United Nations in Liberia

The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. The UN in Liberia, the Government and Partners are ensuring that the 17 SDGs are achieved in Liberia although emphases are attached to those relevant to the country context.

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30 September 2024

Accelerating Women's Economic Empowerment in Liberia

UN Women Regional Offices for West and Central Africa, along with Eastern and Southern Africa, organized a joint learning week event with members of the Pillar on Women Economic Empowerment (WEE). The WEE Learning event took place in Abuja, Nigeria from 9 to 13 September 2024. Countries in attendances included Nigeria, Malawi, Cote d’Ivoire, Burundi, Kenya, Niger, Mali, Senegal, Uganda, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, Liberia, South Sudan, Mozambique, CAR, South Africa and UN Women Regional Office for West and Central Africa (WCARO) and UN Women Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa (ESARO). Also present were the UN Women Chief for Economic Empowerment and the UN Women Country Representative for Nigeria. The learning event was meant for experience sharing from UN Women Country Offices in these regions, and how the WEE portfolio could aggressively scale up programs and adopt new ones for the economic development of women everywhere. The theme of the learning week event was “Accelerating the progress of WEE in Sub-Saharan Africa amidst changing contexts”. Highlights of Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Flagship ProgramsThe UN Women’s week- long learning event provided the opportunity for collective reflections on strategies, reforms, and mechanisms that the Organization would adopt to support, implement, and accelerate women’s economic empowerment and progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Sub-Saharan Africa. Resource mobilization: Let's be honest, finding funding was a major hurdle for almost everyone. ‘The key takeaway’? The need to work together, share what we know, get the word out, and team up with the government. It's a multi-pronged approach! Additionally, it is beneficial to leverage public private partnership to increase funding for WEE flagship programs on Affirmative procurement. Like Nigeria, Lagos and Kaduna State, seek partnerships with the African Development Bank for the replication of the African Development Bank Women Procurement Compliance Incubator to Support Women-owned Businesses to participate effectively in procurement in Liberia. This idea could be replicated using the opportunity of the implementation of the 2018 new local government law of Liberia. Opportunity for the establishment of an inter-agency program on the AcfTA implementation, ensure gender responsiveness of the domestic trade policies, and collaborate with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) to train women-led businesses on the suitable opportunities that exist. Care Economy also Known as Unpaid Care – Entry Points.UN Women to partner with Ministries of Gender, Children and Social Protection; Finance Development Planning; and Labor to ignite national conversations on the care economy through multi-stakeholders’ dialogue and workshops. The Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS) will be encouraged to initiate a time-user survey and a needs assessment survey for Liberia. In conclusion, Women's economic empowerment, as defined by UN Women, requires concerted action and strong commitment. Women remain key contributors to inclusive economic growth and sustainable development in Liberia. Advancing women's participation and concrete actions in the care, green, and blue economies, as well as in financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and cross-border trade, will not only empower them but also lift a forgotten generation out of poverty. This will pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous Liberia, where every woman can fully realize her economic potential.

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09 September 2024

Empowering Women, Enhancing Lives: The Digital Shift in Liberia’s Agriculture

"In the past, we used to keep our money in metal boxes. Now, with support from the UN Women, Central Bank of Liberia, Orange Foundation, we manage our money through Orange Money. This has made it easier for us to save, credit, and grow our businesses," shares Musu Nana, a Buy from Women Champion from Gbartala, Bong County. In 2022, UN Women Liberia in partnership with the Orange Foundation launched the ‘Digital Inclusion for Women's Economic Empowerment (D4WEE)’ project. The team partnered with Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) and the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) with the aim of empowering rural women farmers in Bong and Nimba Counties by linking them to the formal financial system and improve access to disaster risk reduction. Significant strides have been made since the project's inception. Through collaboration with CBL, 15 women-led Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) were integrated into the formal financial system, benefitting 400 rural women farmers who now have mobile phones and formal bank accounts at the Liberian Bank for Development and Investment (LBDI). Plans are underway to connect these accounts to their Orange Money mobile wallets, providing the women with the financial services needed to grow their businesses and improve their livelihood. The project also introduced a social protection scheme, enabling VSLA members to save, borrow, and invest through digital platforms, promoting financial security among rural women. By leveraging these tools, women now have greater control over their finances and can make informed decisions for their economic well-being. "We are pleased with this new way of handling our Village Savings and Loan Association group. Going digital with our savings and loans has made things simpler and safer for us. Now, we can keep an eye on our money and loans using our phones. It's made everything clearer and smoother for us," says Diana Davis, Community-based Facilitator, Liberia Rural Women Network Empowerment Incorporated. In early August 2024, UN Women Liberia, in partnership with CBL and Orange Foundation Liberia, conducted a four-day Training of Trainers (TOT) workshop in Monrovia for 22 women-led farming cooperatives and agribusiness owners from Bong, Nimba, and Lofa Counties. The training aimed to strengthen women's capacities by providing digital literacy skills and access to employment opportunities. Participants were introduced to the Buy from Women platform and Orange Money services, helping them connect with broader markets and access financial resources. "By enabling these women to become community-based facilitators, we're enhancing their income-generating activities through both traditional and digital innovations," explained Ms. Aisha Kolubah, National Program Officer for Women Economic Empowerment at UN Women Liberia. The workshop covered digital marketing strategies, effective use of social media, and financial management using digital tools. Participants learned how to create engaging content, leverage platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp for business promotion, and streamline financial transactions through mobile banking. UN Women Liberia’s Knowledge Management Specialist, Ms. Alana Pradhan, served as a facilitator, providing insights on leveraging social media for business growth. "Regular and strategic use of social media not only allows you to engage with a broader audience but also empowers you to position your products and services competitively in the market," Ms. Pradhan emphasized. The participants responded enthusiastically to the training, recognizing the potential for expanding their businesses and improving their livelihoods. The Liberia Rural Women Network for Employment expressed their excitement on social media: "We are excited to learn how digital marketing can transform our businesses. This training has opened new avenues for growth and development. We now see the potential to reach larger markets and strengthen our financial independence through digital tools." The success of the TOT workshop and the broader initiative underscores the importance of digital and financial literacy in empowering rural women and fostering economic development. By equipping women with the necessary skills and tools, UN Women Liberia, alongside its partners, is paving the way for sustainable growth and gender equality in the agricultural sector. "This training has not only taught us how to use digital tools but has also connected us to bigger markets and financial services we never had access to before," reflects Musu Nana. "We are now more confident and equipped to grow our businesses and support our families." As these empowered women return to their communities, they carry with them the knowledge and skills to train others, creating a ripple effect of empowerment and economic advancement across Liberia's rural regions. The continued collaboration between UN Women, CBL, and Orange Foundation hopes to further expand these opportunities, ensuring that more women can harness the power of digital technology to transform their lives and communities.

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19 November 2024

UNDP Supports Farming Cooperatives in Bong County

“We don’t have control over pricing our goods, so we often lose,” said John Fahn, the Kpatolee Agriculture Development Cooperative chairperson. This cooperative of 68 members – 53 women and 15 men is engaged in low-land rice, cassava, and vegetable farming.Desperately in need of a warehouse to store their produce after harvesting, Fahn said they must rely on businessmen who have warehouses to buy their goods immediately after harvesting otherwise they lose. He said in many cases buyers negotiate prices far lower than what the products are worth, and farmers are left with no choice but to sell to them.Fahn added that taking the goods to Monrovia from Bong is equally expensive because there is no guarantee that they will be bought on time before they lose value or that they will reach Monrovia in good condition enough to beat the market price value.During a recent interaction with a team from UNDP led by the Resident Representative a.i. Anthony Ohemeng-Boahmah, Fahn explained that the Kpatolee Agriculture Development Cooperative, established in 2018 as a Farmer-Based Organization (FBO), was upgraded to the status of a cooperative in 2023 when receiving support from the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP) managed by UNDP.The ACDP is a flagship initiative of the Government of Liberia aimed at reducing poverty and inequality between urban and rural communities in the most vulnerable and hard-to-reach areas.The team visited two cooperatives supported by the programme – Kpatolee Agriculture Development Cooperative in Flehla and Bong Kuka’tonon Cooperative in Donfah Bong County, a central region of Liberia.“We were disorganized or disarranged with nothing like unity among us…we had no specific place to be found and lacked sufficient education to operate as a business to reduce poverty,” said Fanh.To reduce food insecurity, Fahn said the cooperative aims to upgrade from subsistence farming to mechanized farming. He mentioned that the support of the ACDP has added value to their cooperative as they are now recognized.Reiterating Fanh’s comments, the Chairperson of the Bong Kuka'tonon Cooperative, Esther Giddings noted that with support provided under the ACDP, both cooperatives have transformed into legal entities trusted by members to do business with.Giddings said Kuka’tonon Cooperative with 76 members, 40 of whom are women, now has a fully functional bank account.“Although the cooperative has no members with disabilities, we welcome anyone interested in joining us,” she noted.Showcasing their produce, excited members spoke about the achievements of the cooperative since they received farming equipment such as a tractor and trailer, rice milling machine, rice trasher, cassava milling machine and in addition solar power boreholes and water kiosks.With all this equipment, the members say farming has become easier and more enjoyable as the post-harvest process is no longer stressful.“Our women no longer walk long distances to get water in the community because now through the ACDP, the government of Liberia is erecting solar power boreholes,” explained Alaska B. Williams, a member of the cooperative.The cooperatives are currently building offices which include a storeroom for their produce, a conference hall for meetings and an office.“UNDP trusted us, and we are grateful because this is a lifetime investment even for our children,” said ecstatic Giddings.The UNDP Resident Representative a. i. Anthony Ohemeng-Boamah and his team were heartily welcomed with chants of joy while addressing both communities. Ohemeng-Boamah stressed that there was no reason for Liberia to be in poverty because it has the resources needed to improve the livelihood of the people.He encouraged the cooperatives to make positive use of the support they receive to be able to continue working on their farms beyond the project cycle.Both cooperatives are contributing towards the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 1 and 2 which are No Poverty and Zero Hunger respectively.Overall, the cooperatives contribute towards the achievement of SDGs 5 – Gender Equality, 10 – Reduced Inequalities, and 12 – Responsible Consumption Production.The ACDP was launched in 2022 by the Government of Liberia with an initial USD 3 million funding out of USD 100 million that was committed for the first three years. UNDP serves as the implementing partner to this programme and has supported the distribution of machinery, equipment, farming tools, seedlings and other supplies and accessories to 14 farmer cooperatives in six counties across Liberia including Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Lofa, Nimba and Rivercess.Over One hundred and Forty thousand United States dollars (20,000 USD to each cooperative) has also been disbursed to selected farmer cooperatives as operational expenses.

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16 September 2024

The Special Representative Leonardo Santos Simão of UNOWAS concludes his visit to Liberia

The Special Representative of the Secretary General for the UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) has concluded a two-day visit to Liberia.During his visit, the Special Representative was received in audience by H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, President of the Republic of Liberia in the presence of H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of State. He also held meetings with H.E. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection; and former Presidents of Liberia, H.E Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Manneh Weah as well as the ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia.The Special Representative commended the people of Liberia for its unstinting efforts towards reinforcing democratic governance, national unity and peace. He encouraged the authorities and all stakeholders to continue upholding their commitment for inclusive dialogue, promotion of human rights and rule of law, critical to sustainable peace and development. He commended Liberia’s progress in promoting youth and gender equality and encouraged the authorities to include more women and youth groups in the political processes and development efforts.The Special Representative also held discussions with Civil society organizations, the United Nations country team, and members of the diplomatic corps. He encouraged the development partners to continue supporting Liberia in facing the challenges through ownership and also the civil society to promote full participation of citizens in the development process while managing expectations.The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to continue its support to Liberia’s path towards social cohesion, peace, and prosperity.

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16 August 2024

Gov’t, United Nations and Partners conclude County Consultations in a bid to Foster Inclusive Governance for National Development

The Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has successfully completed a nationwide consultative process aimed at shaping the County Development Agenda.The consultative meetings, which were held across the 15 counties and officially climaxed in Bentol City, Montserrado County, advanced the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) that aligned with development priorities with the needs and aspirations of local communities. During the nationwide meetings, the government solicited the views and input of citizens on the country’s new development plan.Supported by the United Nations and the Government of Sweden, the consultations gathered a diverse group of participants, including government officials, development partners, civil society representatives, and local residents, all committed to contributing to Liberia’s future.Madam Tanneh G. Brunson, Deputy Minister for Budget and Development Planning at the Ministry of Finance, emphasized the importance of citizen involvement in the development process. Reflecting on President Joseph N. Boakai’s vision, she stated:“His Excellency strongly believes that to genuinely participate and take ownership of any development projects or programs, we must shift away from the traditional way of planning where policymakers sit in offices and decide what people’s priorities should be."Brunson detailed the recent nationwide consultations, saying, “Over the past three and a half weeks, the government has consulted with a broad spectrum of citizens, including civil society actors, across all 15 counties. We are determined to ensure that their voices are heard in deciding what their priorities are.”She explained the significance of these consultations within the broader framework of district and county engagements. “We all know that district and county consultations are ongoing,” she said. “These discussions, which involve the 11 broadened sectors — comprising ministries, agencies, and commissions — are essential to charting the country’s direction over the next five years.”Brunson elaborated on the impact of the Local Government Act, noting its role in decentralizing decision-making. “The development of the County Development Agenda and the county budget will be one of the key avenues for decision-making at the local level. Local government will now play a greater role alongside the national government in driving public services,” she explained. “This revolution will not only transfer resources but will also strengthen decentralization and improve the quality of life for communities, especially those distant from economic centers.”She assured participants that their input would be compiled and reviewed for inclusion in the final document. “Your contributions are invaluable, and we will ensure that what you said is captured in the final document,” Brunson affirmed.Dr. Clement Lugala Peters, United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i., praised the Liberian government’s commitment to inclusive planning and acknowledged the leadership of President Joseph N. Boakai and Vice President Jeremiah K. Koung for their active participation. “It is both an honor and a privilege to witness this important gathering in Montserrado County,” Dr. Clement said. “The demonstrated national leadership and ownership of this process is commendable. It speaks volumes about the government’s commitment to transforming the lives of Liberians.”Dr. Clement recognized the role of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning in guiding the ARREST Agenda’s national and county planning process. “The ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development National Plan, coupled with the County Development Agendas and the Public Sector, will transform the lives of Liberians once implemented,” he added. He expressed admiration for the thorough execution of the district and national consultations.Emphasizing the ARREST Agenda’s significance in sustainable development, Dr. Clement remarked, “This agenda will identify the country’s development priorities, contributing to peace dividends and sustainable development. It must be anchored on international commitments, particularly the SDG Transitions, which will accelerate Liberia’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).” He stressed that the change will be most visible at the county level, making local contributions vital.Dr. Clement lauded the government’s inclusive approach, stating: “Today’s consultations in Montserrado County demonstrate the government’s commitment to developing a plan that leaves no one behind. The importance of this consultative process cannot be overemphasized. It captures the aspirations and priorities of Liberians and will guide transformative development for the country.”In conclusion, Clement reaffirmed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Liberia’s ARREST Agenda and Vision 2030. “The United Nations and Development Partners will align their support with the ARREST Agenda’s vision and plan. This process coincides with the Governments preparation for the Summit of The Future in September, providing an opportune moment for Liberia to present its recommendations on the global stage,” he explained.Dr. Clement emphasized the UN’s dedication to collaborating with the government, private sector, and civil society organizations to achieve Liberia’s developmental goals. “Together, we will support Liberia’s transformation and renewal, guided by the principles of effective development cooperation, which include strengthening ownership, deepening mutual accountability, and ensuring the sustainability of development for all Liberians,” he concluded.

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19 November 2024

Strengthening Liberia’s capacity to detect and manage epidemics through genomic sequencing and bioinformatics

With support from the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) and the Ministry of Health concluded a residential hands-on in-country training on genomic sequencing and bioinformatics at the National Public Health Reference Laboratory (NPHRL) from 29 September to 19 October 2024 in Margibi County. Facilitated by a team of experts from the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research in Ghana, a total of 10 national laboratory technicians received a 2-week intensive training followed by a 1-week practice session. Genomic surveillance plays a critical role in tracking emerging pathogen variants. It has become a fundamental global public health tool for detecting, monitoring, and responding to infectious disease outbreaks, as demonstrated by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pandemic. During the in-country training, national laboratory scientists analyzed additional mpox-positive samples and detected another mpox strain, clade IIb.“Before the training, we were reliant on international laboratories to identify the circulating pathogen strains. Now, we have the capability to conduct sequencing and bioinformatics analysis in-country, enabling us to rapidly identify emerging pathogens and their geographic origins," Francis Omega Somah, laboratory technologist at the National Reference Laboratory in Liberia.This training is a significant milestone in the integration of pathogen genomics and bioinformatics into public health surveillance, outbreak detection, and investigation, which will enhance disease control and prevention efforts in Liberia. “This is a game-changer for the country as we will now have the national capacity to sequence and characterize pathogens of epidemic prone diseases in our country. We thank WHO for this strategic investment and their continuous technical and financial support towards strengthening Liberia's capacity to detect and manage epidemics," said Dr Dougbeh Nyan, Director General of NPHIL. In 2022, WHO published a global genomic surveillance strategy to support countries in expanding their capacities. Unfortunately, 50% of Member States, including Liberia, lacked domestic sequencing capacity. To address this gap, WHO, under the AFRO HERA project, is supporting six African nations: Liberia, Burundi, the Central African Republic, Comoros, Eritrea, and Togo to establish and strengthen genomic sequencing and bioinformatics capacity, thereby expanding detection and genomic surveillance of epidemic-prone priority pathogens across the African Region. WHO has significantly invested on the continent in infectious disease and genomics surveillance. “The most important aspect of capacity building is training the right experts. When a country has skilled professionals with the right platform, expertise, and infrastructure, they can respond swiftly and effectively to public health emergencies,” said Dr. Coulibaly Sheik, WHO AFRO Lead Diagnostic and Laboratory Services Unit.Dr. Peter Clement, WHO Country Representative, thanked the team of facilitators and WHO AFRO for supporting Liberia through the EU-funded project which will strengthen the country’s laboratory systems. “By empowering local experts with the skills to conduct genomic sequencing and bioinformatics analysis, we are ensuring that Liberia is better prepared to rapidly identify emerging threats and implement timely interventions,” said Dr. Peter Clement, WHO Liberia Representative.

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Group of people in white coats standing together

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28 October 2024

UN Liberia celebrates UN Day 2024 with launch of first regional UN Hub

Tools Donation by the UN in Liberia to Grand Gedeh Superintendent’s OfficeZwedru, October 17, 2024- In preparation for the UN Day 2024 celebrations and launch of the first UN Hub, a donation of supplies for cleanup of Zwedru City was donated by the UN In Liberia to County authorities. Speaking during the turnover ceremony, Ngonga Margaret Gulavic. Head of RCO, noted that these supplies were donated in support of the cleanup exercise that the County authorities was carrying out to give the city a facelift ahead of the UN Hub launch and UN Day on October 24th. The County Superintendent, Honorable Alex Grant expressed his appreciation for the gesture, highlighting the cordial relationship with the UN team on the ground in Zwedru. He assured that all was on course for the launch of the Hub and the UN day celebrations. “Grand Gedeh welcomes the UN to our county, and we are looking forward to October 24th. Spirits are high and we anticipate that the events will go very well”, he stated. Supplies and tools included cutlasses, wheelbarrows, shovels, gallons of paint, amongst others. Children and Adolescents from Zwedru highlight their aspirations for a Sustainable FutureAs part of events leading to the launch of UN Liberia’s regional hub in Zwedru, Southeast Liberia, students from various schools in the city painted colorful depictions of what they envision their future to be in Liberia. Student Clarence Toenah of the Zwedru Multilateral High School was one of the participants on this occasion. “When I look forward to my future, I see better, modern roads and electricity. I also so conservation of our forest and animals”. Other students highlighted schools, clean water and health facilities. The paintings are currently on display at the One UN Hub in Zwedru. Zwedru comes alive with parade of students, UN and county officials in Commemoration of UN Day and Hub launchExciting scenes from Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County on October 23rd as local authorities, students, and UN Staff came together for a colorful parade in anticipation of UN Day/ UN Hub launch on October 24, 2024. An inter-school football and kickball tournament. These various recreational activities brought together hundreds of pupils from primary and secondary schools in and around the town of Zwedru. UN Liberia’s first regional Hub is launched in ZwedruAll roads in Zwedru led to the One UN Hub on White Avenue on October 24th morning, as the brief ceremony for the opening of the Hub commenced. The UN Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team, UN staff, county authorities, partners and government officials were present. The Minister of Internal Affairs, F. Sakila Nyumalin and the Minister of Education, Dr. Jarso Jallah, who represented His Excellency President Joseph Nyumah Boakai, also graced the occasion. After welcome remarks and hoisting of the flags, the Hub was then opened by the cutting of the ribbon. The event climaxed with a tour of the Hub by the guests present. UN Day Official CeremonyThe official programme for the UN Day Commemoration followed the launching of the Hub at the Tori Vii Hall in Zwedru. Exuberant songs from the Zwedru Mass choir roused the crowd and inspiring speeches followed. The Superintendent of Greater Gedeh began by welcoming the Minister of National Education, representing the President of the Republic, the Minister of Internal Affairs, his own Minister, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, and the entire United Nations family in Liberia. On behalf of all his fellow Superintendents, he went on to express his delight at the Southeast region's hosting of the first United Nations Hub in Liberia, as well as welcoming the UN Day celebrations outside the capital for the first time. Finally, he expressed the fervent hope that this proximity to the interventions of the United Nations system would have a positive impact on the communities of Greater Gedeh and the South-East as a whole.On behalf of the entire UN family in Liberia, the United Nations Resident Coordinator, Christine Umutoni first and foremost expressed her deep gratitude to the government and county authorities, whose commitment to the event resulted in it being a resounding success. “The presence of two important members of the cabinet, including the Minister of Education, personal representative of the President of the Republic, speaks volumes about the political will. I want to extend my thanks to the communities, in particular the young people, women, and local authorities, and emphasize that the massive mobilization over two days was proof enough of the enthusiasm and warm welcome shown by the communities”, said Resident Coordinator Umutoni. “The Hub is not just a building, but is the UN working closer with communities and leaving no one behind”, she emphasized.She noted that the Hub is a commitment of the United Nations to contribute to the acceleration of the SDGs in Liberia for the benefit of women, children, young people, and the entire community. The Minister of Internal Affairs, Honorable F. Sakila Nyumalin, focused his speech on the opportunity presented by the opening of a Hub for the entire United Nations system in the South-East region. “The Hub establishment is an important pool for boosting social and economic development throughout the country, and ultimately for the well-being of the communities.” The Minister emphasized that this Hub is fully in line with the decentralization policy, which is part of the county development plan within the Arrest Agenda Inclusive Development. Finally, the Minister urged the United Nations family to work to make this Hub a true pool of integration and complementarity to accelerate the achievement of the SDGs in the country for the benefit of the people. The Minister of Education, Dr. Jarso Jallah, representing the President of the Republic, spoke first and foremost to the communities of Grand Gedeh and the South-East as a whole, to convey to them the distinguished greetings and deep gratitude of the President of the Republic. The Minister recalled Liberia's place and historic commitment within the United Nations system, of which it is a founding member. “The concept of the Hub, which is a community-centered base approach (celebration of UN day and launch of UN Hub in Zwedru), is consistent with itself and in full compliance with the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which focuses on decentralization and community-based development, particularly at county level. “The Minister urged the United Nations family to stay the course so that this more community-based approach has a rapid impact on the well-being of communities. A special message was also delivered by Student Tina Chapayee on the aspirations of the youth- better education, protection from SGBV and opportunities. She passionately urged government and development partners including the UN, not to give up on the youth of Liberia.

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11 September 2024

Summit of the Future: The Hopes and Aspirations of Liberia’s Youthful Population

As the saying goes, “nothing about us without us”. On September 11, at the Ministerial Complex in Monrovia, this couldn’t be truer, as the consultations, validation and consensus-building around the Global Summit of the Future was attended by Liberia’s youth and children. The process, led by the government of Liberia through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning; Ministry of Youth and Sports; Ministry of Gender, Children& Social Protection is supported by the United Nations in Liberia.From the start of the meeting, it was clear that the participants had a clear vision of what they wanted to contribute. Roberto Cooper Jr., speaking on behalf of the Children’s Forum noted that Human Rights (Children’s Rights), Digital Technology, and Governance are their three positions for advocacy. “To realize our full potential, we all must continuously remind policy makers of these protocols (on Children’s rights)”, he stated, as he called for full implementation of the Convention on Child’s Rights in Liberia. Another key point he highlighted was the importance of digital technology and the digital divide. “Digital technology exacts influence on how we learn, connect and play as children. Harnessing the potential of technology for children while mitigating the negative impact is crucial. He strongly recommended increasing accessibility and affordability for the children of Liberia to reach their aspirations and dreams for a better future. Joining their younger counterparts, the youth, represented by Banica Elliot, President of the Federation of Liberian Youth, also presented their hopes for a better future for all Liberian youth. She noted inclusivity in governance, better education systems, job opportunities, social cohesion and national stability as cardinal to youth’s vision of a better tomorrow. UN Resident Coordinator, Christine Umutoni, speaking on behalf of the UN in Liberia lauded the approach of the government in having the children and youth present the country’s position on a global stage. She stressed her delight in supporting and hearing the aspirations and voices of the children and young people seated around the table. “Young people bring innovative ideas and think out of the box”, she stated. She further noted that having everyone around the table enables ownership and empowerment of all stakeholders. ” With you all, our future is in safe hands”, she concluded. Deputy Minister of Finance and Development Planning, as well as the Deputy Ministers of Youth & Sports and Gender, Children & Social Protection commended the partnership with the United Nations Family for their support to the consultation process of the Summit of the Future. BackgroundThe age structure of the population of Liberia is young; 63 per cent is less than 25 years old and 32.8 per cent is 10-24 years old. The youth and children face formidable challenges, including limited access to employment, technology, education etc. The Summit is a high-level event, which brings world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on how we deliver a better present and safeguard the future. Liberia has been preparing for this Summit following the request from the Government to the UNRC for support, and a roadmap guide for the preparation developed. As part of this roadmap, consultations were held at the county level, and with Children and youths. The National Forum seeks to bring all this information together to prepare an evidence-informed country position for the global summit, scheduled to be held from 22-23 September 2024. The SoTF builds on the SDGs summit last year.The summit is proposed out of the recognition that effective global cooperation is increasingly critical to survival but may be difficult to achieve in an atmosphere of mistrust, using outdated structures that no longer reflect today’s political and economic realities. The SOTF is therefore a once-in-a-generation opportunity that serves as a moment to mend eroded trust and demonstrate that international cooperation can effectively achieve agreed goals and tackle emerging threats and opportunities. In September, world leaders will convene at the United Nations to adopt the Pact for the Future, which will include a Global Digital Compact and a Declaration on Future Generations. In preparation for this, Liberia is holding a National Forum (dubbed, the Liberia Summit of the Future) to craft a common country position.

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19 July 2024

President Boakai formally launches processes leading to crafting of ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development

Liberian President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., has initiated the formal processes for developing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), which includes the Public Sector Investment Plan (PSIP) and the fifteen County Development Agendas (CDAs).This launch occurred during a meeting of the National Steering Committee at the Ellen Johnson Ministerial Complex on Monday, July 18, 2024, where President Boakai emphasized the importance of collaboration with stakeholders to ensure a unified vision for Liberia's future.President Boakai underscored that crafting these plans involves engaging development partners and stakeholders to chart a strategic course for Liberia over the next five years.He stressed the need for comprehensive societal engagement to collectively determine the nation's direction.President Boakai reassured Liberians that his government is committed to elevating Liberia to greater heights, ensuring a future that all citizens can be proud of.He emphasized the need to tailor the economy to benefit ordinary Liberians, particularly through investments in agriculture and other key sectors.His vision includes empowering Liberians to achieve prosperity, stating, "It’s time to see Liberians become millionaires through their investments."In his opening remarks, Acting Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Anthony G. Myers, expressed appreciation to stakeholders gathered for a pivotal meeting aimed at crafting the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).He outlined the AAID as a comprehensive five-year medium-term strategy spanning from 2025 to 2029, which encompasses a National Development Plan, a Sector Investment Plan (PSIP), and specific development agendas tailored for each of Liberia's fifteen counties.Minister Myers underscored the significance of the AAID National Steering Committee meeting, emphasizing its role in updating stakeholders on the progress of the planning process.He highlighted the importance of consolidating support from all stakeholders, including political backing, resource allocation, and technical expertise.The meeting also aimed to outline the subsequent steps in the agenda's implementation.To facilitate effective planning and coordination, Minister Myers announced the engagement of two local consultancy firms to collaborate with Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP) technicians in formulating the AAID.Additionally, the procurement of four vehicles was planned to enhance national and sub-national coordination efforts.Looking ahead, Minister Myers disclosed that sector engagements at the national level were scheduled to commence by July 19, 2024.Simultaneously, consultations at the county and district levels were set to begin on July 22, 2024, spanning a period of 25 days.These consultations are pivotal for gathering input and ensuring that the AAID reflects the diverse needs and aspirations of Liberian communities across the country.Overall, Minister Myers' remarks underscored the proactive steps taken by the Liberian government to develop a robust framework for inclusive development through the AAID, ensuring comprehensive engagement and effective implementation at all levels of governance.For his part, Dr. Peter-Lasuba Clement, the United Nations Resident Coordinator a.i. , commended President Joseph Boakai for his exemplary leadership in advancing the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID) and its County Development Agendas (CDAs).At the occasion, Dr. Clement underscored that these initiatives are pivotal for fostering effective development cooperation and collaboration under the leadership of the Liberian government.He emphasized the importance of mutual accountability among key stakeholders, including the Government of Liberia, the United Nations, Development Partners, and others, ensuring that interventions benefit all Liberians, particularly the vulnerable and those in rural areas, while safeguarding against misuse of funds.Dr. Clement highlighted the significance of inclusive processes embedded in the AAID and CDAs, stressing principles such as diversity, equity, human rights integration, gender equality, women's empowerment, social protection, youth employment, and nutrition.These principles, he emphasized, are essential for aligning Liberia's aspirations with national strategies aimed at leaving no one behind. Inclusive growth, according to Dr. Peter-Lasuba Clement, aims to strengthen local communities, support marginalized groups, reduce disparities, and promote equitable and sustainable development both at the county and national levels.

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Press Release

16 September 2024

The Special Representative Leonardo Santos Simão concludes his visit to Liberia, he encourages the authorities and all stakeholders to continue upholding their commitment for inclusive dialogue, promotion of human rights and rule of law  Dakar, 13 September 2024- As part of his continued regional engagement, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, concluded today a two-day visit to Liberia. During his visit, the Special Representative was received in audience by H.E. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, President of the Republic of Liberia in the presence of H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of State. He also held meetings with H.E. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection; and former Presidents of Liberia, H.E Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and George Manneh Weah as well as the ECOWAS Ambassador to Liberia. The Special Representative commended the people of Liberia for its unstinting efforts towards reinforcing democratic governance, national unity and peace. He encouraged the authorities and all stakeholders to continue upholding their commitment for inclusive dialogue, promotion of human rights and rule of law, critical to sustainable peace and development. He commended Liberia's progress in promoting youth and gender equality and encouraged the authorities to include more women and youth groups in the political processes and development efforts. The Special Representative also held discussions with Civil society organizations, the United Nations country team, and members of the diplomatic corps. He encouraged the development partners to continue supporting Liberia in facing the challenges through ownership and also the civil society to promote full participation of citizens in the development process while managing expectations. The Special Representative of the Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel reaffirmed the commitment of the United Nations to continue its support to Liberia’s path towards social cohesion, peace, and prosperity. COMMUNIQUE DE PRESSE Le Représentant Spécial Leonardo Santos Simão Conclut sa visite Au LiberiaIl encourage les autorités et toutes les parties prenantes à continuer de respecter leur engagement en faveur d'un dialogue inclusif, de la promotion des droits de l'homme et de l'État de droit Dakar, 13 septembre 2024- Dans le cadre de son engagement régional continu, le Représentant spécial du Secrétaire général et Chef du Bureau des Nations Unies pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest et le Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, a conclu aujourd'hui une visite de deux jours au Libéria. Au cours de sa visite, le Représentant spécial a été reçu en audience par S.E. M. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Président de la République du Libéria, en présence de S.E. M. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, ministre des Affaires étrangères et Ministre d'État. Il s'est également entretenu avec S.E.M. Gbeme Horace-Kollie, Ministre du Genre, de l'Enfance et de la Protection sociale, et les anciens Présidents du Libéria, S.E. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf et George Manneh Weah, ainsi que l'Ambassadeur de la CEDEAO au Libéria. Le Représentant spécial a félicité le peuple libérien pour les efforts inlassables qu'il déploie en vue de renforcer la gouvernance démocratique, l'unité nationale et la paix. Il a encouragé les autorités et toutes les parties prenantes à continuer de respecter leur engagement en faveur d'un dialogue inclusif, de la promotion des droits de l'homme et de l'État de droit, essentiels à une paix et à un développement durables. Il a salué les progrès accomplis par le Libéria dans la promotion de la jeunesse et de l'égalité des sexes et a encouragé les autorités à inclure davantage de femmes et de groupes de jeunes dans les processus politiques et les efforts de développement. Le Représentant spécial s'est également entretenu avec des organisations de la société civile, l'équipe de pays des Nations Unies et des membres du corps diplomatique. Il a encouragé les partenaires de développement à continuer d'aider le Libéria à relever les défis par l'appropriation et la société civile à promouvoir la pleine participation des citoyens au processus de développement tout en répondant aux attentes. Le Représentant spécial du Secrétaire général pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest et le Sahel a réaffirmé l'engagement des Nations Unies à continuer de soutenir le Libéria sur la voie de la cohésion sociale, de la paix et de la prospérité. ### Bureau de la Communication Stratégique et de l’Information Publique / Strategic Communications and Public Information OfficeKouider Zerrouk, Chef de bureau / SCPIO Chief – (+221) 33 869 85 60 / 77 332 49 28 – zerrouk@un.orgAngelita Mendy Diop, Chargée de communication / Public Information Officer– (+221) 33 869 85 47 / 76 721 78 92 – mendya@un.orgAlpha Ciré Kane, Public Information Assistant / Webmaster – (+221) 869 8585 / 77 528 0985 – alpha.kane@un.org ● www.unowas.unmissions.org ● Facebook.com/UNOWAS ● Twitter.com/UN_UNOWASNgor, route de la plage – PO Box 23 851, Dakar Ponty (Sénégal)

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Press Release

27 August 2024

OHCHR launches public report on human rights issues in the context of 2023 Elections in Liberia

The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has issued a public report entitled “Human rights issues in the context of General Elections and Presidential run-off in Liberia, 10 October and 14 November 2023”. The report presents findings from human rights monitoring activities conducted by OHCHR in Liberia between August and December 2023. It also contains follow-up information on incidents or decisions that happened after this period. The report provides an overview of human rights issues observed during the electoral period such as arbitrary arrests and detentions, violations of freedom of opinion and expression, hate speech and incitement to violence, violations of rights to peaceful assembly, and violations of the right to freedom of movement. It also examines the participation of women and persons with disabilities in Liberia's 2023 elections, highlighting challenges and recommendations for more inclusion. The OHCHR Representative in Liberia Mr. Christian Mukosa observed that “The 2023 legislative and presidential elections were praised by many, including the United Nations, as peaceful, transparent, free and fair contributing to lasting peace, stability and development in the country and the region, setting a good example for other African countries to emulate. The objective of this report is to highlight human rights issues observed and propose key recommendations to the government and various stakeholders to improve things during next cycles of elections that Liberia will organize”. The report provides recommendations to the Liberian Government and the international community to strengthen the electoral processes and ensure accountability for human rights violations and abuses. Further, the report highlights the role OHCHR played within the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Liberia to ensure that a human rights-based approach applied throughout the electoral process. Through the electoral period, as part of its overall human rights mandate and in line with the broader UNCT strategy, OHCHR held several engagements with strategic actors including government officials, members of the security forces, Civil Society Organizations, the National Elections Commission, and members of the international community to ensure human rights remains at the heart of the electoral process. As part of the National Steering Committee on Elections, OHCHR advised the other members of this important body on the human rights-based approach and integration of human rights in decision making processes. “Creating a safe and enabling environment for the exercise of the right to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly and association is essential for fostering participation and ensuring inclusive and credible elections with results reflecting the will of the people” stressed Mr. Mukosa. The report notes limited accountability for the human rights violations and acts of violence that were observed by OHCHR during the electoral period and calls for investigations. “All incidents of election-related violence must be fully and independently investigated and those found responsible held to account without undue delay”, he said. He concluded that “it is important to ensure there is no impunity for violations and acts of violences that were documented during the elections, and to ensure justice is served to the victims”. OHCHR will continue to engage the government, the National Elections Commission and all other stakeholders through advocacy, provision of technical assistance, monitoring of human rights in the electoral context, to ensure that elections organised in the country meet international human rights standards and that they are held in an environment in which everyone can exercise their fundamental rights without fear. Ends.

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Press Release

27 August 2024

United Nations Peacebuilding Commission Press Statement on Liberia

On 19 August 2024, the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) convened a meeting on Liberia, chaired by the Permanent Representative of Sweden to the United Nations, with the participation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Republic of Liberia, the National Security Advisor of the Republic of Liberia and other senior government officials from Liberia, representatives of the Civil Society Human Rights Platform of Liberia and the Federation of Liberian Youth, as well as senior UN officials, including the Deputy Head of the Peacebuilding Support Office and the Resident Coordinator ad interim. The meeting focused on Liberia’s peacebuilding and sustaining peace priorities, in particular transitional justice and youth inclusion. During the meeting, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to peacebuilding and sustaining democratic progress. Recognizing the importance of international support, the Minister of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for greater cooperation for Liberia to achieve its aspirations for transitional justice and youth empowerment. The Minister of Foreign Affairs noted that Liberia stands at a pivotal moment in its history and stated that with the support of the international community Liberia can address the root causes of conflict, promote justice and accountability, empower youth, and build a more peaceful and prosperous nation. The Peacebuilding Commission reiterated its commitment to supporting Liberia in building and sustaining peace.The Commission commended Liberia for the peaceful general elections in 2023, the first held under the sole responsibility of Liberian authorities following the withdrawal of UNMIL in 2018. The Commission also commended Liberia’s work on transitional justice and the firm commitment of the Government of Liberia to implement the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). This includes the establishment of the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court (OWECC) as outlined in Executive Order 131/2024 of 2 May 2024. The Commission welcomed Liberia’s commitment to develop a first National Action Plan (NAP) on Youth, Peace and Security (YPS). The Commission also welcomed the launch in June 2024, of the Youth, Peace and Security National Coalition in Liberia, which will coordinate efforts at the national and local levels on the development of the NAP, applying localized approaches to the implementation of resolutions 2250 (2015), 2419 (2018) and 2535 (2020). The Commission underlined the need for the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) to continue to support Liberia's peacebuilding efforts. *****Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-GeneralUnited Nations T: +1 212 963 7160New York, USA www.un.org/sg/en/spokesperson Twitter / Instagram / Whatsapp

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Press Release

16 August 2024

Joint Government of Liberia and United Nations Statement on International Youth Day

The Government of Liberia and the United Nations Country Team in Liberia (UNCT) join the rest of the world to commemorate International Youth Day 2024. In 1999, the United Nations General Assembly declared August 12 every year as International Youth Day (IYD) to recognize and promote the active participation of young people in all aspects of society. This year’s theme, "From Clicks to Progress: Youth Digital Pathways for Sustainable Development," aligns perfectly with Liberia’s commitment to harnessing the power of digital technology to drive sustainable development and create opportunities for youth. The Government of Liberia and the United Nations Country Team acknowledge the transformational role of digital technology in empowering young people to drive economic growth and social progress and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Liberia. In an era where technology is rapidly evolving, it is necessary to equip young people with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate and leverage digital platforms safely and effectively. The theme for this year’s commemoration encourages us to support young people to transition their digital engagements ("clicks") to tangible outcomes ("progress") that contribute to national development. As the UN Secretary-General emphasized in his 2024 IYD statement, “Young people are the architects of our future. They are the ones who will shape the world we live in. Investing in their digital skills and access is investing in our collective future.”Despite the growth in internet penetration in Liberia and the availability of digital tools such as computers and smartphones, a wide gap exists between urban and rural populations. The 2022 Liberia Population and Housing Census indicates that only 16 percent of adolescents and youth in the country have access to computers. To this end, the Government of Liberia is dedicated to raising digital awareness among the youth, recognizing that access to and use of digital technologies are vital for empowering young people to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s socio-economic development. Therefore, this year’s celebration focuses on showcasing the positive impact of digital technology on education, employment, and entrepreneurship. By highlighting youth-led and youth-focused institutions excelling in digital innovation, we inspire a generation of digital-savvy leaders who can drive progress in various sectors.The Government of Liberia and the United Nations are joint partners fully committed to fostering an environment where young people can actively and safely participate in the digital economy through programmes and policies supporting digital literacy, technology access, and innovation. Our collaboration aims to ensure that no young person is left behind in this digital revolution. We are particularly focused on bridging the digital divide, ensuring that all youth, regardless of their background, have the opportunity to thrive in a digital world.In many ways, we are taking important steps to achieve this goal. For instance, under the framework of the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) supported “Accelerating Digital Opportunities for Youth Civic Participation as a lever for Building and Sustaining Peace in Liberia” project, the UN is supporting the Government to empower youth-led, young women-led, and youth with disability with digital tools and training to accelerate digital literary, inclusion and livelihoods. As part of the 2022 Liberia Population and Housing Census, the government made significant use of new technologies and innovative solutions, including digital mapping, Computer Assisted Personal Interviews, Geographic Information Systems for georeferenced data collection, online recruitment of data collectors, and the use of cloud solutions for data storage. Such interventions are needed to unlock the potential of Liberian youth to leapfrog into the global digital space and contribute to the economic transformation and sustainable development agenda of Liberia.Further, we will prioritize actions to expand digital access and literacy. These include investing in robust infrastructure, affordable internet connectivity, and digital skills training; creating digital opportunities through support to youth-led digital initiatives, entrepreneurship, and innovation to drive economic growth and job creation; promoting digital safety and ethics by ensuring a safe and inclusive digital environment and regulatory framework to protect young people from online harm and all forms of exploitation and abuse and; strengthening youth participation in decision-making processes related to digital policy and development.The Government of Liberia and the UN call on all stakeholders—youth organizations, educational institutions, the private sector, civil society, and development partners—to join these efforts to promote and strengthen digital pathways for sustainable development for and with the youth. Together, we can ensure that the digital transformation benefits all young people, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to achieving the SDGs and the overall development of Liberia. ---End--- Jointly issued by:Hon. Jeror Cole Bangalu Minister of Youth and Sports Republic of Liberia Dr. Peter Clement UN Resident Coordinator a.i United Nations – Liberia

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Press Release

22 March 2024

High Level Delegation of South Sudanese Women Leaders and Electoral Stakeholders Visit Liberia for Learning and Experience Sharing Mission Ahead of their First General Elections since Independence

A delegation from the Republic of South Sudan supported by UN Women will embark on a south - south learning and experience sharing mission to Liberia from 23 to 31 March 2024. The mission will seek to engage and learn from Liberia’s conduct of peaceful elections, including support to women political participation and women’s movement building. The visit is intended to draw insights that will positively inform preparations by women in South Sudan towards their upcoming first General elections in December 2024. The visiting delegation will comprise officials from institutions including; Political Parties Council, the Transitional National Legislative Assembly, the Judicial Reform Commission, National Transformational Leadership Institute (University of Juba), South Sudan Women’s Coalition, the Centre for Inclusive Governance, Peace and Justice, National Press Club of South Sudan and the UN Women South Sudan Office. The opportunity for experience-sharing by government, civil society and electoral stakeholders from South Sudan and their Liberia counterparts will spotlight amongst others, strategies employed to address barriers to women’s participation in public life and to prevent violence against women in elections in the recently concluded Liberia elections. The delegation is expected to meet with Government officials including Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection, the National Elections Commission, the Women Legislative Caucus of Liberia, the Justice Sector, the United Nations Country Team in Liberia and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). It is expected that the mission will lay important foundations for closer cooperation and working relations between women in South Sudan and Liberia. UN Women is the United Nations entity dedicated to gender equality and the empowerment of women, champions global efforts to accelerate progress towards meeting the needs of women and girls worldwide. By positioning gender equality as fundamental to the sustainable Development Goals, UN Women works towards creating a more inclusive world for all. For More information please contact: -Gloriah GanyaniUN Women Liberia Communications SpecialistE-mail: gloria.ganyani@unwomen.orgTel: 0776866201 #ENDS#

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