Liberia Marks UN@80 with Pride and Purpose in Kakata

 The grounds of Booker Washington Institute (BWI) came alive on October 24, 2025, as Liberia joined the global community in celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations. The event, held under the national theme “One Liberia, One UN, One Future: 80 Years of Partnership and Progress,” was a powerful reflection of Liberia’s enduring commitment to peace, development, and human rights.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai led the official celebration, describing the occasion as a moment of national pride and a reaffirmation of Liberia’s foundational role in the UN. “As one of the 51 founding members of the United Nations, Liberia celebrates with joy the UN’s accomplishments and our shared journey toward global peace and cooperation,” he declared.

The President emphasized Liberia’s readiness to take on a more prominent role on the world stage, particularly as it prepares for a seat on the UN Security Council in 2026. He pledged continued investment in education, healthcare, climate action, and economic transformation—pillars of the government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

A Tribute to Peace and Progress

The celebration was not only ceremonial but deeply symbolic. It reunited members of the Women of Liberia Mass Action for Peace, whose activism helped end the civil war in 2003. Dapo M. Daka, one of the movement’s pioneers, emotionally recalled the UN’s support during their peaceful protests. “We can’t pay the UN back for all they did for Liberia,” she said.

UN Resident Coordinator Christine N. Umutoni echoed this sentiment, praising Liberia’s transformation “from the shadows of conflict to the light of peace.” She highlighted the resilience of Liberian communities—especially women—as the backbone of national recovery.

Launching a New Chapter: UNCF 2026–2030

A key highlight of the day was the soft launch of the United Nations Cooperation Framework (UNCF) 2026–2030. This strategic plan aligns with Liberia’s national development priorities and focuses on four pillars: human capital development, good governance, economic transformation, and climate action.

UNICEF Country Representative Andy Brooks outlined flagship programs under the framework, including:

• EduSkills: Supporting the “Back to My Classroom” initiative.
• Girls Empowerment: Tackling school dropout, teenage pregnancy, and gender-based violence.
• Governance & Digitization: Promoting transparency and access to justice.
• She Feeds Liberia: Advancing climate-smart agriculture and women’s empowerment.

A Celebration Rooted in Youth and Unity

European Union Ambassador Nona Deprez lauded the choice of BWI as the venue, calling it a symbol of self-development and youth empowerment. “Bringing the celebration to Liberia’s youth is a powerful reminder that they are the future of global peace and development,” she said.

The event concluded with cultural performances, presentation of certificates to youth ambassadors rehabilitated from drug abuse, and a dedication of plaque from the UNCT to Government in recognition of Liberia’s ascension as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council; as well as a art work from the local authorities to the United Nations.

President Boakai closed with a resounding message: “Together, we will build a future of stability, prosperity, and sustainable growth for all.”