National SDG Consultative workshop: UN Recommits to Supporting Liberia’s Journey towards Sustainable Development

This event, a two-day national consultation and validation process, focused on accelerating and transforming the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in preparation for the upcoming global SDGs Summit. The government of Liberia, in collaboration with the United Nations in Liberia, spearheaded this consultation and validation exercise, which took place at the Monrovia City-Hall from September 6 & 8.

The primary objective of this workshop was to assess Liberia's progress, challenges, and opportunities in implementing the SDGs, particularly focusing on poverty reduction, equality enhancement, strengthening institutions, and mechanisms for implementing, monitoring, and reporting on the SDGs. The event was held under the theme "Amplifying the Voices and Actions for SDGs and Committing to Inclusive and Sustainable Transformation for Shared Prosperity."

During the first day of the consultation on September 6, 2023, government officials, civil society organizations, and experts from various sectors including the United Nations, collaborated to develop an SDGs Acceleration Roadmap. This roadmap outlines a series of commitments aimed at achieving specific goals over the next seven years, to be presented at the SDGs Summit.

During the opening ceremony, the UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Christine Umutoni expressed her delight in the progress Liberia has made on the SDGs but more needs to be done.

 “I am happy to note that Liberia has already conducted discussions at different levels and assessed the country’s status regarding progress on SDGs. The country has presented two Voluntary National Reviews, outlining its current progress and challenges in the achievement of the national SDGs, as part of accountability measures to assess progress made in implementing the SDGs.  Liberia has made modest progress, which has improved its position in the global 2023 SDG Index. However, there is Liberia like many countries has a lot to do, it ranks 157 out of 166 on the percentage of SDGs achieved”, she said.

She also implored on government and partners to ensure inclusive development and leave no one behind, focusing on the youth, ensuring gender equality and women empowerment, adolescent well-being, and inclusion of with disabilities and special needs.

Speaking on behalf of the government, Mr. Augustus J. Flomo, Deputy Minister for Economic Management, at the Ministry of Finance, (MFDP), admitted that indeed the government is facing challenges in implementing the SDGs but it remains committed to accelerate towards their attainment.

“We all have a responsibility to ensure we attain the Sustainable Development Goals, as a country we need to work towards the acceleration of the SDGs- it is important for the growth and development of our country. We have a responsibility to uphold this commitment and begin to work towards achievement of our objectives. This forum provides a consultative forum for consultation so that we get back on track as we prepare for the SDG summit”, said Honorable Flomo.

Discussions during the consultation, facilitated by technical experts from the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning and supported by the United Nations in Liberia, focused on key areas such as planning, data collection, resource mobilization, peace and development, investments, food security, institutional strengthening, and finances.

On the final day of the symposium on September 8, 2023, participants were divided into groups. One session revolved around providing feedback on the draft roadmap document, where participants discussed crucial interventions and requirements. The second session focused recommendations for key focus areas of the SDGs Acceleration and Transformation plan.

Emphasis was made on the need to ensure effective, accountable, and transparent institutions, as well as scaling up efforts to accelerate SDGs progress, including financial mobilization and partnerships. Meanwhile, group two centered its discussion on accelerating social protection systems, financial frameworks, and strategic partnerships to achieve the SDGs in Liberia.

In conclusion, it was recommended that Liberia should prioritize digital transformation, invest in lifelong learning for essential services, and promote peace. Additionally, consideration should be made on accelerating access to energy for all, transitioning to renewable energy sources, ensuring food security, enhancing water and sanitation systems, protecting biodiversity, and mitigating vulnerabilities.

During the closure, Mr. Louis Kuukpen, Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP, commended Liberia for the intensive two-day validation process, expressing optimism that Liberia would present a compelling case during the UN summit in New York, attracting development opportunities for the country. Minister Augusta Flomo appreciated the participation of all stakeholders, especially development partners, and expressed Liberia's readiness to achieve more through the SDGs.

“We are committed to support Liberia, we all have identified our weakness and strength with strategic recommendation on how Liberia can push towards achievement of the SDG” he elaborated. 

The national consultation is a precursor to the SDGs Summit, to be held in New York, September 18-19, 2023. This year, 2023, marks the mid-point of the SDGs, with calls for a strong recommitment and acceleration to achieve the Goals.