, who is also the wife of House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa, has been a driving force behind many of the hospital’s recent advancements. But now, she’s choosing to step away from her role to focus on something equally important: her family.
In a resignation letter dated February 17, 2025, Dama explained that her decision was not made lightly. She shared that her mother’s health requires her full-time attention, and she feels she can no longer dedicate the energy and focus needed to lead such a critical institution. “I can no longer fully commit to the demands of the position,” she wrote, adding that she doesn’t want to hinder the progress of the JFK Executive Management Team.
A Legacy of Transformation
Dama’s tenure at JFK Medical Center was nothing short of transformative. Under her leadership, the hospital achieved remarkable milestones that have had a lasting impact on healthcare in Liberia. She played a key role in establishing several specialized units, including an Imaging Center, a Dialysis Unit, a Cancer Center, and a Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Unit. These additions have not only expanded the hospital’s capabilities but have also provided critical services to patients who previously had limited options.
Her leadership also saw the renovation of essential facilities, such as the E.S. Grant Mental Health and Rehabilitation Hospital, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and the Medical and Surgical Wards at Memorial Hospital. These improvements have undoubtedly saved lives and improved the quality of care for countless Liberians.
One of her proudest achievements was securing full accreditation for several medical departments, a significant step forward for the hospital’s reputation and standards. She also oversaw the development of the West Africa College of Physicians and Surgeons’ accreditation and introduced banking services at the hospital, making it more accessible and convenient for patients and staff alike.
A Personal Decision Rooted in Love
While her professional accomplishments are undeniable, Dama’s decision to step down reminds us of the delicate balance between career and family. In her letter, she expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to serve at JFK but made it clear that her family must come first. “I need to dedicate full-time attention to my mother’s medical needs,” she wrote, highlighting the universal challenge of caring for aging loved ones while managing a demanding career.
Her resignation is a poignant reminder that even the most accomplished leaders face personal struggles and must sometimes make difficult choices. Dama’s decision to prioritize her family is both relatable and admirable, especially in a world where professional success often takes center stage.
Looking Ahead
Dama concluded her letter with optimism for the future of JFK Medical Center. “I am confident that the medical center will continue to develop and direct the trajectory of clinical healthcare delivery in Liberia,” she wrote. Her confidence in the institution’s ability to thrive without her is a testament to the strong foundation she helped build.
As a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA) and clinical leader, Dama Yekeson-Koffa leaves behind a legacy of progress, compassion, and dedication. While her departure marks the end of an era at JFK Medical Center, it also opens a new chapter in her life, one centered on family, care, and the quiet strength that defines her.
Her story is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just about professional achievements; it’s also about knowing when to step back and focus on what matters most. And for Dama, that’s her family.
