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19 July 2024
President Boakai formally launches processes leading to crafting of ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development
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11 July 2024
UN in Liberia foster Partnership with Vice President's offices on Strategic Development Priorities
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10 July 2024
Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team attend Quarterly Meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs
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The Sustainable Development Goals 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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07 March 2024
UNFPA Donates Essential Medical Equipment to Enhance Maternal and Child Health in Liberia
The Ministry of Health received medical instruments and equipment from the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to support the ministry’s efforts in improving maternal and child health across the nation.Presenting the donation, Madam Bidisha Pillai, the Country Representative of UNFPA to Liberia, conveyed gratitude to the Ministry of Health for its commitment to providing quality reproductive health services and facilities to women and girls in Liberia and underscored UNFPA's dedication to reducing unplanned and unwanted pregnancies and ensuring safe delivery services.Madam Pillai highlighted the organization's (UNFPA) active involvement in capacity-building initiatives and the provision of essential medical supplies, including HIV testing kits and life-saving drugs. With an average investment of approximately 1.2 million dollars, UNFPA has significantly contributed to these efforts.The UNFPA Country Representative to Liberia emphasized the critical importance of reliable contraception supplies in facilitating access to reproductive healthcare, stressing that achieving sustainable development goals hinges on such access. She noted the significance of the ceremony coinciding with the celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8th, which highlights access to reproductive healthcare as a fundamental human right for all women and girls.In response, Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, Minister of Health, spoke on behalf of the President and the Liberian people, expressing gratitude to UNFPA for their ongoing support.The Minister appreciated UNFPA's contribution in procuring and donating essential medical supplies. She emphasized that the donated supplies will be distributed across several counties, including Rivercess, Grand Gedeh, Grand Kru, River Gee, Sinoe, and Maryland.Reflecting on challenges faced in the operating theater due to inadequate lighting, shortage of beds, and unequipped intensive care unit, Dr. Kpoto emphasized the importance of the donated items in addressing such issues to help ease operations and decrease maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Liberia.She assured the UNFPA Country Representative of accountability and affirmed that the donated items would be appropriately used and placed in the designated facilities across various counties.Following the receipt and signing of the handover document by both UNFPA and the Ministry of Health, Michael Nguessan, CMS/WFP Manager, led a tour of the Central Medical Store (CMS), accompanied by the Minister of Health, Dr. Kpoto, the Director of Family Health (MOH), Dr. Nowiah Gorpudolo-Dennis, and Madam Bidisha Pillai, the Country Representative of UNFPA to Liberia, and their respective teams.
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11 March 2024
Liberia celebrates International Women’s Day amid calls to invest in women and strengthen gender-responsive budgeting
A cross section of women and men in Liberia thronged the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex to commemorate International Women’s Day (IWD), a day set aside to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women everywhere and to strategise on how to break down the barriers to achieving equality for all women. This year’s commemoration was held under the global theme ‘Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,' and the national theme ‘Empower Her, Empower All.' The themes emphasized the need to drive financial resources, policy support, and commitments towards achieving gender equality and are aligned with the priority theme of the 68th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW68), to be held in New York from 11 to 22 March 2024: ‘Accelerating the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls by addressing poverty and strengthening institutions and financing with a gender perspective. Members of the United Nations Country team led by the Resident Coordinator, Christine Umutoni, members of the Diplomatic Community, representatives from Government ministries, women’s organisations, civil society among others, attended the celebrations, characterized by speeches, entertainment and a market exhibition. In her welcome address, the Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Honourable Gbeme Horace-Kollie stressed the transformative power of investing in women, emphasizing that it not only enhances their decision-making abilities but also boosts their confidence and access to opportunities.The theme colour for the commemoration was white, symbolizing peace, unity, and reconciliation. It served as a poignant reminder of the invaluable role women play in maintaining peace within their communities and the nation at large.The keynote speaker, the First Lady of Liberia, Kartumu Yarta Boakai pledged Government support for women’s empowerment initiatives including promoting education, health and leadership roles as well as encouraging that both men and women ‘walk side by side’ for the development of the country. She urged Liberians to unite in relentless determination for sustainable development and the advancement of gender equality and women's empowerment.Ms. Umutoni delivered an International Women’s Day statement from the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres,’ stressing the importance of supporting women’s organizations, investing in programs to end violence against women, and promoting women’s inclusion and leadership in various sectors such as economies, digital technologies, peacebuilding, and climate action.Echoing the sentiments, Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative, emphasized three critical areas essential for addressing poverty-related issues and advancing gender equality: gender-responsive budgeting and planning, investment in women’s rights organizations, and the importance of gender-disaggregated data collection. Honourable Moima Briggs-Mensah from the Women’s Legislative Caucus and Honourable Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, the Pro-temp of the Liberian Senate reiterated the need to have gender responsive budgets.Representatives of traditional practitioners, rural women, and youth groups emphasized the importance of equal participation, keeping girls in school, and providing empowerment opportunities, particularly for rural women. They stressed the urgent need to invest in women and strengthen gender-responsive budgeting as crucial steps towards achieving gender equality.As part of the celebrations, the Second Lady of Liberia, Stephenie Dahn Koung, honored three women in public service for their dedication and commitment to serving their communities.The Ministry of Gender, Children and Social Protection hosted the International Women’s Day celebrations with support from the United Nations in Liberia and partners.
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04 April 2024
UN Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) launch Projects to support National Efforts on Peace and Development
The UN Resident Coordinator, Christine Umutoni, has formally launched the UN Secretary General’s Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) projects - designed and programmed under Liberia’s Five Years (2022-2027) PBF Strategic Results Framework covering four projects. The launch occurred today, at the Kofi Annan Conference Hall, One UN House. The initial investment targets land management through conflict prevention; fostering social accountability and transparency in governance and public service and empowerment of disadvantaged youth. The formal launch will also consider PBF 2023 approved Youth Promotion Initiative (YPI) project which was attained through a global competitive call.Between 26-31 March 2023, the Peacebuilding Support Office (PBSO) fielded a mission that engaged partners (UN agencies, donors, government, CSOs/NGOs) in Monrovia to examine implementation of existing PBF projects. These consultations informed the mission’s support through workshops to design the PBF SRF project package as well as strengthen implementation for results for ongoing projects. The partners participated and helped to direct stakeholder design in line with PBF project quality criteria. The mission also held an informal preparatory session with UN agencies and CSOs ahead of the YPI 2023 Call for proposals, which led to Liberia qualifying to receive $2 million youth project listed for the formal launch. Projects for this launch include: Enhancing peace and social cohesion through the promotion of equitable access to and use of land for rural women in conflict-prone communities and concession areas - Nov 2023 to Nov 2026 ; Enhancing Social Cohesion through Rehabilitation and Empowerment of Marginalized Youth in Liberia (At Risk Youth) Sept 2023 -Sept 2026 ; Empowering Citizens and Community to foster social accountability and transparency in governance and public service - Oct 2023- Oct 2026 and the Accelerating Digital Opportunities for Youth Civic Participation as a lever for Building and Sustaining Peace in Liberia (YPI) Jan 2024- Jan 2026. The UN Resident Coordinator, at the event, called on partners to work with synergy and joint approaches. She stated, "when we work with joint approaches, we can see maximum impact for our beneficiaries".
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14 May 2024
United Against Polio: Nationwide Polio Vaccination Campaign Kicks Off in Liberia
The Ministry of Health in collaboration with partners has commenced a four-day nationwide polio campaign, which begins on May 10, 2024, with the aim of responding to an outbreak of the circulating vaccine derived polio virus type 2. This crucial campaign is conducted concurrently with Sierra Leone, Mali, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Ivory Coast. The cross-border initiative aims to immunize all eligible children, including those crossing national boundaries.The campaign's primary objective is to protect the health of children under the age of 5 years by ensuring 859,091 children are vaccinated. The administration of the nOPV2 polio vaccine is pivotal in halting the spread of the polio virus circulation.Over 1,700 dedicated health workers will drive the campaign, employing a multifaceted approach. These professionals will work closely with communities, spreading vital information about the importance of immunization, and administering vaccines from house to house. Vaccines will also be administered at health facilities in various locations.“Today, we stand united with our neighboring countries in West Africa as we embark on a synchronized polio immunization campaign. We believe this collective effort will bolster the protection of our children,” said Dr. Catherine Cooper, Liberia's Chief Medical Officer. “The Government of Liberia is committed to supporting international efforts aimed at eradicating polio from our world. We urge our health workers to leave no child unvaccinated during their rounds. We also call upon our parents and communities to lend their full support. Our ultimate goal is to ensure the safety of our country.”In solidarity with Liberia’s efforts, representatives from UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) continue to offer their support throughout the campaign.“Today marks a significant step forward in our collective fight against polio, “said Andy Brooks, UNICEF Representative in Liberia. “I am deeply moved by the dedication and commitment shown by everyone involved in this nationwide campaign. Our goal is clear - to ensure that every child under the age of five is vaccinated and protected from this debilitating disease. We believe that every child, no matter where they live, has the right to a healthy future. This campaign is not just about administering vaccines; it’s about safeguarding the future of Liberia’s children. Together, we can kick Polio out of Liberia.”Echoing this sentiment, the WHO Representative in Liberia, Dr. Clement Peter, stated “Vaccination is a cornerstone of public health, and through collective action, we can overcome polio. The success of this campaign hinges on community engagement and awareness. Together, we can empower parents and caregivers to make informed decisions about their children's health as we propel towards a polio-free Liberia”.Reflecting on Liberia's commitment to public health, Minister of Health, Dr. Louise M. Kpoto, urged parents and caregivers to prioritize their children's vaccination. "We implore all parents and guardians to avail themselves of this opportunity to safeguard the health and future of our children. Together, we can eliminate the threat of polio and build a healthier, more resilient Liberia."This campaign marks a significant milestone in Liberia's ongoing efforts to protect its citizens from Vaccine Preventable Diseases, thanks to the unwavering support of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative, GAVI- The Vaccine Alliance, Rotary International and partners.
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21 May 2024
FAO and Liberia’s Agriculture Ministry Visit Farms in Lofa County to Advance Food Security
Over the weekend, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Liberia, represented by Bintia Stephen Tchicaya, and Liberia’s Minister of Agriculture, J. Alexander Nuetah, undertook a visit to various farms in Lofa County. The goal was to assess the strides made by farmers in advancing Liberia’s journey towards food security.This visit came on the heels of a significant milestone, where Tchicaya and Minister Nutah concluded a two-day event in Gbarnga, Bong County, to validate the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP), a pivotal step for Liberia’s agricultural development and food security.Invited by the Ministry of Agriculture, FAO Representative Tchicaya seized the opportunity to spotlight one of the institution’s many initiatives supporting agricultural cooperatives in Foya, Lofa County.Accompanied by their respective delegations, Tchicaya and Minister Nutah visited the Mayor River Women Initiative, a female-dominated farmer cooperative established in 2017 and led by Madam Tewa Blama.The FAO has played a crucial role in supporting this cooperative through the UAE-funded project titled: “Promoting Increased Resilience and Sustainable Income Generation, Food Security and Nutrition for Rural Women (GCP/LIR/028/UAE).” This project provided invaluable assistance, including improved rice seeds and essential inputs such as power tillers, mini rice harvesters, and more. Additionally, capacity-building efforts included training in improved crop husbandry practices and business management skills. In February 2023, a representative from the Mayor River Women Initiative participated in a week-long farmer exchange visit to the Center Songhai in the Republic of Benin, gaining valuable insights shared during the exchange.Expressing gratitude to the farmers, Agriculture Minister Nuetah acknowledged the significant contribution of the Mayor River Women Initiative to Liberia’s agricultural sector. He assured them of the Ministry’s active efforts in addressing the challenges faced by farmers in the county.In a pledge of continued support, FAO Representative Tchicaya commended the initiative of the Mayor River Women Initiative, emphasizing its crucial role in combating food insecurity in Liberia and promoting sustainable food production.“We are here today to express our appreciation for the outstanding work you do for the people of Liberia. Your contributions as a farming group are commendable, and FAO highly recognizes this. Our support will remain steadfast as we collaborate towards achieving food security in Liberia,” added FAO Representative Bintia Tchicaya.
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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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11 July 2024
UN in Liberia foster Partnership with Vice President's offices on Strategic Development Priorities
Liberia's Vice President, Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, met with the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, to outline key priorities under his office and request UN support for their implementation.VP Koung identified Disability Rights and Inclusion, Nutrition and Food Security (Scaling Up Nutrition Movement), and Youth Empowerment (At-Risk Youth) as critical areas requiring enhanced collaboration between his office and the UN.The UNCT delegation, led by Resident Coordinator Ms. Christine N. Umutoni, convened a working meeting with H. E Vice President Koung to discuss strategic priorities and opportunities for strengthened partnership.Vice President Koung expressed gratitude for the UN's consistent support of Liberia's ARREST agenda.Ms. Umutoni discussed the pivotal role of Liberia's National Development Plan within the UN Cooperation framework with Liberia, set to conclude by 2025."We are focused on key pillars including Human Development, Sustainable Economic Development, Peace and Security, Governance, and Transparency," Ms. Umutoni stated, affirming UN support for Liberia's development goals. Representatives from WHO, UNESCO, UNICEF, OHCHR, UN Women, UNDP, WFP, UNFPA and other members of the UN Liberia Team attended the consultative meeting, reinforcing their commitment to Liberia's progress.
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10 July 2024
Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team attend Quarterly Meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs
UN Resident Coordinator in Liberia, Ms. Christine N. Umutoni, and Heads of UN Agencies met with H.E. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Liberia, to discuss key priorities and opportunities to strengthen the partnership between the Government of Liberia and the United Nations.This meeting was part of quarterly consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations Country Team (UNCT).The agenda included discussions on the upcoming UN Summit of the Future, UN support for establishing the Office of War and Economic Crimes Court, UN assistance with government diaspora engagement, and recommendations for next steps.Also in attendance from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were Cllr. Deweh Gray, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, and Madam Saran Kaba Jones, Assistant Minister and Chief of Staff to the Minister.
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09 July 2024
Resident Coordinator Umutoni commends Vice President Koung on Keen Interest in Improving Maternal Mortality Rates in Liberia
As part of the activities marking this year’s official observance of World Population Day, the United Nations office in Liberia Monday, July 8, 2024, engaged the office of the Vice President of the Republic of Liberia.The engagement was aimed at raising awareness about Liberia’s population issues, including demographic trends, family planning, reproductive health, and sustainable development goals.During the engagement, UN Resident Coordinator to Liberia disclosed among other things that an estimated three women die every day due to preventable birth-related complications in Liberia.Madam Christine N. Umutoni furthered: “The SDGs set out a target to reduce global maternal mortality to 70 deaths for every 100,000 live births. The SDGs set out a target to reduce global maternal mortality to 70 deaths for every 100,000 live births. In Liberia, despite progress, the maternal mortality rate is 742 deaths for every 100,000 live births. At the current rate, Liberia and many other countries in similar situations are not on track to achieve the SDG targets.”Madam Umutoni further said UNFPA in Liberia has therefore identified the need to accelerate actions if the country is to get on track to meeting the SDG targets and the goal for zero preventable maternal deaths.According to the UN Resident Coordinator, strategic partnership is one of the accelerators UNFPA has identified to speed up progress.“This dialogue and engagement with the Vice President's Office can materialize important benefits in terms of the legal, resource, and policy commitments and direction at various levels that are needed for women and girls, men and boys to fully realize their sexual reproductive health and rights free from violence, discrimination, and the problem of limited access to affordable and comprehensive services,” Madam Umutoni said.Accordingly, Liberia’s Vice President Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung in remarks lauded UNFPA and other development partners for their continuous support to Liberia but termed the current rate of maternal mortality in Liberia as alarming, stressing the urgent need for action to combat challenges facing the country’s population.VP Koung who is expected to deliver the keynote address on the official day marking World Population emphasized the need for the UN and other development partners to focus more on training and creating awareness as a means of combating challenges facing the population.Referencing the data as presented in the detailed report by UNFPA, the Liberian Vice President said the production of available and accessible data is of critical national importance which he noted is in line with the ARREST agenda of the UP-led government.World Population Day is celebrated July 11 every year to among other things promote access to reproductive health services, family planning information, and contraceptives to empower individuals and families to make informed choices about their reproductive lives.
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12 June 2024
UN Staff in Liberia, along with Monrovia City Corporation and partners, commemorate World Environment Day & World Oceans Day
Today, in commemoration of World Environment Day (June 5) and World Ocean Day (June 8), United Nations staff members, in collaboration with the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) and the Environment Protection Authority (EPA), participated in a clean-up campaign. The event was led by the UN Resident Coordinator, Ms. Christine Umutoni, in the backyard of the UN House, which is also a beach site. The themes for this year— “Our Land, Our Future” for World Environment Day and “Action for Ocean and Climate” for World Ocean Day—highlight the urgent need for environmental conservation and climate action. This initiative is part of ongoing global efforts to protect and restore natural habitats, emphasizing the importance of maintaining clean and healthy environments for future generations. The clean-up campaign not only aimed to remove litter and debris from the beach but also to raise awareness about the critical issues facing our environment and oceans. By working together, the UN, MCC, and EPA demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices and community engagement in environmental stewardship. Giving her remarks at the clean-up campaign, Ms. Umutoni delivered the UN Secretary General’s message for world ocean day highlighting that “Now is the time for governments, businesses, investors, scientists and communities to come together in defense of our ocean”. About the environment, she noted that the message of the UN Secretary General is that” Countries must deliver on all their commitments to restore degraded ecosystems and land…”. Ms. Umutoni emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing environmental challenges, urging individuals and organizations to contribute to the protection of the planet. The event was a reminder of the significant impact that dedicated efforts can have on improving the health of our land and oceans.
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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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Press Release
02 February 2024
Liberia joins global community to commemorate the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM)
On 06 February 2024, Liberia will join the global community to observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), under the theme: ‘Her voice. Her future. Investing in Survivor-Led Movements to End Female Genital Mutilation.’ The theme calls for increasing survivors’ space for voicing out against the practice to protect girls at risk of being subjected to FGM.
Globally, more than 200 million girls and women have undergone FGM, a practice that involves the removal or injury of external female genital organs for non-medical reasons. It is a violation of human rights, causing irreversible physical and psychological harm to millions of girls and women across various communities.
Important progress has been made in eliminating FGM globally and in Liberia. Exactly, a year ago, on 6 February 2023, the National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia (NACCEL), made a historic proclamation to ban the practice of FGM in Liberia. Since then, traditional ceremonies to effectively enforce the ban on FGM have been conducted in four out of 11 FGM practicing counties in Liberia, namely Montserrado, Grand Cape Mount, Nimba and Bong counties.
Liberia also signalled its commitment to ending FGM during the global convening of world leaders and women’s rights activists at the Generation Equality Forum in Paris in 2021, where Liberia pledged to pursue efforts to end Gender Based Violence and became a signatory to the collective commitment on eradicating harmful practices, including FGM.
This year’s commemoration of the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM will be held at the Vezela Vocational and Heritage Centre in Lofa County. Several activities are lined up to mark the anti-FGM Day including, traditional ceremonies to close bush schools and enforce the ban on FGM by NACCEL with technical support from the Liberia Crusaders For Peace and the official handover of the Vezela Heritage Centre to the Government of Liberia. Lofa is set to be the fifth county to conduct traditional ceremonies to ban FGM and close bush schools in the country.
The Vezela centre is one of the four vocational and heritage centres established by UN Women with funding from the European Union and the United Nations through the Spotlight Initiative to eliminate violence against women, harmful practices and promote sexual and reproductive health and rights. Vocational and heritage centers provide dedicated learning space to teach former FGM traditional practitioners new skills to enable them to pursue alternative sources of income to replace FGM. Other heritage centres are located in Grand Cape Mount, Montserrado and Nimba counties.
To date, over 800 former traditional practitioners of FGM are benefitting from alternative economic livelihood programs such as climate smart agriculture, business and vocational skills training with support from the European Union, United Nations and Government of Liberia Spotlight Initiative. As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, UN Women commends the traditional leaders and communities for their unwavering commitment to ending FGM in Liberia and embracing the concept of ‘initiation without mutilation’ which upholds positive cultural practices as part of the rites of passage of young girls, whilst eliminating FGM. “Although progress has been made in eliminating FGM, Liberia is one of only three counties in the region yet to outlaw FGM,” says Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative. “We call on all stakeholders to continue ensuring collective commitment to ending this harmful practice and ensuring the fundamental rights and dignity of women and girls are realised. We call on lawmakers to ensure that the FGM Bill that is currently before the legislature is passed into law.” UN Women is supporting the Government of Liberia and NACCEL to commemorate FGM Day and to conduct bush school closure events with funding from the Government of Sweden. For more information please contact: Gloriah Ganyani UN Women Communication Specialist E-mail - gloria.ganyani@unwomen.org Tel: +231 776866201 Or John Monibah UN Women Communications Officer E-mail – john.monibah@unwomen.org Tel : +231 776737521 #ENDS#
To date, over 800 former traditional practitioners of FGM are benefitting from alternative economic livelihood programs such as climate smart agriculture, business and vocational skills training with support from the European Union, United Nations and Government of Liberia Spotlight Initiative. As we observe the International Day of Zero Tolerance for FGM, UN Women commends the traditional leaders and communities for their unwavering commitment to ending FGM in Liberia and embracing the concept of ‘initiation without mutilation’ which upholds positive cultural practices as part of the rites of passage of young girls, whilst eliminating FGM. “Although progress has been made in eliminating FGM, Liberia is one of only three counties in the region yet to outlaw FGM,” says Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative. “We call on all stakeholders to continue ensuring collective commitment to ending this harmful practice and ensuring the fundamental rights and dignity of women and girls are realised. We call on lawmakers to ensure that the FGM Bill that is currently before the legislature is passed into law.” UN Women is supporting the Government of Liberia and NACCEL to commemorate FGM Day and to conduct bush school closure events with funding from the Government of Sweden. For more information please contact: Gloriah Ganyani UN Women Communication Specialist E-mail - gloria.ganyani@unwomen.org Tel: +231 776866201 Or John Monibah UN Women Communications Officer E-mail – john.monibah@unwomen.org Tel : +231 776737521 #ENDS#
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Press Release
18 November 2023
Congratulatory Message from the International Community in Liberia on Peaceful Elections
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Press Release
16 November 2023
SRSG Simão Welcomes the Conclusion Of The Peaceful Run-Off Presidential Election, Calls On Liberians To Follow Existing Legal Channels to Resolve Any Electoral Disputes That May Arise
Dakar, 15 November 2023 - 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 three-day visit to Liberia to support peaceful second round voting.
The Special Representative welcomes the generally peaceful and orderly conduct of yesterday’s run-off presidential election. Once again, Liberians have demonstrated their commitment to peace and democracy by turning out to peacefully cast their ballots.
The Special Representative commends the candidates for guiding their supporters to peaceful and inclusive elections in the spirit of and continued adherance to the Farmington River Declaration. He further congratulates the National Election Commission (NEC) on the conduct of this historic Presidential runoff of 14 November.
The Special Representative reiterates his call to the candidates and their supporters to respect the official results once announced by the National Election Commission (NEC) and to follow existing legal channels to resolve any electoral disputes that may arise.
Peace and stability are an asset Liberia held on to for 20 years and the peaceful conclusion of the elections will consolidate these gains. The Special Representative calls on all Liberians, their leaders, and institutions to seize this opportunity to strengthen development, and democracy.
UNOWAS, in coordination with its regional and international partners, remains committed to supporting Liberia on its path to a peaceful, prosperous, and democratic future.
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COMMUNIQUÉ DE PRESSE
Le Représentant Spécial Simão Salue La Conclusion Pacifique Du Second Tour De L'élection Présidentielle Et Appelle Les Libériens A Suivre Les Voies Légales Existantes Pour Résoudre Les Différends Electoraux Qui Pourraient Survenir Dakar, 15 novembre 2023 - 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 trois jours au Libéria pour soutenir le déroulement pacifique du second tour de l'élection présidentielle. Le Représentant spécial salue le déroulement pacifique et ordonné du second tour de l'élection présidentielle d'hier. Une fois de plus, les Libériens ont démontré leur attachement à la paix et à la démocratie en se rendant aux urnes dans le calme. Le représentant spécial félicite les candidats d'avoir sensibilisé leurs partisans pour des élections pacifiques et inclusives, dans l'esprit de la déclaration de Farmington River, à laquelle ils continuent d'adhérer. Il félicite également la Commission Électorale Nationale (NEC) pour la conduite historique de ce second tour de l'élection présidentielle du 14 novembre. Le Représentant spécial réitère son appel aux candidats et à leurs partisans pour qu'ils respectent les résultats officiels quand ils seront annoncés par la Commission électorale nationale (NEC) et qu'ils suivent les voies légales existantes pour résoudre tout litige électoral qui pourrait survenir. La paix et la stabilité sont des atouts que le Liberia a conservés pendant 20 ans et la conclusion pacifique de ces élections consolidera ces acquis. Le Représentant spécial appelle tous les Libériens, leurs dirigeants et les institutions à saisir cette occasion pour renforcer davantage le développement et la démocratie. UNOWAS, en coordination avec ses partenaires régionaux et internationaux, reste déterminé à soutenir le Libéria sur la voie d'un avenir pacifique, prospère et démocratique. ### Bureau de la Communication Stratégique et de l’Information Publique / Strategic Communications and Public Information Office Kouider Zerrouk, Chef de bureau / SCPIO Chief – (+221) 33 869 85 60 / 77 332 49 28 – zerrouk@un.org Angelita Mendy Diop, Chargée de communication / Public Information Officer– (+221) 33 869 85 47 / 76 721 78 92 – mendya@un.org Alpha 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_UNOWAS Ngor, route de la plage – PO Box 23 851, Dakar Ponty (Sénégal)
Le Représentant Spécial Simão Salue La Conclusion Pacifique Du Second Tour De L'élection Présidentielle Et Appelle Les Libériens A Suivre Les Voies Légales Existantes Pour Résoudre Les Différends Electoraux Qui Pourraient Survenir Dakar, 15 novembre 2023 - 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 trois jours au Libéria pour soutenir le déroulement pacifique du second tour de l'élection présidentielle. Le Représentant spécial salue le déroulement pacifique et ordonné du second tour de l'élection présidentielle d'hier. Une fois de plus, les Libériens ont démontré leur attachement à la paix et à la démocratie en se rendant aux urnes dans le calme. Le représentant spécial félicite les candidats d'avoir sensibilisé leurs partisans pour des élections pacifiques et inclusives, dans l'esprit de la déclaration de Farmington River, à laquelle ils continuent d'adhérer. Il félicite également la Commission Électorale Nationale (NEC) pour la conduite historique de ce second tour de l'élection présidentielle du 14 novembre. Le Représentant spécial réitère son appel aux candidats et à leurs partisans pour qu'ils respectent les résultats officiels quand ils seront annoncés par la Commission électorale nationale (NEC) et qu'ils suivent les voies légales existantes pour résoudre tout litige électoral qui pourrait survenir. La paix et la stabilité sont des atouts que le Liberia a conservés pendant 20 ans et la conclusion pacifique de ces élections consolidera ces acquis. Le Représentant spécial appelle tous les Libériens, leurs dirigeants et les institutions à saisir cette occasion pour renforcer davantage le développement et la démocratie. UNOWAS, en coordination avec ses partenaires régionaux et internationaux, reste déterminé à soutenir le Libéria sur la voie d'un avenir pacifique, prospère et démocratique. ### Bureau de la Communication Stratégique et de l’Information Publique / Strategic Communications and Public Information Office Kouider Zerrouk, Chef de bureau / SCPIO Chief – (+221) 33 869 85 60 / 77 332 49 28 – zerrouk@un.org Angelita Mendy Diop, Chargée de communication / Public Information Officer– (+221) 33 869 85 47 / 76 721 78 92 – mendya@un.org Alpha 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_UNOWAS Ngor, route de la plage – PO Box 23 851, Dakar Ponty (Sénégal)
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Press Release
14 October 2023
Joint Statement by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) on the post-electoral phase in Liberia
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) in Liberia welcome the gradual announcement of polling results from the National Elections Commission (NEC) and largely positive preliminary reports from observers on the conduct of the elections.
ECOWAS and the UN note with grave concern the heightened tensions following a largely peaceful voting process. The dissemination of misinformation and dis-information, allegations and counter allegations, including actions that, if not contained, could undermine the integrity of the electoral process, have largely contributed to this tension.
The consolidation of Liberia’s peace is a collective responsibility of Liberians at home and abroad and, ECOWAS and the UN, therefore, call on all Liberians to desist from acts that threaten Liberia’s peace. In this regard, we urge Liberians to take a firm stand against violence and refrain from spreading unfounded information that may incite violence.
ECOWAS and the UN call especially on the leaders of political parties to demonstrate, in word and deed, their commitment to peace and the revised Farmington River Declaration. We remind all parties that the joint security is the only lawfully mandated security force to provide security to national installations including the tally centres across the country. Therefore, political parties are urged to desist from assuming the roles of security or law enforcement agencies.
ECOWAS and the UN urge all political parties to exercise calm and restraint as the tallying of votes by the NEC progresses and is concluded.
We underscore the importance of NEC and the security agencies to professionally discharge their duties with utmost respect for the rule of law.
ECOWAS and the UN urge all parties to resolve any grievances peacefully through the appropriate legal means in accordance with national laws.
Finally, ECOWAS and the UN remind all political leaders of their responsibility to safeguard Liberia’s hard-won peace which is vital for the country’s stability and democratic consolidation.
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