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28 November 2023
Liberia launches 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign
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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
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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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24 July 2023
Liberian Farmers Receive Farming Equipment through the Accelerated Community Development Programme
UNDP, with support from the Liberian government, has donated equipment, basic farming tools and post-harvest processing machines to farmers in three of the 15 counties. The equipment aims to help enhance their labor capacity in making use of large-scale and a more mechanized approach to farming as compared to subsistence farming, which is more labor-intensive and time-consuming. The beneficiary counties include Bong, Rivercess, and Gbarpolu.
The equipment included14 tractors and trailer, over 18,000 pieces of assorted basic farming tools, including rice, cassava, sugar cane milling machines, thirty-four sets of post-harvest processing machines, and a rice thresher were also turned over to the beneficiary communities at a ceremony on Thursday, July 21.
“The tools and equipment, valued at over US$600,000, will add value and help expand the agricultural base of each of the communities, thereby addressing the ultimate challenge of food insecurity,” UNDP Liberia Resident Representative, Louis Kuukpen said at the event. “They will be distributed to identified cooperatives and individual farmers in beneficiary communities in the targeted counties.”
The Liberian agricultural sector, like many other African countries, is still faced with huge challenges, key among these being low productivity due to lack of innovation. Many African farmers are still engaged in subsistence farming due to lack of access to modern farming equipment — a situation that is contributing to the acute food insecurity on the continent.
The farming equipment and tools are donated under the auspices of Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP) — an ambitious five-year initiative launched by President George Weah in November 2022 with a commitment of 100 million United States Dollars for the first three years, 2022-2025.
President Weah, who launched the programme last year at the UN Day celebrations, noted that the ACDP will have an immediate impact on reducing poverty while accelerating socio-economic development in rural communities.
The ACDP is also expected to accelerate the repair of 39 handpumps and construction of 14 new handpumps and additional 5 solar powered multipurpose boreholes in new communities.
The programme will also construct storage and processing facilities fully equipped with offices for agricultural cooperatives; construct 10 decent gender sensitive toilets, and procure additional basic farming tools.
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24 July 2023
Farmington Declaration- Independent Candidates Sign Agreement
Independent Aspirants for the 10 October 2023 General Elections Friday, July 21st 2023 signed the historic Farmington River Declaration committing themselves to ensure that the election is conducted free of violence. Political Parties have also signed the Farmington River Declaration.
The colorful program held at the Ministerial Complex in Congo Town was under the direct auspices of the National Elections Commission (NEC), in collaboration with the United Nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
The Chairperson of the National Elections Commission, Madam Davidetta Browne Lansanah spoke about the need for all aspirants to respect the Commission and all of its Regulations and Guidelines as provided for under the law.
UN Resident Coordinator Christine Umutoni, speaking at the occasion, called on Liberians to ensue elections are peaceful. She reminded Liberians of the past election cycles that were held under a peaceful atmosphere which got international acclaim and was used as examples for other countries to emulate.
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17 August 2023
THE SPECIAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE SECREATRY GENERAL FOR UNOWAS, MR LEONARDO SIMÃO CONCLUDES A THREE-DAY VISIT TO LIBERIA, CALLS FOR INCLUSIVE, PEACEFUL AND DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS
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. This visit was part of his regional familiarization tour, following his appointment as Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for West Africa and the Sahel.
The Special Representative was received in audience by H.E. Georges Weah, President of Liberia, and had meetings with Mr. Dee-Maxwell Saah Kemayah, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr. Frank Musah Dean, Minister of Justice, and members of the National Elections Commission. He also held discussions with Youth and Women organizations, members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the diplomatic corps, and the United Nations country team.
To all his interlocuters, Mr. Simão reiterated the commitment of UNOWAS and the United Nations Country team to strengthen their partnership with Liberia, and to continue working with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and other members of the international community, to support Liberia’s path towards lasting democracy, peace, and prosperity.
During his visit, the Special Representative also participated in the stakeholder forum that took place on 15 August in preparation of the upcoming presidential elections to be held in October 2023. He commended all stakeholders, and called on the presidential candidates to uphold their commitment for the implementation of the Farmington River Declaration which paves the way for an inclusive, peaceful, and democratic process. He stressed the responsibility of all stakeholders to educate their supporters to the rules of good conduct demonstrating their responsible leadership. The Special Representative encouraged all actors to harness the positive force of Liberian women and called on Liberian youth to continue playing a positive role as agents of peace.
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05 July 2023
UN in Liberia host beneficiaries of Jewel Starfish Foundation
Led by Christine Umutoni, UN Liberia Resident Coordinator, this was an extraordinary meeting of empowerment, resilience, determination and a shared vision of hope.
Formerly from West Point, a disadvantaged area in Monrovia, the youth were formerly considered at risk youth. Now they are shining students ready to forge a better life and be an example to others. Beneficiaries gave moving stories of inspiration and were urged to continue their strive for a better future.
The Resident Coordinator and UNCT urged the young women to consider themselves as victors and not victims in society. Stating that the" sky is no longer the limit", Ms Umutoni encouraged them to "go forth and shine the light for others".
RC Umutoni noted that, "it was a great pleasure to welcome young girls from the Foundation to the One UN House and presided to give them a tour of the agencies along with the UNCT.
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12 July 2023
UN Human Security Trust Fund Project impacts communities in North Central Liberia
The United Nations in Liberia is jointly implementing the United Nations Human Security Trust Fund Project “Building Resilience of Youth, Women and Vulnerable Groups using Social Protection Floor with ITC”. The project is being implemented by FAO, ILO, UNDP, UN Women and WFP, with support from the International Telecommunications Union(ITU), in three counties in Liberia-Bong, Lofa and Nimba.
In this light, a three-day Human Security Workshop on Digital technology with emphasis on establishment of Smart Villages, kicked off yesterday in Gbarnga, Bong County with participants in high spirit.
The workshop, which takes place from July 11-July 13, is expected to bring together 40 participants from local authorities, facilitators and beneficiaries from the communities. The workshop hopes to deepen the understanding of Smart Villages and digital technology and explore its role in the broader development context, particularly in agriculture, health, finance and market.
“At the beginning of this project, we did not even know what the SDGs were but thanks to this project, we now know about the 17 sustainable development goals and how they impact our lives.”, Ms Quinisier, Commissioner of Forquelleh, Bong County.
Another beneficiary expressed her appreciation for the impact of the project, “Thanks for giving our people the chance and means to cross the bridge of poverty and into prosperity”. She noted that in her community, forty-two women, youth and persons with disabilities, can now manage financially because of the support through training and start-up capital provided by the initiative through the Start and improve your Business (SIYB) initiative.
The UN Resident Coordinator, Christine Umutoni, in her remarks during interaction with beneficiaries, encouraged them to strive for entrepreneurship. She noted that “no one can make Liberia better, besides Liberians themselves”. She noted that entrepreneurial capacity of 264 vulnerable young women and men on how to start and improve their business have been built using the SIYB tools, 264 medium-size businesses have been established for inclusive economic and human development in six of the nine selected project communities and an awareness sessions conducted on the concept and importance of human security and how to mainstream the concept in county and national development agenda.
She also acknowledged the efforts of the government of Liberia and the UN agencies for the progress of the project that covered the wider consultations with national and international stakeholders (Government, Private Sector, CSOs and ITU) on the SMART Village Concept, the conduct of a digital assessment in all three project communities with the objective of identify digital gaps and the infrastructure requirements for the implementation of the Smart Village Initiative, field assessment at the district and community level to identify and assess the existing conditions of beneficiaries and community engagement workshop on SDGs-related issues and how to digitally address them for inclusivity has been conducted.
She also stated “the SMART Village concept is where the digital technology will be used to promote community-driven e-agriculture (particularly weather and extension services) including food system planning, implementation, and management - education and skills development, livelihood strategies such as income generation, cooperative administration, and health service including health insurance for women, youths, and the vulnerable population. Given the importance of access to markets and finance services in rural communities, these will be given priority in the digital endeavor to be co-created by you all working with private and public sector digital technology actors. “
The project will complement UNWOMEN Digital Platform – “Buy from Women” that connects smallholder farmers to information, finance, and markets – that is currently being developed.
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28 November 2023
Liberia launches 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence campaign
The United Nations family joined the Government and people of Liberia to launch the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, which kicked off on Saturday, 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and will run until 10 December, Human Rights Day. The launch event was held at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Complex in Paynesville.
This year’s 16 days of activism campaign is being held under the global theme, ‘Invest to prevent violence against women and girls,’ and the national theme ‘Empower Women, Secure Our Nation: Invest Locally to Prevent Violence against Women and Girls.’
Various stakeholders, including Government officials, members of the Diplomatic community, representatives of civil society organisations, members of the UN family and the media, among others, attended the event.
The Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection, Honourable Williametta Sayde-Tarr, delivered a special statement and highlighted that the 16 days of activism is a significant moment where the nation and the global community come together to amplify voices and reiterate commitments to eradicate violence against women, girls and the vulnerable in society. She reiterated that the theme underscores the importance of allocating resources and making commitments towards preventive measures. Hon. Saydee-Tarr expressed gratitude to partners working tirelessly to support her ministry to address issues gender-based violence.
Dr. Peter Clement, the Acting United Nations Resident Coordinator for Liberia, delivered the UN Secretary General’s message for the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. He highlighted that “Violence against women is a horrific violation of human rights, a public health crisis and a major obstacle to sustainable development.” He noted that this year’s theme calls on all stakeholders to take action to ‘Support legislation and comprehensive policies that strengthen the protection of women’s rights across the board; Ramp up investments in prevention and support to women’s rights organization; Listen to survivors and end impunity for perpetrators everywhere and stand with women activists and promote women’s leadership at every stage of decision-making.’
In his keynote address, Councillor Isaac George, Director of the Sex Crimes Unit in the Ministry of Justice, expressed appreciation to the Government of Liberia, the European Union and United Nations Spotlight Initiative and the Government of Sweden, among other partners, for the support to bring perpetrators to justice but acknowledged that violence against women and girls remains a challenge that still has to be eradicated. He called on the Government and partners to invest in the education and establishment of safe homes for women and girls in all 15 counties in Liberia.
Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Liberia Country Representative, launched this year’s edition of the 16 Days campaign. She explained that investments towards ending gender-based violence are not only monetary but include strengthening of all sectors. Ms. Lamptey highlighted that prevention is advanced when there are strong women’s rights organisations working to support government efforts to end gender-based violence. She emphasized the importance of investing in transforming social norms, stereotypes, persistent discrimination against women, male engagement and investment in interventions that underline joint efforts and collaboration.
Representatives of the Diplomatic community and civil society organisations gave their solidarity messages at the event, characterized by speeches and entertainment from the Crusaders of Peace led by traditional Queen Juli Endee.
The UN in Liberia is supporting the Government to roll out the 16 Days of Activism campaign.
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01 November 2023
Liberia records another significant milestone in eliminating female genital mutilation - as Nimba County practitioners turn over their ‘tools’
Liberia recorded another significant milestone in its fight against female genital mutilation (FGM) as former practitioners from Nimba County, in northern Liberia handed over traditional tools they used to perform FGM to signal an end to practice. The traditional ceremony took place on Friday, 27 October 2023, at the Gbanquoi Vocational and Heritage Centre constructed by UN Women under the auspicies of the European Union and United Nations Spotlight Initiative.
The ceremony marked a moment of transformation as former traditional practitioners, clad in white headgear and carrying containers draped in white cloths, surrendered their tools to Chief Zanzan Karwor, the Chairperson of the National Council of Chiefs and Elders of Liberia.
Various stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, the Embassy of Sweden, UN Women, UNDP, UNFPA, civil society organizations, local authorities from Nimba, and traditional practitioners from various counties across Liberia, witnessed the ceremony.
Nimba has become the fourth out of the eleven counties where FGM is practiced to conduct traditional rituals to effectively end the practice. Other traditional ceremonies to end FGM have to date been held in Montserrado, Grand Cape Mount, and Bong Counties. This achievement aligns with Chief Zanzan Karwor's landmark proclamation on 06 February 2023, to ban FGM throughout Liberia.
The ban entails putting an end to the harmful practice of cutting women and girls while upholding positive cultural practices, such as singing, dancing, and weaving, among others. This is now widely known as ‘initiation without mutilation.’
Chief Zanzan Karwor reaffirmed traditional leaders' commitment to abandon the FGM practice in Liberia, while Ambassador Juli Endee, Executive Director for Crusaders of Peace and cultural Queen of Liberia, emphasised that traditional leaders chose to end FGM voluntarily, driven by their belief in doing the right thing to accelerate development.
Ambassador Juli Endee expressed her deep appreciation to development partners for the support. She acknowledged the importance of reaching out to the ‘real people,’ the traditional leaders and the Zoes (traditional practitioners) to ensure the success of this transformative process.
Comfort Lamptey, UN Women Country Representative for Liberia, applauded Chief Zanzan Karwor for his leadership and commitment as well as embracing change, safeguarding the cultural passage rites of women and girls without the harmful effects of FGM.
She highlighted that Nimba County has one of the four vocational and heritage centres established with the support of the European Union and United Nations through the Spotlight Initiative. These centres aim to provide former traditional practitioners of FGM with alternative economic livelihood programs while preserving cultural heritage without FGM.
Nimba county authorities expressed their appreciation for the construction of heritage centres and urged former practitioners to utilize these centres for empowerment activities, ensuring they serve their intended purpose.
In addition, the Deputy Minister in the Ministry of Gender, Children, and Social Protection, Hon. Parleh Harris, expressed her gratitude to all stakeholders, including traditional leaders, for their courage in ending FGM. She encouraged everyone to move forward with unwavering determination, as the practice has now been banned. “We will now be telling our story to other countries about how we did it,” she said.
UN Women is supporting the roll out of the ban on FGM with funding from the Government of Sweden.
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01 November 2023
UN in Liberia commemorates 78th UN Day, with National Government reaffirming commitment to the Global Goals
Speaking at the event, UN Resident Coordinator, Madame Christine N. Umutoni, commended Liberia for its successful transition from being reliant on peacekeeping assistance to becoming a development partner of the UN. This recognition reflects the country’s significant progress in post-conflict recovery and demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development initiatives.
This year's UN Day celebration in Liberia coincided with the successful completion of the first round of the country's general elections, which were nationally owned and largely funded by Liberia itself.
The UN Resident Coordinator further noted, “during the first round of elections this year the population turned up in large numbers – (the percentage is one of the highest in the region in recent times), we noted the involvement of so many young people and more than 52% registered women voters speaks volume. It signified Liberians’ collective aspiration for a bright and prosperous future and shows a high sense of responsibility. Young people in Liberia constitute 75% of Liberia’s population, are the present and the future, and their active engagement in national processes including political participation is a demonstration of their nationalism and patriotism – essential foundations for the long-term development and stability of the nation."
Madam Umutoni also read out the UN Secretary General, Mr. Antonio Guterres’ UN Day Remark:
“The United Nations is a reflection of the world as it is – and an aspiration of the world we know it can be.
“It is our responsibility to help build that world of peace, sustainable development and human rights for all.
“I know we can do it. The Charter of the United Nations – which entered into force 78 years ago today – points the way.
“Above all, it is rooted in a spirit of determination to heal divisions, repair relations, and build peace.
“To expand opportunities and leave no one behind.
“To ensure justice, equality and empowerment for women and girls.
“To provide life-saving relief to those in need.
“And to be flexible enough to address challenges that did not even exist when the UN was born – from the existential climate crisis to the perils and promise of artificial intelligence.
“The United Nations is guided by timeless values and principles, but it must never be frozen in time. That is why we must always keep strengthening ways of working and applying a 21st century lens to all we do.
“On this United Nations Day, let us commit with hope and determination to build the better world of our aspirations.
“Let us commit to a future that lives up to the name of our indispensable organization.
“We are a divided world. We can and must be United Nations.
The President of Liberia, His Excellency George Manneh Weah was in attendance at the programme where he joined the UN family in Liberia for the observance of the 78th Anniversary. He reminded the audience that the United Nations was established to maintain international peace and security, and to achieve cooperation among nations on economic, social, and humanitarian problems.
According to him, this year’s theme, “Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Solidarity: Accelerating Action on the 2030 Agenda and its Sustainable Development Goals in Liberia Towards Peace, Prosperity, Progress, and Sustainability for All”, is a clarion call for Liberians to define their priority toward the 2030 Agenda.
President Weah announced that Liberia endorsed the Secretary-General’s Action for Peacekeeping (A4P) Initiative, which he said aims to strengthen peacekeeping through more targeted mandate, stronger and safer operations, better equipped and trained forces, and by mobilizing support for political solutions.
He said the endorsement is a manifestation of Liberia’s commitment to the 2030 Agenda as reflected within the Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD), with major targets including job creation, infrastructure development, industrialization, access to affordable healthcare and education, and the sustenance of peace and security to keep the nation focused on its future development agenda.
“It is in this light that my Government has been keen on road connectivity, free education and healthcare delivery,” Dr. Weah said further. “We have also taken care to ensure respect and protection of the inalienable rights of citizens, protection of human rights, press freedom, and the ongoing fight against corruption.”
He also highlighted how this year’s celebration falls in line with Liberia’s political season, where Liberians exercise their democratic rights through the elections of October 10 and are poised for runoff election to elect their President on Tuesday, November 14, 2023.
He thanked the United Nations and other partners as well as friends for supporting the journey to sustainable democracy.
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29 September 2023
Cultivating Change for Women's Livelihoods and Agricultural Production in Liberia
Comprising 52 dedicated members (out of which 86% are women) hailing from diverse surrounding communities, the cooperative was founded in 2005 and registered as a corporate entity, being incorporated under the Cooperative Development Agency (CDA) in Liberia. It manages a sprawling 65-hectare farmland, nurturing the growth of rice, cassava, and a multitude of other crops.
Under the project “Linking Extension and Research to Farmers for Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition,” funded by the European Union (EU), FAO in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Central Agriculture Research Institute (CARI) supported the cooperative to embark on a transformative mission to rice farming practices in the community and in the country, making them more sustainable and productive.
The cooperative also set up business service center and established a rice demonstration plot. There, they tested rice seeds and experimented with sustainable planting and harvesting techniques tailored to the characteristics of the rice variety with full support of CARI. side FAO's team of experts also provided hands-on technical training on sustainable crop production practices, post-harvest management, processing and marketing to member farmers.
In addition, leadership skills training on business management was designed to empower the farmers with skills directly applicable to manage their farming system as a business activity. The agriculture innovations up-scaling contextually relevant technologies will improve the production of the surrounding communities.
Cooperative members are transplanting. ©FAO
Seedlings for transplanting. ©FAO
Adoption of improved farming methods and practices
"We learned from the training how to enhance our farming methods, so we use those methods,” said James P. Yarkpawoo, a production manager WAWMC, who is a graduate from Cuttington University in Liberia with a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science.
He was moved to join the team in 2021 by the cooperative’s strong focus and commitment to succeed. Within the team, he provides technical backstopping, which was lacking in the cooperative, to advance rice production in order to ensure people in the community and the country are adequately fed.
James enthusiastically voiced his excitement about the advancements in their farming methods. He explained that they used to overcrowd rice on the nurseries which led to undernourished seedlings and randomly transplanted in rice field. Now, they have optimized it to 20 by 20, 25 by 25, and 30 by 30 centimeters, aligning with the specific requirements of their chosen rice variety.
It was on a rainy afternoon, 10 August 2023, that the members of the community were at work on the rice fields. It was an important day for rice transplanting that could not be missed.
“Today marks the prime time for transplanting,” James continued. "We've learned that it should be done just after 14-15 days from nursery planting. Previously, we used to transplant after 21 days, but we changed our approach to ensure better yields."
“The technical training taught us how to select suitable plots, determine optimal transplanting timing, and more for sustainable agricultural practices. Previously when our rice plants faced overcrowding, we used excessive fertilizers. Now, we've adopted the right spacing for the specific rice variety."
James P. Yarkpawoo (right), Ma Musu Barto, (center), and Varbah Miabah, WAWMC co-chair (left). ©FAO
Empowerment of Women through enhanced access to productive resources
“Before, women were denied in education,” says Musu Barto, the chairperson of the War Affected Women Multi-Purpose Cooperative, “that is why we started the cooperative to pull women together, to share ideas, for instance on how to take care of our children, how to advocate for rights to own properties.”
She is proud of the community and strength that women have gained through the years of hardworking, sharing and collective efforts.
“Now, women have access to production resources, and knowledge. We can save money and can send our children to school.”
FAO’s technical support to organize and manage Village Saving and Loan Associations (VSLA) for women and set up a warehouse to manage the resources and harvests under previous projects was what they continue to sustain and grow.
“Today, we are doing agriculture not only for consuming, but for business. We are supplying to school feeding program, and this has improved our income levels and livelihoods too.”
Through the partnership, capacity development programs, and continuous learning on the demonstration ground, they have not only cultivated fields but also sown the seeds of empowerment, and hope in their locality and could inspire change in other places across Liberia.
About the project
Project “Linking Extension and Research to Farmers for Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition,” funded by European Union (EU), implemented in 2019-2023. The project aimed at strengthening the linkages between research and extension service providers, higher level education institutions, farmers, and other value chain actors in the country to enhance effective and sustainable agriculture production and promoting food security.
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26 September 2023
Community-based Facilitators and Chairs of Women's Peace Huts in Bong and Grand Bassa Counties Benefit from Capacity Strengthening Initiative
The Orange Digital Center (ODC) in Monrovia, UN Women Liberia, and Orange Foundation, in partnership with National Peace Hut Women of Liberia (NaPHWoL), recently conducted a Training of Trainers for five peace huts community-based facilitators and two days of capacity building for three Chairs from the NaPHWoL in digital and financial literacy, digitized Savings and Loan Association (SLA) model/methodology and Orange Mobile Money. The objective of the training was to strengthen the capacity of the Facilitators by providing knowledge and skills to support the implementation of digital literacy classes for rural women in the two Women Ditial Centers (WDCs) in Bong and Nimba Counties.
According to the Women's Economic Empowerment Program Manager, Ramon G. Garway, upon completion of the training, the Facilitators are expected to commence the Cycle Three digital literacy classes for 100 (50 per county) new peace hut women and young girls in Totota, Bong, and Tarr Town, Grand Bassa Counties. He mentioned that over the past two years, UN Women Liberia and Orange Foundation have been working to ensure that the two existing WDCs in Bong and Grand Bassa Counties continue to provide peace hut women with access to digital literacy classes and tools. The intervention will address the gender digital divide and promote digital literacy among peace hut women, which is crucial to ensuring equal participation, empowerment, and access to opportunities in the increasingly digital world.
During the training, Aisha Kamara Kolubah, National Project Officer at UN Women, did a presentation on the Buy from Women (BfW) Platform. According to Ms. Kolubah, the BfW Platform is a cloud-based enterprise and e-commerce platform that links women farmers and entrepreneurs to market, information, and finance. It addresses the structural barriers faced by women smallholder farmers, equipped entrepreneurs, and small business owners.
Lischen Dwuye Kamara, Orange Money Distribution Manager, led the presentation on a step-by-step guide on the operation of Orange Money. These sessions provided knowledge for the Facilitators who will serve as Orange Money Agents to provide extension and advisory on services for BfW and Orange Money activities in the targeted communities.
Also, at the training, Zaza Mulba, the Executive Director of the Orange Digital Center, provided detailed information on the available services at the ODC. The Center provides access to digital technology for young people with or without qualifications. It gives them access to the latest technological skills to strengthen their employability and prepare them for jobs. All of the programs are provided free of charge and open to everyone. They ranged from digital trainings for young people, 90% of which are practical guidance for project bearers, and start-up acceleration.
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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.
###
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
Statement On The General Elections In Liberia By The Special Representative Of The Secretary-General For West Africa And The Sahel
The Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, visited Liberia from 9 to 12 October in the context of the 10 October general elections.
The Special Representative congratulates the Liberian people for the peaceful and transparent conduct of the general election of 10 October 2023. The Special Representative wishes to commend the National Elections Commission and the security forces for their professionalism in the conduct of the elections.
Mr. Simão acknowledges the significant mobilization of enthusiastic and patriotic young men and women on polling day and calls for the continued engagement of the youth and women in political processes in Liberia.
As the counting and tallying of the results continues, Mr. Simão calls upon political actors to uphold their commitment to peaceful elections under the Farmington River Declaration. In particular, the Special Representative urges all candidates to be patient and let the Electoral Commission conduct the electoral process in full compliance with the Constitution and laws in force in Liberia and to resolve any dispute through the established legal channels. He equally urges the National Elections Commission to pursue the tallying process in the same spirit of professionalism and transparency.
The Special Representative invites Liberians to continue in their efforts to consolidate democracy through credible, inclusive, and peaceful electoral processes in the country. ###
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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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Press Release
05 October 2023
Joint Statement by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) on the electoral process in Liberia
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the United Nations (UN) are closely following the progress towards Liberia’s presidential and legislative elections scheduled to take place on 10 October 2023.
The Head of the ECOWAS Observer Mission to Liberia, Professor Attahiru Muhammadu Jega and the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Santos Simão, undertook a joint mission to Liberia from 3 to 4 October. The objective of the mission was to assess Liberian stakeholders’ political perspectives and to convey messages of peace and inclusivity in the context of the electoral process.
The Joint Mission consulted with political stakeholders and national institutions. They also interacted with members of the Diplomatic Corps and the United Nations Country Team.
The Mission acknowledged the progress in the preparations towards the elections, and underscored the need for peaceful, credible, transparent and inclusive polls in an atmosphere of tolerance that promotes unity in Liberia.
In particular, the Mission urged political actors to refrain from incendiary rhetoric that incites violence and encouraged all actors to exercise restraint, and assiduously safeguard the hard-won peace and maintain national cohesion in the country. The delegation highlighted that political leaders have the responsibility to adhere to democratic values and the rule of law. They further urged political leaders to send clear messages to their supporters and the public that they stand for peace and reject violence.
The delegation strongly condemned acts of electoral violence, in particular, the violence, loss of lives and destruction of properties that occurred in Foya, Lofa County on 29 September. They called for swift investigation and accountability of the perpetrators. They reiterated that violence had no place in democratic processes.
The delegation urged political parties and candidates to uphold their commitment to peaceful elections and seek judicial resolution of disputes in accordance with the Farmington River Declaration 2023. They called on the people of Liberia, and their leaders, to continue to demonstrate a high sense of responsibility and preserve its values of tolerance and peace at this historic moment of democratic consolidation
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16 February 2023
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