UN FOCUS March - May 2010

Vol. 6, No. 03 UN FOCUS March - May 2010

Training of Elite Police Unit Ends Gearing up for Elections Building Peace from Grassroots EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: MARGOTWALLSTRöM

Message from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General

country. However, with an annual budget elections in 2011 will be led and managed of a little over US$300 million, the Gov- by the Government of Liberia. One im- ernment of Liberia is seriously constrained portant step in that process is the adoption to finance all the necessary training, equip- of a threshold bill. I therefore call on all ment and infrastructure for the country’s concerned to work without any further de- security institutions on which the people lay towards the finalization of work on the of Liberia depend for their security, in ad- bill. Liberia’s international partners, in- dition to meeting the various developmen- cluding the United Nations, are ready and tal needs that Liberians have identified as committed to actively support these elec- part of the Poverty Reduction Strategy. tions. In this regard, the United Nations, Without adequate security, the consolida- representing development partners, and tion of Liberia’s hard-won peace cannot the NEC have finalized a 2010-2012 briefed the Security Council in be sustained and that could stymie much electoral support project worth US$39.3 March on the 20th progress report needed development. Therefore, it is im- million. A number of partners already have of the Secretary-General portant for Liberia’s development partners pledged their support, and it is hoped that on the United Nations Mission in to continue to offer generous support to more will contribute to this effort support- Liberia. The briefing gave me an build the capacity of the law enforcement ing key electoral processes and enhancing Iopportunity to highlight the significant and judicial sectors. It is equally impor- NEC’s professional and operational ca- progress Liberia has accomplished so far, tant nonetheless for the Government of pacity to conduct the elections in a cred- as well as the substantial challenges that Liberia, both the executive and the legis- ible and competent manner. still remain. Security Council members lature, to provide all the necessary support With the encouragement from Presi- expressed satisfaction with the progress in to these institutions so that they can pro- dent Johnson Sirleaf, the United Nations the peace process in Liberia, while noting gressively assume responsibilities from in Liberia has embraced the “Delivering as the considerable challenges that remain UNMIL. One” programme that will further enhance particularly in the Rule of Law and Justice National security assumes special sig- synergy among the UN agencies, Funds sectors. The civil unrest that led to the loss nificance in view of the legislative and and Programmes. Liberia represents the of lives and wanton destruction of prop- presidential elections in October 2011, a first post-conflict country to embrace this erty in Lofa County at the end of February little over a year from now. These elec- concept in the context of an integrated demonstrated the continued challenges to tions will be a litmus test for Liberia since peacekeeping mission. This initiative rule of law, as well as the unfinished work conducting the elections peacefully and should enable a seamless transition as the of national reconciliation. efficiently will indicate the sustainability UN mission withdraws and hands over the Liberia’s ability to achieve a steady of the peace achieved so far and the coun- remaining but important tasks of recovery state of security will have a direct bear- try’s capacity to organize and conduct a and development to the people of Liberia ing on the successful transition and even- politically sensitive national event. and the rest of the UN family in the coun- tual withdrawal of peacekeepers from the Unlike the first post-war election, the try.

Ellen Margrethe Løj Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Coordinator of United Nations Operations in Liberia

2 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 IN THIS ISSUE

4. Training of Elite Police Unit Ends 6. Two Decades of Peace Processes 8. Gearing up for Elections 10. New HQ for Election Commission 12. Building Peace from Grassroots 14. Land Commission Takes Off 16. Interview: Margot Wallström 18. Battling Polio and Measles 20. Better future for girls, farmers 4. Training of Elite Police Unit Ends 22. Maximizing Aid for Development With the graduation in May of the final class of the Emergency Response Unit of 24. UNHCR Transfers Assets the Liberian National Police, the total number of the elite unit now stands at 344 26. Liberia Prepares for 1325 with 4 female officers as the LNP now shifts its focus to the development of the Anniversary Police Support Unit which will offer flexible armed support to normal police operations. 28. Bangladeshi peacekeepers leave their mark 30. Liberians Speak

Chief of Public Information George Somerwill 8. Gearing up for Elections Editor and Head of Publications Mathew Elavanalthoduka As the countdown to the 2011 national elections begins, Liberia’s development partners have unveiled a road map for smooth conduct of the electoral proceed- Staff Writers ings through a project that would enhance the capacity of the National Elections Sulaiman Momodu Commission and support key exercises. J. Wesley Washington

Design and Graphics Paddy Defoxy Ilos, II Thomas S. Blidi

Photos Saton Winter Emmanuel Tobey

Published by the Public Information Office, United Nations 12. Building Peace from Grassroots Mission in Liberia In a move that would take peacebuilding to the grassroots level as UNMIL grad- [email protected] ually draws down, various Liberian organizations came together in May to sign www.unmil.org agreements that would facilitate their participation in peacebuilding activities across the country. Printed by Buck Press Ltd., Accra, Ghana

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 3 ERU graduates demonstrate their skills Training of Elite Police Unit Ends ith the graduation of aster situations. number of the ERU as well as the LNP’s 47 officers of Class The original targeted strength of the current emphasis on the expansion of the Five at the Libe- ERU was put at 500 officers. But an as- Police Support Unit (PSU) in order to of- ria National Police sessment shows that its present strength fer flexible armed support to normal police Training Academy in is sufficient to effectively respond to tac- operations, while allowing the ERU to fo- Wthe first week of May, the development tical interventions and critical incidents cus on its mandated role to address critical of the Emergency Response Unit (ERU) has come to an end. With the last class, Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield disclosed that with the fund- the total number of trained ERU personnel stands at 344 including 4 female offic- ing the US Government will provide trainers and advisors, ers. The governments of the United States, equipment and some infrastructure to specifically address one Ireland and Germany, the UN Mission in of the Liberian government’s highest priorities – strengthen Liberia and the Ministry of Justice had lent support to the development of this elite and expand the PSU to be an effective force in time for the 2011 unit within the Liberia National Police. elections. The ERU personnel are trained to deal with crimes which may require the use of anywhere in Liberia. They proved pro- incidents. firearms – specifically the arrest of armed fessional and efficient when they were Addressing the final group of gradu- criminals, violent crimes in progress, hos- deployed outside Monrovia to respond to ates, Deputy Special Representative of the tage situations and armed terrorists ac- unrest in Bong Mines, the Liberia Agricul- Secretary-General for Rule of Law Henri- tivities. They also deal with riot control, tural Company and more recently, Sinoe etta Mensa-Bonsu urged the ERU person- engage in anti-crime patrol in crime-prone rubber plantations. Budgetary constraints nel to exhibit sound judgment, restraint, areas and provide assistance in major dis- also have played a part in limiting the and above all, respect and compassion for

4 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 but noted that the US support to police and justice sector development in Liberia does not end there. She named Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s promised ad- ditional funding for police assistance this year; and more recently, Undersecretary of State William Burns fulfilled that promise by announcing that the US Government will provide US$19.75 million for support to the LNP. “The US$19.75 million is intended to support capacity building within the LNP in terms of skills and resources. It is not a substitute for budgetary support that the Liberian government has responsibility for,” she stressed. “We cannot pay salaries, incentives or provide rice.” Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield disclosed that with the funding the US Gov- ernment will provide trainers and advisors, equipment and some infrastructure US Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield, DSRSG to specifically address one of the Liberian Mensa-Bonsu and Police Commissioner Sawang pose with graduates government’s highest priorities – strengthen and expand the PSU to be an effective force in time for the 2011 elections. The US Ambassador said the assistance for the PSU and other aspects of the LNP will draw lessons learned from the ERU development programme. While providing assistance for management of the LNP, communications, and support for the Training of Elite Police Unit Ends academy in expanding training capabili- ties, ERU will also benefit from in-service those they serve while discharging their have extended their trust in you; and you training assistance and other support as re- duties. “Your service as ERU officers will must return this trust,” she stressed. quired. “Our goal is to be part of the inter- be defined by how you show respect for She praised members of the ERU and national effort to build an effective Liberia human rights of the citizenry, how con- the LNP for proving their merit and com- National Police,” she said and hoped that trolled you are in your use of force and mitment in providing security but noted the US Government’s commitment will your use of firearms, how much respect that they cannot succeed in isolation, and encourage others to invest in the LNP and you maintain for the chain of command, cannot deliver if not adequately funded. in so doing show their support for ongoing and in sum how well you adhere to your “The LNP are facing a very real opera- stability for all Liberians. Duty Manual, rules and regulations,” she tional dilemma,” she noted. “While they Deputy Inspector-General of Police for told the graduates and urged them to take are steadfastly improving in the quality Administration Samuel Dakana, on behalf the newly acquired skills, knowledge and of police service delivered, they are also of Justice Minister Cllr. Christiana Tah, ap- experience and their inner strength and increasingly challenged by the imbalance pealed to the citizenry and residents within transform these into the best and most pro- between operational demands and avail- our borders to support the LNP and ERU fessional service that they can give their able budgetary allocations.” The UN in maintaining peace and security, protect- communities. deputy envoy encouraged the government ing lives and property, and enforcing the Mensa-Bonsu reminded the ERU and to do its utmost to provide the LNP, and laws of the country. He frowned on the use LNP officers that they represent the hopes, the security sector, with the means to be of mob violence as a way of justice and ad- dreams and means to ensure Liberians and operationally effective. vised everyone to seek the due process of residents alike live in safety, security and United States Ambassador Linda Tho- law. Training of ERU personnel began on peaceful co-existence. She warned them mas-Greenfield said that her government 2 January 2008. Those selected are active that any breaches of regulations, or indisci- was proud to have trained this elite special LNP officers. Each candidate underwent a pline among them will be met with serious unit under the programme funded through vetting process. and appropriate consequences. “Citizens a Congressional grant earmarked in 2007, JWW

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 5 Two Decades of Peace Processes he Special Representative of ners, civil society, research institutions, ture security arrangement in Liberia that the UN Secretary-General, media and other relevant stakeholders as will replace UNMIL will rely in part on Margrethe Løj, has lauded well as some of the region’s most distin- the ECOWAS framework,” said the UN the Economic Commu- guished personalities, including former envoy. She added that before as well as af- nity of West African States heads of state Dawda Jawara of The Gam- ter the establishment of UNMIL in 2003, T(ECOWAS) for its continued support and bia, Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria and ECOWAS and its constituent member participation in the peace process in Libe- Jerry John Rawlings of Ghana attended states have continued to play a major role ria, which has been critical in sustaining the conference. Former executive sec- in supporting the evolving peace proc- peace. retaries and former commanders of the ess in Liberia. “Before through ECOMIL Congratulating the Government of ECOWAS Ceasefire Monitoring Group, and ECOMOG, as well as in mediating Liberia and ECOWAS for organizing a ECOMOG, also participated in the late the Accra Peace Agreement. And to this week-long international conference in Li- March conference. day, ECOWAS has participated actively beria’s capital Monrovia to examine the “As you all may know, the United in the International Contact Group on Li- sub-regional group’s achievements, fail- Nations Peacekeeping Mission in Libe- beria, the International Contact Group on ures and lessons learned in relation to two ria (UNMIL) is already drawing down its the Mano River Basin, the Governance decades of peace processes in West Africa, military troops as a prelude to the eventual and Economic Management Programme the UN envoy described the conference withdrawal of the Mission. As ECOWAS (GEMAP), and other multilateral and as a “welcome initiative which could not and other bilateral and multilateral part- bilateral efforts. This support has been have come at a better time.” ners have been very much a part of our critical in ensuring the sustainability of Participants from ECOWAS, African work here in Liberia and elsewhere in the the peace process, which included DDRR, Union, UN systems, development part- sub-region, I am convinced that any fu- post-conflict recovery, reconstruction, de-

6 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 ance, lack of respect for human rights, socio-economic and political inequity and grinding poverty. “Liberia is no different,” she noted. Despite challenges, President Sirleaf said Liberia’s “nightmare” was over. “The country has been at peace since 2003. We are grateful for the support we have received from our West African, American, European, and Asian nations; from the United Nations and the entire international community.” While the UN peacekeeping mission in Sierra Leone successfully completed its mandate a few years ago, UN peacekeepers are currently deployed in Liberia and Côte d’Ivoire. Although there are no active civil conflicts in West Africa, the security situation in the post-conflict so- cieties continues to be characterized by fragility. Over the past 20 years, the region has also been contending with simmering low intensity conflicts such as the Touareg rebellions in Mali and Niger, the conflicts in Casamance and in the Niger Delta.“It is just not enough to be preparing military contingents to stop carnage, but we have to prevent this carnage in the first Distinguished personalities at the summit place through good political and economic governance,” remarked Dr. Abdel-Fatau Musah, ECOWAS’ Director of Political Affairs. President of the ECOWAS Commis- sion James Victor Gbeho, and Said Djin- Two Decades of Peace Processes nit, Special Representative of the Secre- tary-General in West Africa, were among velopment and national reconciliation,” Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire. some 200 participants who contributed Løj said. Expressing the hope that never again to deliberations. Working in tandem with Christmas Eve 2009 marked the twen- will Liberia become the epicentre of in- ECOWAS and other regional bodies, the tieth anniversary of the invasion of Libe- stability in the sub-region, Special Rep- African Union has declared the Year 2010 ria by National Patriotic Front of Liberia resentative Løj noted that West African the African Year of Peace to reiterate its rebels. ECOWAS for the first time since its leaders and people are fed up with conflict, commitment to peace in Africa. creation in 1975, intervened in the conflict war and violence, and are determined col- The conference also witnessed the by sending troops in 1990 to restore order. lectively to prevent the kind of horror wit- launch of the ECOWAS Youth Volunteer The ship laden with peacekeepers from nessed in the region for about 15 years. “I programme in which a group of women neighbouring countries raised a white flag hope the outcome of this conference will and men aged between 18 and 35 years to signify peace, friendship and neutral- point us in the direction to ensure that.” from ECOWAS countries are expected ity. However, as they landed on Liberian Delivering her keynote address, Presi- to help to consolidate peace, recovery, soil, their friendly gesture was greeted by dent Ellen Johnson Sirleaf requested a national reconciliation and rehabilitation a firestorm of mortar shelling. Although moment of silence in memory of peace- in crisis-affected communities. The pilot they sustained casualties, the peacekeep- keepers, partners, and the thousands of phase, supported by the African Develop- ers were determined to execute their mis- Liberians who perished during the coun- ment Bank, the United Nations Volunteer sion of separating the warring factions and try’s civil war. She commended those who Programme, UNESCO and UNHCR, will ensuring a ceasefire. The conflict in Libe- laboured so tirelessly and those who made cover Sierra Leone, Guinea Bissau and ria also spread to neighbouring countries daring sacrifices for peace in Liberia. The Guinea. with rebellion beginning in Sierra Leone Liberian leader said the root causes of SM in 1991, followed by further conflicts in civil conflicts in Africa are bad govern-

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 7 Gearing up for Elections s the countdown to the Speaking at the signing ceremony, 2011 presidential and leg- Soumaré revealed that the total estimated islative elections begins, cost of support to the elections is US$39.3 the Government of Libe- million out of which the Liberian govern- ria, the National Elections ment has committed US$12.1 million. ACommission (NEC) and the country’s de- The government of Spain has contributed velopment partners have together unveiled US$750,000 while pledges so far by de- a roadmap for the smooth conduct of the velopment partners amount to US$15.6 electoral proceedings. Deputy Special million. “I have every confidence that the Representative of the Secretary-General balance in the budget will be successfully Planning & Economic Affairs Minister Konneh, DSRSG Soumaré and NEC Chairman Fromayan sign the project document for Recovery and Governance Moustapha mobilized this year,” Soumaré said while stressing the need for ample time to plan Soumaré, Planning & Economic Affairs commending Liberia’s development part- for the conduct of the elections. He noted Minister Amara Konneh, and NEC Chair- ners for their goodwill and commitment to that the exercise is not an event but a se- man James Fromayan recently signed a support the NEC. ries of processes that lead up to polling project document that spells out the road Soumaré, who is also the UN Resi- day. “The future of the country depends map to realize credible, free and fair elec- dent Coordinator, hoped that the Liberian on the 2011 elections,” he said, adding tions. government and other local stakeholders that although a democratic election will not bring about solutions to all of Liberia’s The project aims to support building the operational and pro- problems it will give the country the space fessional capacity of the NEC and key exercises of the electoral to move forward. International partners listen attentively process including boundary limitation, voter registration, civic/ voter education, domestic observation and women’s participation. It will also support NEC’s relations with political parties and the legislature, training for security, and legal counsel.

The project aims to support building would play their part in a timely manner the operational and professional capac- to create an environment conducive to a ity of the NEC and key exercises of the credible vote, referring to the necessary electoral process including boundary limi- legislations to establish the legal frame- tation, voter registration, civic/voter edu- work for the elections. “Any further de- cation, domestic observation and women’s lay in the passage of the relevant bills will participation. It will also support NEC’s have deleterious effect on the ability of the relations with political parties and the NEC to conduct the electoral process,” legislature, training for security, and legal he warned, encouraging deliberate speed counsel. Unlike the 2005 presidential and to take the necessary actions that will legislative elections, the upcoming 2011 strengthen the legitimacy and credibility elections will be led by the NEC, and the of the 2011 elections. support from the United Nations and the NEC Chairman James Fromayan development partners is aimed at comple- thanked the Government for its unflinch- menting the efforts of the Commission. ing support to the work of the NEC while

8 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 Legislature soon,” he said. It demonstrates to the development partners the government’s commitment to holding free, fair and credible elections next year, he added. Minister Konneh called on other partners to join in and assist the NEC in the conduct of the next elections as it will de- termine the future of Liberia. “For us Li- berians, we have a rendezvous with desti- ny to either demonstrate to our people and the world that we are now a responsible country capable of managing our own future or we can choose to reverse the gains we’ve made over the past seven years,” he said. He noted that the 2005 elections were managed by the international community because then Liberians had not demonstrated to the world that they were a responsible country. “The dialogue today is different,” he said. Konneh promised to work with others in the government and the National Planning & Economic Affairs Minister Konneh, DSRSG Soumaré and NEC Chairman Fromayan sign the project document Legislature to ensure the passage of the Fromayan warned that any delay in passed expeditiously. Threshold bill, which is the initial step to passing the necessary legislation could Planning & Economic Affairs Min- the holding of free, fair and credible elec- give a bad signal to the country’s develop- ister Amara Konneh reaffirmed the gov- tions. He then made a passionate plea to ment partners that Liberians were not seri- ernment’s commitment to meeting its members of the National Legislature to ous about the conduct of next year’s elec- obligations in the project document over fast track the process there because time tions. “We don’t want to have a situation the two-year period. “As a member of the is running out. that our hands will be tied and squeezed budget committee I can say here on behalf with time,” he said and called on the me- of my colleagues that we will protect in JWW dia, civil society and political parties to the budget the resources allocated for the ensure that the various legislations are NEC which will be sent to the National International partners listen attentively NEC Chairman Fromayan makes remarks

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 9 New HQ for Election that meaningful democracy requires that all Liberians become involved and engage each other and their leaders with honesty, respect and candour. Commission Ambassador Thomas Greenfield reiterated that the completion of the new lthough a number of legis- Government nearly US$70,000 annually NEC headquarters is not the end of the lations required for timely for rent. US Government’s commitment to help- conduct of the 2011 na- The US Government through US- ing make sure Liberians are able to choose tional and presidential AID’s Liberia Community Infrastructure their leaders in free and fair elections. The elections still remain unre- Program (LCIP) formally handed over United States is committed to supporting Asolved, the institution charged with the re- the newly constructed NEC headquarters the right of Liberians to decide who runs sponsibility to hold free, fair and credible to the Liberian Government on 24 March their government following next year’s elections got a major facelift recently with 2010. election. She disclosed that the US Gov- the dedication of its new headquarters. US Ambassador Linda Thomas Green- ernment is providing US$17 million to The National Elections Commission’s field, speaking at the dedication, termed The hand-over ceremony (NEC) two-storey, modern headquarters the NEC as one of Liberia’s most impor- located at the site which formerly hosted tant government institutions, but noted the offices of the United States Agency for that it is just one brick in the structure of International Development (USAID) in Liberia’s democracy which alone cannot the late 1970s, but demolished in January guarantee successful governance. “It is 2009 due to structural problems, cost the the starting point for the democratic proc- US Government US$3.2 million to con- ess in Liberia because it ensures that the struct. This is the first time since Liberia’s leaders who run Liberia’s democracy are independence that the NEC has its own selected by the people in a politically-neu- headquarters which will save the Liberian tral and impartial manner.” She advised

10 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 The new Headquarters of the National Elections Commission build the NEC’s capacity to prepare for level of mishap in the electoral process can The Liberian Vice President noted and carry out the 2011 elections, which squarely be blamed on the NEC. But when with optimism that the NEC will continue “will be, and must be, free and fair, open an election falls short of the expectation of to conduct itself professionally and play a and transparent.” the people and situation degenerates into pivotal role without fear or favor, in this On behalf of the Board of Commis- a crisis, although the Commission will be new democratic dispensation, so that it sioners, NEC Chairman James Fromayan the obvious targets, the entire country can continues to earn the trust of the Liberian again appealed to the Executive and Leg- become the victim. people. Dr. Boakai further urged Liberians islative branches to immediately pass the Receiving the new headquarters, Fro- to be appreciative that the Commission Threshold bill, a major piece of legislation mayan noted that it is not only a symbol has a firm base from which to build on its that has been a victim of political wran- of the long standing friendship between recent achievements, citing the conduct of gling for nearly two years. “As a result Liberia and the United States; but more the two senatorial by-elections in 2009. of all this unwarranted delay in the pas- importantly underscores the US’ global Dr. Boakai reminded the Commission sage of the Threshold bill, I honestly do partnership with and encouragement to that the conduct of free, fair and transpar- not see how the NEC can be expected to countries that are upholding basic demo- ent elections exemplifies good governance conduct a national referendum to address cratic tenets. He urged Liberians to see the which is embedded in the Government’s key constitutional issues under severe time need to reciprocate the gesture by choos- four pillars of the Poverty Reduction constraint,” Fromayan warned, noting that ing ballots over bullets and accept the Strategy (PRS). “We will hold you, mem- elections require massive planning and fact that the rule of law and the adherence bers of the NEC, individually and collec- time is an essential factor. thereto is the surest guarantee to democ- tively responsible to maintain the sanctity He cautioned that the Board of Com- racy. “Anything to the contrary is simply of this building, especially the integrity, missioners is mindful of the fact that any an invitation to tyranny,” he warned. impartially and steadfastness required to Vice President Joseph Boakai, who conform to international best practices, The hand-over ceremony deputized for President Ellen Johnson the standard of any democratic country’s Sirleaf, reminded Liberians that the new National Elections Commission,” he cau- building is not just a structure but all that tioned. it signifies. “This building is a ‘one stop The building will accommodate mod- shop’ in this epoch to nurture a sustained ern offices, meeting rooms, computer and democratic culture based on the rule of data processing centre, a resource and law, which, I’m proud to state, has already reference room, a media centre, space for taken off on a healthy trajectory,” he said election observers and for extra personnel noting that the building is an attestation of during the election season. the US Government’s assurance to partner assembly and adherence to the rule of law. JWW

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 11 UNHCR Representative Ibrahima Coly addresses partners Building Peace from Grassroots n a timely move that would take to participate in peacebuilding activities. Fund (PBF). As people with their ears on peacebuilding to the grassroots lev- “We have been crying to be part of the ground, civil society activists argue el as the United Nations Mission this process,” says Salome G. Gofan, that insecurity in any part of Liberia is a in Liberia gradually draws down, Executive Director of Integrated Centre threat to security in all parts of the coun- representatives of various organi- for Community Empowerment, who was try, and if conflicts are not resolved at the Izations met at the United Nations High among representatives of 15 civil society community level, it can affect national de- Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) organizations that signed tripartite agree- velopment. headquarters in Monrovia in May to sign ments with the UNHCR and the Libe- Until now, local and small non-gov- agreements that give them the opportunity ria Peacebuilding Office/Peace Building ernmental organizations, especially those

12 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 submitted proposals, 15 organizations ing for peace committees in six conflict were selected through a competitive proc- prone communities in Gbarpolu, Bomi ess based on criteria of the Peacebuilding and Grand Cape Mount counties. For their Fund and in line with Liberia’s Poverty part, the Women Empowerment for Self Reduction Strategy. The projects are in- Employment intends to enhance social tended to address localized conflicts such cohesiveness of the community by reduc- as religious and ethnic, and will employ ing poverty and promoting conflict resolu- conflict resolution and mediation skills. tion through provision of two essential life Some of the projects will cover psychoso- skills -- training in straw baskets and coun- cial support to war-affected people espe- try cloth weaving -- while simultaneously cially children and women, and victims of providing psychosocial support through sexual and gender-based violence, among sports and cultural activities for 40 ethni- others. cally diverse women. “The small grant initiative is a way of To enhance their technical capacity responding to the cries of small civil socie- in programme and financial management ty institutions that felt left out of the imple- and familiarize themselves with reporting mentation of the PBF. An appeal was made and financial procedures, the UN refugee

The UNHCR Small Grants Initiative is a new partnership which supports grassroots initiatives for peacebuilding through provision of small grants of up to US$ 26,000. Although 99 organizations submitted proposals, 15 organizations were selected through a competitive process based on criteria of the Peace- building Fund and in line with Liberia’s Poverty Reduction Strategy. The projects are intended to address localized conflicts such as religious and ethnic, and will employ conflict resolution and mediation skills.

to the UN Special Representative and it agency conducted training for the imple- UNHCR Representative Ibrahima Coly addresses partners was subsequently looked into,” says Wil- menting partners. Representative Coly ex- operating outside Monrovia, had limited fred N. Gray-Johnson, Executive Direc- presses hope that Liberia will enjoy lasting consideration for the implementation of tor of Liberia Peacebuilding Office/PBF. peace long after the UN mission would peacebuilding projects due to unmet crite- While extolling the UN refugee agency for have phased out. UNHCR is also involved ria. “We have done a lot in terms of build- being outstanding in implementing peace- in skills training and income generation, ing the capacity of community members building projects, Gray-Johnson cautioned all of which contribute to the consolidation and leaders in peacebuilding, encouraging the community based organizations to be of peace. peaceful negotiation and dialogue in re- careful in the ways they implement the Although the refugee agency has re- solving land disputes, inter-tribal conflicts projects in order not to exacerbate tensions duced its activities in Liberia, it has four and other issues that threaten the peace in instead of mitigating them. field offices that will work with the various the country. Involving grass root organiza- As the implementation of the projects organizations. “Peacebuilding is a continu- tions at this time add value to this effort begin and will last from six months to one ous process and UNHCR is committed to because members of these organizations year, the 15 organizations will be focus- working with you,” Coly assures the group know who is living where and what they ing on issues which have the tendency to but reminds all that their activities will be are faced with,” says Ibrahima Coly, UN- undermine peace efforts in their commu- closely monitored. “Donors need to know HCR Representative, stressing that people nities. Liberians United to Expose Hidden what is happening. You may be working should talk about peace in the family and Weapons for instance says it will be pro- 24 hours, but if you don’t report to donors, in their communities. moting peace and reconciliation among nothing is happening. This is going to be The UNHCR Small Grants Initia- community structures in Bomi County the test case in Liberia. If we do well, if the tive is a new partnership which supports while the Peace Building Resource Centre projects are successful, they will not only grassroots initiatives for peacebuilding aims to reduce land disputes through com- stand a chance of continuation, but may through provision of small grants of up to munity as well as county level consulta- also be replicated in other countries.” US$ 26,000. Although 99 organizations tions on the nature of conflict and train- SM

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 13 Land Commission conducts one-day consultation in Bentol City, Montserrado County An elder makes comments during the Land Commission’s consultation in Robertsport, Grand Cape Mount County Land Commission Takes Off serious challenge to the sta- Land Commission in August 2009. Presi- UNICEF, the Norwegian Refugee Council bility, peace and security dent Ellen Johnson Sirleaf subsequently and the World Bank also contribute to the that Liberia now enjoys un- appointed a seven-member team with a work of the Commission while UNMIL der the watchful eyes of the five-year mandate to propose, advocate provides technical and logistical support. UN peacekeepers comes and coordinate reforms of land policy, The Commission has hit the ground fromA land. The prolonged civil war forced laws and programmes in the country. running. With support from UNMIL’s many people to flee their homes abandon- Its main objectives in policy and law Public Information Section creating pub- ing their land and properties only for oth- reform shall be to promote equitable and lic awareness and advocacy on the Com- ers to occupy them. As many of the origi- productive access to the nation’s land, mission’s mandate, it recently launched its nal owners have returned with the dawn of both public and private; security of tenure first consultation campaigns throughout peace, concerns over land rights, adminis- in land and the rule of law with respect to Liberia’s 15 political subdivisions. The tration, management, sale, possession, oc- landholding and dealings in land; effective hearings brought together county legisla- cupancy control and distribution abound land administration and management; and Commissioners and staff of the Land Commission brainstorm during one-day county consultations in Liberia today. investment in the development of the na- All over the country, from Maryland tion’s resources. and Grand Kru, Sinoe and Rivercess to The mandate extends to all land and Margibi, Grand Bassa, Bong, Nimba, Lofa land-based natural resources, including and Montserrado counties, there have been both urban and rural land, private and pub- grisly murders and violent conflicts over lic land, and land devoted to residential, land. Most of these are still unresolved. agricultural, industrial, commercial, for- Though ad-hoc committees have been set estry conservation and any other purposes. up to probe land disputes over time with With support from UN-HABITAT, fi- findings and recommendations presented nanced through the UN Peace-building to government, most of these disputes Fund, the Land Commission has begun im- have still not been resolved. plementing its activities aimed at making In order to find amicable solutions to a direct contribution to the peace building what could pose a serious challenge to the process as part of a long term land reform country’s peace and stability, the National programme. Other agencies and organiza- Legislature passed an Act establishing a tions including the UN Children’s Agency

14 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 opment. promote the four aspects of our mandate,” The process of establishing a Land he said adding that though the commission Commission started some three years ago does not have implementation functions, under the Governance Commission (GC). it has powers within the Act to follow-up It started as a small working group guided and ensure that proposed recommenda- by a steering committee of all of those in tions are seen through. the land sector, including the ministries of Dr. Brandy said that land disputes are agriculture and lands, mines and energy, on the front burner of the Commission, environmental protection agency (EPA), terming it as critical. The Commission forestry development authority (FDA), has begun mapping an inventory of land UNMIL, among others. disputes. Already, he said, they have com- The Commission’s Chairman, Dr. pleted three counties – Montserrado, Bomi Cecil T.O. Brandy, speaking at the forum and Margibi counties – and are rolling out in Montserrado County’s capital, Bentol, to the rest of the country. A task force on acknowledged that land issues have a seri- land disputes resolution is being formed. ous potential for conflict in post-war Li- Besides looking at border harmonization, beria, and the Commission is beginning to the Commission is looking at improving look at the numerous issues of land reform. land sector coordination. President John- Among the substantial number of rec- son Sirleaf instituted a three-month mora-

An elder makes comments during the Land Commission’s consultation in Robertsport, Grand Cape Mount County All over the country, from Maryland and Grand Kru, Sinoe and Rivercess to Margibi, Grand Bassa, Bong, Nimba, Lofa and Montserrado counties, there have been grisly murders and violent conflicts over land. Most of these are still unresolved. Land Commission Takes Off Though ad-hoc committees have been set up to probe land dis- tors, district commissioners, paramount putes over time with findings and recommendations presented and clan chiefs, women and youth organi- to government, most of these disputes have still not been re- zations as well as land commissioners, solved. In order to find amicable solutions to what could pose resident surveyors and other stakeholders from each of the counties. a serious challenge to the country’s peace and stability, the During each meeting, the Land Com- National Legislature passed an Act establishing a Land Com- missioner with oversight responsibility for mission in August 2009. President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf sub- the county provided participants with an overview of the Land Commission’s work, sequently appointed a seven-member team with a five-year mandate and objectives. The gathering de- mandate to propose, advocate and coordinate reforms of land liberated on a number of issues relating to policy, laws and programmes in the country. land use, land tenure, security and devel- Commissioners and staff of the Land Commission brainstorm during one-day county consultations ommendations that evolved from the vari- torium on the sale of public land. ous deliberations is an overwhelming view The Commission has also begun de- of the participants that “fast track courts” veloping new laws, procedures and guide- be established to prosecute those involved lines to facilitate the sale of public land. in land sale to more than one person. They “In the first 18 months we plan to develop also recommended that the signing of land a broad land policy framework and pri- title deeds be decentralized rather than oritize land policy development,” says Dr. signed exclusively by the President of Li- Brandy, noting that developing a clear le- beria. gal and institutional framework for dispute Chairman Brandy noted that he heads resolution is a major priority. Developing a commission that is a policy reform and a national land use map and management review commission. “Our activity will be plan and also modernizing the Center for looking at land reform, primarily looking National Documentations and Records are at law reform, and how we can speed up also on the cards. the process of dispute resolution. We have a clear mandate to recommend procedures, JWW guidelines and develop legislation that can

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 15 IN CONVERSATION: MARGOT WALLSTRöM “Rape must be rooted out…” Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in Conflict, Margot Wallström, visited Liberia in late May. In an exclusive interview with Editor Mathew Elavanalthoduka, she discusses her role and UN’s efforts in dealing with rape and other forms of sexual violence meted out to women and girls in conflict situations.

UN Focus: Madam SRSG, could you war but this was so exacerbated during the society deals with it. How can we better please explain briefly the purpose of years of armed conflict. And now, it has address this serious problem? your visit to Liberia? brutalized the society to such an extent that Margot Wallström: My new posi- it introduced new elements like gang rape You have been known to be involved tion as Special Representative of the UN and very violent forms of sexual violence in promoting issues relating to women Secretary-General on Sexual Violence in that did not previously exist in Liberia. We in peace and security ever since your Conflict has its roots in Security Council want to see how we can prevent this. But appointment to the European Com- Resolution 1325 in relation to Women, you can’t prevent what you don’t fully un- mission. Where does this passion come Peace and Security, giving women a role derstand. So we want to meet the survivors from? in peace processes but also looking at of sexual violence, also understand more I believe that without women we can- sexual violence against women as a secu- about the perpetrators, and analyse how not build sustainable peace. I think also, rity issue. As you know, reports are eve- rywhere about sexual violence and rape against women in many areas of conflict, and it does not seem to get better. In June 2008, Resolution 1820 recognized conflict- related sexual violence as a core security challenge and in September last year Resolution 1888 was passed, which called for the creation of this post. I want to make sure that we understand this phe- nomenon of sexual violence including in a country like Liberia, a post-conflict society. I have already visited the Democratic Republic of Congo. Armed conflict is still going on in the eastern part of DRC, but here in Liberia the most frequently reported serious crime is rape. Why is that? We know that many years of armed conflict and war brutalized the society, but how can we understand why rape is so rampant in the Liberian society today?

So your tour is to investigate the root cause of sexual violence in Liberia during the war and also the continuing sexual violence in post-conflict Liberia? We will not be able to investigate and state exactly what happened during the war, or before the war, which also is very interesting because a lot of people here say that there were many rapes before the

16 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 tions is just waking up to the reality Liberia, even after seven years since the of the seriousness of sexual violence in civil war came to an end. Does that con- conflict situations? found you? I think it means that the United Na- Yes, that is why we came to ask the “Rape must be rooted out…” question: why does rape persist long after tions admits that the issue of sexual vio- purely from a democratic point of view, lence in conflict situations has not been the guns have fallen silent?? Drugs, alco- you cannot exclude more than half of the properly addressed in the ten years since hol, unemployment, trauma -- there are population. Even in the European Union, Resolution 1325. I think the UN has real- many problems that make it complex. we make up more than half of the popula- ized that this has become a security policy tion but we are only represented at the de- issue, that women are on the frontline of There is this other side of sexual vio- cision making table at around 30 per cent many of the modern wars and armed con- lence: UN peacekeepers themselves be- and I don’t think that this is democratic, I flicts. We saw it of course in the DRC. In ing accused of perpetrating such abuses. think that it is counter-productive for any areas in the eastern part of the DRC, armed What is your take on this? Does that fall society. In African countries in particular, groups are hiding in the jungle. Women under your mandate too? women are the pillars of society, very of- have to go out into the field to bring water Not directly. But it will indirectly, be- ten they are also the breadwinners; they or firewood back to the house and they are cause it takes only one case and the whole take care of the children, fetch water, fetch often attacked, raped and killed. The Se- credibility of what the UN peacekeepers firewood and bear children. In order to curity Council has accepted that this has to are doing will be put into question. We rebuild and maintain peace, you have to give be placed on top of their political agenda. ally have to demonstrate our commitment women a voice. I am a strong promoter of to eradicate this. We can actually do more gender equality. I believe the whole of so- Do you think a lot more remains to be training and vetting before the peacekeep- ciety benefits, I think men also benefit. done to support the victims of sexual ers are deployed. We should also ensure violence in Liberia? that any such cases are immediately dealt Yours is a new position in the UN sys- We have identified gaps in how society with. tem. Does it mean that the United Na- I think we have to start by addressing the fact that so many children are raped. You don’t want to do this to your country because it will create lasting psychologi- cal scars and trauma. There has to be a clear signal that this is not the fault of women – the victims are not the criminals. can deliver and help survivors and so on Do you have a message to the people of but at the same time one has to recognize Liberia? and acknowledge what has already been Yes, of course, that rape must be rooted done. It is extremely important that there out. I think we have to start by addressing is political accountability and political re- the fact that so many children are raped. sponsibility. It means if the signal is strong You don’t want to do this to your coun- from the very top, and in this case from the try because it will create lasting psycho- President who herself has really spoken up logical scars and trauma. There has to be on this issue, then that helps a lot. There a clear signal that this is not the fault of are practical problems of lack of capacity women – the victims are not the criminals. in a very poor country that is still strug- A lot of people have mentioned “improper gling to rebuild everything. So I think it is dressing” as a cause of rape. We need to matter of capacity and implementation and reinforce that there is no excuse for sexual sometimes a lack of enforcement. I think a abuse. Women and girls have a right to lot has been done in investing in training their bodies and a right to decide how they and education and we have to look at what dress. I hope Liberian men and women, to- more can be done in terms of communica- gether, will participate in the campaign to tion to signal very clearly that rape is not stop rape, and stop rape now. cultural or sexual – it is criminal. Thank you so much for your time. As you noted, rape is still one of the most frequently committed serious crimes in

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 17 Battling Polio and Measles t’s daybreak in the Liberian capital Monrovia and the streets are bus- tling as residents go about their chores. However, for hundreds of health workers and parents, it’s a Ispecial day for child protection and sur- vival. At the Redemption Hospital, loud- speakers belt out jingles as crowds gather. “Don’t hide your children,” appeals a very enthusiastic Communication Officer An- gelina Tarr of the Ministry of Health, her voice reverberating all around as Liberia’s National Integrated Polio Measles vaccination campaign from 23 to 29 April kicks off, targeting 750,000 under-five children. At the national launch of the campaign at the hospital, mothers listen to health talks and get a chance to seek advice from professionals. “What if my child already has Measles, can he still take the vaccine?” asks one mother. “If my child recently took the vaccines, can she take them again?” enquires another. Dr. Zakari Wambai of the World Health Organization clarifies that children who recently took the vaccine can still take as a booster dose while a child with Measles can be vaccinated at a health facility under medical supervision. The medical officer reminds the gathering that the vaccination exercise is the second round of campaign against Polio. “Liberia is not the only country in the sub- region that is conducting this campaign. There are 12 other countries targeting the same age group,” he says, adding, “Last year alone, Liberia recorded 11 cases of Polio after over 10 years of being Polio- free. This year one case of Polio has been confirmed in early March in Bong County. So we are not out of the woods yet. No country is truly Polio-free until all coun-

18 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 tries are Polio-free. By the same token, no days, and describes their efforts and hard dio that has a nationwide coverage and of- child can be Polio-free until all children of work as “vital to vaccinating every child ten uses its helicopters to airlift campaign the world are Polio-free, and the only way below 5 years to eradicate measles and materials and personnel to far-flung areas. they can be Polio-free is by being vacci- polio out of Liberia.” To support the cam- “We encourage parents to take Mea- nated.” As for Measles, Liberia is current- paign, UNICEF provides technical and fi- sles vaccine in health facilities as it rely experiencing an outbreak of the child- nancial support for communications, and quires professional attention, but Polio hood killer disease. From December last supply more than 900,000 doses of Polio can be given during the house to house year to early May this year, more than 700 vaccine and 640,000 doses of the Measles campaign,” says Liberia’s Chief Medical children, mostly in Montserrado County, vaccine in addition Vitamin A tablets and Officer Dr. Bernice Dahn. Routine vac- have been diagnosed with the disease, and Mebendazole. The World Health Organi- cination will continue in health facilities some adults who were never vaccinated or zation provides technical support as well after the synchronized Polio eradication never contracted the disease before, have as funds for logistics, monitoring, trans- campaign from 28 May – 1 June and the fi- also been infected. portation and allowances for vaccination nal round scheduled for 25 - 29 June 2010. With Dr. Wambai and Ministry of teams. UN Mission in Liberia supports Health officials clearing all doubts and the campaign through sensitization pro- SM stressing the importance of vaccination grammes and jingles on the mission’s ra- and that Polio is not as a result of witch- craft, the mothers are happy to have their A young child is administered the polio vaccine children vaccinated. “I am very happy today. I know the vaccine is going to protect my child against Polio, against paralysis,” says 31-year-old Lucy Johnson, beaming with smiles as her tender three-day-old baby girl receives the oral Polio vaccine. “I am feeling fine, very fine that my first baby has received the vaccines which are free,” says elated 22-year-old Umu Jal- loh as health workers go from house to house to vaccinate children against Polio, give them Vitamin A and provide them de-worming tablets. The campaign also goes on simultaneously in health clinics and hospitals, and temporary sites. The Polio vaccine targets every new born to 59 months; Measles vaccine, which is administered at health centres, targets every child aged 6 months to 59 months; the Vi- tamin A is for every child aged 6 months to 59 months while de-worming medicine is for every child aged 12 months to 59 months. While worms can cause anaemia and ill health, Polio is a dangerous disease that can cripple or kill and can spread very fast, especially among children, according to health experts. Measles can cause malnu- trition, poor mental development, hearing and visual impairments as well as death, and Vitamin A deficiency can cause blind- ness but Vitamin A medicine helps children to resist illness, protect their eyesight and reduce the risk of death. UNICEF Representative Isabel Crow- ley commends the 4,000 vaccinators, su- pervisors and community volunteers as they go out to villages and towns for seven

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 19 Better future for girls, farmers

lthough Liberia heavily of Agriculture is providing extension serv- one year, P4P has trained 200 smallholder relies on the importation ices and policy guidance. FAO and WFP farmers, including 160 women and 40 men of rice, its staple food, lo- are also helping to rehabilitate swamps for in post-harvest processing of rice; con- cally produced rice is be- cultivation. structed a warehouse for the Dokodan Co- ing distributed for the first “For the first time, we are getting re- operative and installed a rubbhall for In- Atime as take-home food to girls under the ward for our efforts and we are very happy tofawor cooperative in Lofa, and donated school feeding programme of the Ministry about it. Even President Sirleaf has visited one rice milling machine each to the two of Education. and commended us,” says a very proud cooperatives in addition to threshers, win- In many Liberian homes, poverty pre- Moses N. Phillips, Chairman of the Doko- nowers and parboiling machines. P4P has vents girls from going to school but the dan Farmers Cooperative in Nimba Coun- also donated generators and warehouse distribution of food in public and commu- ty. P4P initiative is a pilot programme that equipment such as measuring scales, pal- nity primary schools where the gender gap is being implemented by WFP worldwide lets, empty bags and stitching machines is 15 per cent or more, serves as an incen- in 21 countries, mostly in Africa but a few and conducted training for cooperative tive for families to keep girls in school. countries in Asia and Latin America as leaders in management and computer- Each girl in grades 4 to 6 who attends at well. The initiative was launched in Libe- based accounting systems. Furthermore, least 80 per cent of total school days in ria in March 2009 and is being implement- it has provided one desktop computer a month is given 25 kg of rice plus other ed in Lofa, Nimba and Bong counties. each to Intofawor and Dokodan coop- condiments every month. “We are increasing the capacity of eratives. Recently, the initiative procured While the distribution of rice to girls farmers to produce more,” notes P4P Pro- four semi-rice milling plants for donation

Some beneficiaries of the P4P initiative While the distribution of rice to girls is encouraging them to stay in school and giving them hope of a brighter future, Li- berian farmers who usually struggle to sell their surplus rice are equally elated that Purchase for Pogress (P4P) is benefiting them as they are offered an attractive price. is encouraging them to stay in school and gramme Manager Lansana Wonneh. He giving them hope of a brighter future, Li- explains that P4P intends to go over the berian farmers who usually struggle to sell market bottleneck and place demand right their surplus rice are equally elated that at the door of farmers so that they can ac- Purchase for Progress (P4P) is benefit- cess markets. Payment for rice is done in ing them as they are offered an attractive partnership with a local bank, Ministry of price. The rice is purchased from local Agriculture and the UN Mission in Libe- smallholder farmers under the P4P initia- ria. Apart from the payment for each bag tive, a local procurement scheme through of paddy rice, WFP also pays the con- which the World Food Programme (WFP) tracted cooperatives for support services, partners with the Ministry of Agriculture, including collection, handling, parboiling UN agencies and others. FAO is providing and bagging. seeds and fertilizers to the farmers, UNDP Added to building markets, the initia- is constructing warehouses and roads link- tive is also involved in capacity building ing farmers to markets, and the Ministry through series of training. Over the past

20 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 A warehouse for rice to selected cooperatives in Lofa, Bong ing and drying rice. “We were trained by will be gradually expanded to other coun- and Nimba. “Before now our cooperative P4P to parboil rice. Before, we used to ties, buys only rice but the programme is was not together but thanks to P4P we are do it but not properly,” admits Veronica also encouraging farmers to grow other very organized now and we are benefiting Diggs. The mother of five says by belong- crops such as beans. a lot,” says Chairman Phillips, who now ing to the cooperative, she can now help The Liberia pilot for P4P was made knows how to use a computer as a result her husband take care of the home and pay possible through funding from the Howard of P4P support. their children’s school fees. “We should all G. Buffett Foundation. The Governments In May this year, the women of the go back to soil and stop hunger. The soil of Germany, Japan, and Switzerland fund- Dokodan Cooperative were busy parboil- is a bank,” she says. For now, P4P, which ed the first phase of the procurement targeting 400 metric tons in 2009 but farm- Some beneficiaries of the P4P initiative ers were able to produce more than 50 per cent of the target. In the ongoing second year of procurement from March 2010 to March 2011, USAID has provided the initial funding targeting at least 1,000 metric tons of cleaned rice. From two cooperatives in the first year, seven cooperatives have been contracted in the second year, including four women-only groups. As P4P continues to support girls to stay in school and farmers to grow more and address poverty, Wonneh says they are sure to exceed their target this year. “All of what we get will be distributed to schools,” says the programme manager, optimistic that in years to come, Liberia will not only produce enough food to feed the population but will actually export as well.

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 21 Moustapha Soumaré addresses the summit on Aid Effectiveness Maximizing Aid for Development iberia is one of the most goods and services leaving paltry amounts policies and guidelines which will facili- aid-dependent countries in for intended goals of programmes and tate a genuine way forward.” Six years Africa with about half of its projects. Organized by the Government ago, the Liberian leader says most aid funds coming from exter- of Liberia and partners, the two-day sum- to Liberia was in the form of emergency nal donors. But how can the mit brought together donors, non-govern- humanitarian assistance, which was a re- LGovernment of Liberia and its develop- mental organizations and civil society to sponse to Liberia’s immediate need for ment partners maximize aid for growth broaden the policy dialogue on aid effec- the most basic of necessities. “Today, we and development? This was the focus of a tiveness and NGO coordination. are on an ambitious path to long-term sus- High-Level Summit on Aid Effectiveness Liberian President Ellen Johnson tainable development,” she says, pointing in the Liberian capital Monrovia in April Sirleaf says the summit represents a time out that the shift in Liberia’s needs must with the theme: “Maximizing High Qual- to harness and take stock of opportunities be accompanied by a change in the way ity Aid for Growth and Development”. and potentials that will ensure greater ef- the Government and its development Although Liberia continues to enjoy a ficiency. “The hope is that we will engage partners conceptualize aid and its man- lot of international goodwill, some Libe- in constructive dialogue in order to foster agement. President Sirleaf acknowledges rian Government officials express concern genuine partnership with all actors in the that despite progress made by the Govern- that large chunks of donor resources to aid architecture in order to achieve our ment in the aid dialogue with sector line the post-war nation are spent on imported development goals by establishing clear ministries, civil society and development

22 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 partners on aid management, “efforts have tion, and the attainment of the Millennium pipe so we can know where there are leak- been undermined by capacity gaps as well Development Goals, lifting poor people ages.” as unclear articulation of policies, proce- out of poverty in a sustainable way. “As Liberians say donors sometimes dures, roles and responsibilities.” the United Nations in Liberia works to- project their own agenda at the expense of Added to the contribution of United wards “One UN” this is certainly the op- government ownership. But while stress- Nations peacekeepers to the restoration portune time to discuss how to maximize ing that aid “is about the country’s interest of peace, various UN agencies, funds and aid delivery for growth and development.” and development”, Ohene Owusu Nyanin programmes continue to support Liberia’s As Liberia is likely to remain depend- of the World Bank maintains that “owner- recovery and development efforts. The ent on aid in the medium-term, ensuring ship without capacity is a hoax.” For her UN Deputy Special Representative for that aid is used effectively is critical. The part, Pamela White of USAID attributes Recovery and Governance, Moustapha Government has also invoked the 2005 “ego” by donor organizations as one of the Soumaré commended the Government for Paris Declaration on Aid Effectiveness main problems of aid effectiveness. The seeking ownership over the coordination as its guiding principle which includes: question of whether the donor community of aid delivery and described the Summit Ownership, Alignment, Harmonization, itself is coordinated was also discussed. as “further evidence of the Government’s Managing for Development Results, and But should Liberia continue to receive drive to lift Liberia onto a path of sustain- Mutual Accountability. “Liberia is going aid? Notwithstanding shortcomings, there able, long-term development.” The deputy through a transition process,” says Minis- was a general consensus among partici- UN envoy said despite improvements ter of Planning and Economic Affairs Am- pants that aid has played a crucial role in

A wide range of participants took part in the summit in domestic revenue in Liberia, “public ara Konneh. Between 2003–2008, Konneh Liberia’s progress over the years, and will spending faces challenges by regional observes that Liberia experienced an aid continue to do so in years to come. How- and international standards, and Liberia boom. “We received a lot of aid during ever, to maximize aid for growth and de- remains highly aid dependent.” He points this period but we don’t want to wait when velopment, donors and the Liberian Gov- out that three benchmarks should define there is significant decline before we start ernment signed a communiqué reaffirming the effective use of aid in the Liberian con- talking to each other. We have been talk- principles and commitment as the way text: supporting implementation of Libe- ing but we have not focused our attention forward for aid effectiveness with the ul- ria’s Poverty Reduction Strategy 2008-11; on the five principles of the Paris Declara- timate aim of ensuring that Liberians live strengthening Liberian institutions, so that tion,” he says, admitting that the aid pipe prosperous lives, free of the burden of pov- they may continue to lead and own Libe- is not perfect and it is important to identify erty. ria’s development agenda; and delivering where problems are to clear them before the national programmes that will support getting clogged. “The two-day dialogue is SM the consolidation of peace and reconstruc- to begin the process of putting water in the

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 23 The transfer of ownership ceremony in Monrovia UNHCR Transfers Assets ozens of vehicles, motor transfer of ownership ceremony in May in have scaled down. The hand-over ceremo- bikes, generators, comput- the Liberian capital, Monrovia, UNHCR ny was an occasion to express gratitude to ers and other information Representative Ibrahima Coly urged the their partners for the good collaboration technology equipment, partners to take good care of the assets. over the years and to give them the assets which were once the prop- From the signing of the documents, as- they had been using which were still in Derty of the United Nations High Commis- sets which the various partners had been good condition to strengthen their ability sioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Liberia, using effectively became their own while to continue their humanitarian non-profit are now the assets of their implementing only maintaining “Donated by UNHCR” work consistent with the objectives and and collaborating partners. identification. mandate of the refugee agency. “Humani- Instead of selling them, the UN refu- Since 2003, the UN refugee agency tarian work is not just an emergency. Ef- gee agency has handed over 23 light ve- has been working with dozens of partners fective today, the things you have in your hicles, three trucks, 33 motorcycles, sev- but the relationship with some of them possession are now yours to enable you as- en generators, 19 air conditioners, 81 IT ceased with the end of projects. Coly says sist people in need. We have enjoyed our equipment and other items much to the during the emergency phase UNHCR had collaboration with you and I would like delight of partners in Montsserado, Nimba a big capacity in terms of human resources to thank you very much,” said Coly. The and Maryland counties. At the symbolic and logistics, but noted that operations agreement with the partners relinquishes

24 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 as we continue the protection of refugees use of the donated light vehicle and the and other people of concern,” said Ex- three trucks previously received, for trans- ecutive Director Counsellor Wheatonia Y. porting refugees. He said the donation will Dixon Barnes. “These assets can assist us be used exclusively to support Liberia’s to efficiently carryout our mandate.” school feeding programme. “Thank you UNHCR works very closely with the for increasing the capacity of the Ministry Bureau of Immigration and Naturaliza- of Education. We are receiving this donation. “We are the first point of entrance and tion so that we can support the Ministry.” the last point of departure. We very much Although not an implementing partner, appreciate the assistance of motorcycles the School of the Blind received a light ve- from UNHCR,” said the Bureau’s Director hicle from the UN agency. A visually im- of Administration, Col. Danny B. Sartee. paired principal said the vehicle has been James K. Morlu, Manager of Star Ra- vital in meeting their transportation needs. dio, said the station’s correspondents all “We are more than grateful. Before now over Liberia are constrained to cover their we had a lot of hindrances,” said Anthony areas of responsibility as a result of the Dangan.

Although not an implementing partner, the National Resource Institute for the Blind located along the Robertsfield highway received a light vehicle as it is in the agency’s local integration area. A visually impaired principal said the vehicle has been vital in meeting their transportation needs.

lack of transportation. He expressed pro- At the moment, the UNHCR works found gratitude for the UNHCR’s assist- with 13 partners for various projects and ance and assured that they will be prudent have assets which remain the property of users of the donation. “The three motor- the refugee agency. Some of the agency’s bikes we have received today will be given current activities include local integra- to three of our county correspondents. But tion, implementing rule of law projects, we still need more support,” he appealed. increasing public awareness for and assist- The transfer of ownership ceremony in Monrovia Perhaps, a unique recipient of the lar- ing the voluntary return of some 64,000 gesse was a collaborating sister UN agen- Liberian refugees in asylum countries, cy, the World Food Programme. Deputy in addition to handling refugees of other Country Director Taban Lokonga lauded nationals such as Ivorians, Somalis, Suda- the agency for the support they have re- nese and an Iraqi. ceived and expressed the hope that there UNHCR Transfers Assets will be no more situations warranting the SM

the refugee agency’s right to the assets and will not be therefore responsible for insur- ance, licenses, levies and taxes, as well as fitness. The Ministry of Gender and Develop- ment, the Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC), World Food Programme, Bureau of Im- migration and Naturalization, EQUIP Li- beria, MERCI, and Star Radio, are some of the beneficiaries of the assets. The LRRRC received five light vehicles and seven motorcycles, 17 IT equipment and three generators. “We are very grateful for this assistance which will go a long way in addressing the needs of the Commission

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 25 Liberia Prepares for 1325 Anniversary

ome October, the world will ferences in Belfast, Northern Ireland and “Three Ps” of Resolution 1325, increas- be marking the tenth an- Dili, Timor-Leste. “Our purpose here to- ing women’s participation, and encourag- niversary of UN Security day is to continue the process of bring- ing the protection of women in conflict Council Resolution 1325 ing together women from post-conflict and post-conflict situation. “Our focus is on Women, Peace and Se- situations to develop a unified message on to examine the third “P” – “Gender Per- curity.C Liberia began preparations for the 1325, to be presented to the United Na- spectives” – and how best to incorporate landmark celebration by hosting in April tions as it observes the tenth anniversary, a gender perspective in peacemaking, an international conference in the Liberian in October, of the adoption of that historic peacekeeping and peacebuilding,” noted capital Monrovia on the Resolution with resolution,” said President Sirleaf. the Liberian leader, pointing out that dur- the theme: Gender Perspectives. Expresssing concern that civilians, ing the civil war, women bore the brunt of Organised in partnership between the particularly women and children account- inhumanity and terror as they were con- Liberian Ministry of Gender and Devel- ed for the vast majority of those adverse- scripted into war, gang-raped at will and opment and the Conflict Resolution Unit ly affected by armed conflict, the main forced into domestic slavery. “Yet, it was of the Department of Foreign Affairs of thrust of the Resolution is to ensure that the women who laboured and advocated Ireland, the four-day conference attracted the needs and concerns of women and girls for peace throughout our region,” she participants from Ireland and Timor-Leste, are taken into full consideration and that pointed out. as well as representatives of the United they benefit fully from peacekeeping and Liberia launched its National Action Nations family and partners in Liberia. peacebuilding processes in post-conflict Plan for implementing Resolution 1325, “Liberia was in the throes of a vicious situations. Key among the expectations of becoming the first African country to do civil war when the Security Council unan- the Resolution is the increased represen- so, at last year’s International Colloquium imously adopted Resolution 1325 on Oc- tation of women at all decision-making on Women’s Empowerment, Leader- tober 31, 2000,” said President Ellen John- levels in national, regional and interna- ship Development, International Peace son Sirleaf in a message to the conference tional institutions and mechanisms for the and Security, which President Sirleaf co- that was read by Minister of Justice Chris- prevention, management and resolution of convened with President Tarja Halonen of tiana Tah. The conference is the third in conflicts. Finland in Monrovia. Since 2006, the Li- the series of Cross-Learning Initiatives on Previous conferences in the Cross- berian Government has made it a priority the Resolution after previous 2009 con- Learning series focused on aspects of the to increase the number of women serving

26 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 Although Liberia has come far in addressing Women, Peace and Security issues since 2003, there are many factors that undermine the country’s ability to ensure that the objectives of 1325 are effectively and comprehensively realised. “High incidences of Gender Based Vio- lence; capacity challenges of legal and judicial systems; insufficient infrastructure and lack of reliable data warn us that there is still a long way to go before meeting our goals,” said Soumaré. Baroness Nuala O’Loan, Ireland’s Special Envoy for UNSCR 1325, reiterated her country’s commitment to work with Liberia and Timor Leste, and described the achievement of women in both post-conflict countries as “legendary”. Liberian women have made tremen- dous progress since the end of the civil war with some of them today playing key leadership roles as ministers, legislators and Participants at the conference in Monrovia senior government officials. Liberia has also made history by electing Africa’s first female president. For its part, the United Nations Mission has a clearly defined mandate to implement Resolution 1325, and its Liberia Prepares for 1325 Anniversary Office of the Gender Advisor ensures that the mandate is actively pursued. in security forces. UNMIL has been giving Echoing the significance of the tenth As Liberia gets set to celebrate the technical support to the Liberia National anniversary of Resolution 1325, Deputy tenth anniversary of the landmark UN res- Police (LNP) to intensify recruitment of Special Representative for Recovery and olution, Gender and Development Minister women and the number of women serv- Governance Moustapha Soumaré said the Varbah Gayflor says that Liberian women ing in the police force has risen from 4 to occasion will be “the most auspicious mo- should not brood over the past. “We should 15 per cent. The LNP has established 46 ment for reflecting upon how far we have begin to celebrate our successes -- more women’s and children’s support units at come with the Resolution’s implementa- than ever before, Liberia is ready to move police stations across the country in an ef- tion, the challenges we have faced, and forward.” fort to stopping the culture of impunity for how to ensure the full achievement of the violence against women. objectives.” SM

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 27 Pakbatt-12 commander, Maj. Yamin receives inventory document from outgoing Banbatt-16 commander, Lt.-Col. Iqbal Bangladeshi peacekeepers leave their mark

angladeshi peacekeep- the UN Mission in Liberia’s current third Bong County’s Superintendent Ran- ers of the BANBATT-16 phased drawdown process, BANBATT-16 ney Jackson commended the departing contingent, which over- will not be replaced. Likewise, a number infantry battalion of the Bangladeshi saw the security of Bong of other Bangladeshi contingents will be peacekeepers for the exemplary work dur- County (Sector-B), of- significantly reduced including the Signal ing their one year stay in the county. “Dur- ficiallyB handed over to a company-size and Logistics contingents (BANSIG-7, ing their tour of duty here,” Jackson said, Pakistani contingent recently. In line with BANLOG-7) and BANBATT-18. “BANBATT-16 went beyond the call of

28 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 During their one year tour of duty and Bangla-Bong Agro Farm project was in- with 808 peacekeepers of all ranks, BAN- tended to inspire the county’s youth, es- BATT-16 manned five military camps pecially ex-combatants, not to engage spread around the county including Camp themselves in crimes but rather involve Milton, CARI Complex (Sector Reserve), themselves in productive ventures. The Camp Weisue, Camp Phebe, as well as Ideal Village project, a project which cov- two camps based at its Administrative ers 150 acres and comprises a school and Headquarters near the county’s capital, community-based farms, a fish pond and Gbarnga. 5,000 fingerlings, and a poultry farm with Before turning over the signed docu- chickens, ducks and goats, is a demonstra- ments containing inventory on the lo- tion on how local villages can produce all gistics and fixed assets to the incoming its own food and be self-sufficient in ad- PAKBATT-12 Commanding Officer, the dition to encouraging backyard gardening. outgoing Commanding Officer, Lt.-Col. The YDPA agricultural project, inspired Tanveer Iqbal, on behalf of his troops, ex- by the success of the Bangla-Bong Agro pressed immense pleasure to have been a Farm, mobilized more than 100 residents part of UNMIL trying to consolidate peace including widows, war affected youths in Liberia. “Over the last year, my contin- and physically challenged persons, among gent has performed its assigned task with others, to organize themselves to invest in commitment and diligence. Besides, we the soil. have been involved in a number of civil- Prince Simpson, the head of the YDPA ian-military (CIMIC) activities which I group, recently reported a bumper rice think the citizens appreciate highly. I must harvest from the 50-acre farm. He said thank the Mission for the opportunity to they had harvested 1,200 kilograms of rice serve,” he said. and is determined to expand the farm and Maj. Mohammad Yamin, PAKBATT- produce beans and vegetables as well. 12’s Company Commander thanked Lt.- Mark Dowee, the head of the Bangla- Col. Iqbal for his able leadership and Bong Agro Farm, could not hide his feel- praised the work of the departing Bangla- ings about the departure of BANBATT-16 deshi peacekeepers. He noted that it would who he termed his “very good friends”. be an immense challenge for his company- “With the departure of BANBATT-16, we sized contingent to oversee security in the don’t think we’ll ever get any contingent county previously manned by a battalion. that can replace them. They rendered us “However, with guidance from Sector-B immeasurable assistance and imparted to Commander, my Commanding Officer us skills that have redirected our orienta- and the cooperation of all, I’ll try to meet tion in life. They did extremely well for the expectation of the UN and what is re- us,” Dowee noted. Along with his col- quired to maintain the peace and security leagues, Dowee has begun establishing in the county,” Maj. Yamin said. similar model farms in other districts The Bangladeshi peacekeepers have across the county. left an indelible imprint on the minds of Lt.-Col. Iqbal leaves the Mission with Bangladeshi peacekeepers the residents of Bong County. Apart from fond memories. “The fond memories we their assigned operational activities, the go back with are not only that we main- contingent was involved in the capac- tained and enhanced peace but we also did ity and confidence building of the locals something to enhance the capacity of the under civilian-military cooperation. The locals in our attempt to make them self- Bangla-Bong Agro Farm along the Gbarn- sufficient and self-supporting.” On a sad leave their mark ga-Zorzor highway, the Ideal Village note, the Commander said he came to the project near Camp Milton in Maimu and UN Mission with 808 peacekeepers of all duty. Besides providing the central Libe- the Youth for Development and Progres- ranks under his command but unfortu- rian county with maximum security as per sive Action (YDPA) agricultural project nately one (Emdadul Haque) succumbed their mandate, they provided assistance to in Gbarnga are three projects they were to death while four others were repatriated the communities in the areas of agricul- heavily involved with. home on medical grounds. ture, health and skills training, which is Speaking about the essence of the much appreciated by the residents of Bong projects, the outgoing BANBATT-16 JWW County.” Commander reiterated that the 25-acre

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 29 Liberians Speak Rumours spread fast in Liberia: What Should We Do To Change the Mindset?

Davies Freeman (Security Guard) “It Prince Dargo (Trader) “People should would be preferable that people say things change their habits about the spread of that they are sure of. There is also a need for rumours especially if they are not verified people in the various communities to ad- because rumours can lead to the destruc- vise others not to spread information that tion of lives and property.” they are not sure of. With this, I think we can reduce the spread of rumors and change the mindset.”

William Koffa (Trader) “It is very important that rumours are verified to ascertain the truth before spreading them. If rumours are not verified and the facts obtained, one could just exacerbate an already bad situation.”

Erasmus Kantan (Driver) “Frankly, rumour is not good for any country because if those rumours are false, it could bring about Adolphus Konah ( High School graduate) problems within communities. Therefore “Rumour brings about conflict either in a it’s important that people check out the nation or in a home if it is not verified and facts regarding any information they hear certified as a fact. As such those spreading before deciding to spread the information rumours should be counselled so as to pre- to the third or fourth party because it could vent them from such acts which can cause help or hinder any situation.” severe consequences.”

30 • UN FOCUS • March - May 2010 Liberians Speak Rumours spread fast in Liberia: What Should We Do To Change the Mindset?

Emmanuel Tarka (Car Washer) “Rumours Joseph A. Taye (Driver) “It’s important spread hatred and bring conflict. As such, I that we are honest to one another and would suggest that people be patient, take stop backbiting. Rumour is always dan- their time to do thorough investigation to gerous in any community as it can create ascertain the facts about the rumour before panic and fear among the citizenry. It’s taking an action. This is very important for important that we are absolutely sure of the stability of the country.” information before we tell others.”

Monica Merrian (Security Guard) “You spread minimum rumours if you mind your business and keep yourself busy. There is a saying that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. So if you engage in meaningful ventures, there will be no time to engage in rumour mongering. So my advice is to keep yourself busy, either with your work, school or whatever you choose to engage in.” Saylee Johnson (Fuel Attendant) “Though most “chechepolay” (gossip or Agatha Doe (Security Guard) “Liberians rumour) as we call it in Liberia, could have really exaggerate on things, especially ru- some element of truth, it is important that mours even if they do not know the facts we Liberians cross-check every informa- and circumstances concerning the infor- tion before taking action because it could mation they receive from other second affect a person or even the larger soci- or third-hand sources. It is important that ety. You could damage someone’s life by we stop exaggerating the information that the wild rumours or destroy property. To we receive but try as much as possible to change the mindset, we have to be very verify it making sure that we gather the careful with what we say. Rumour is bad facts and when we’re disseminating the in- but if one must engage in “chechepolay”, formation, we should not add or subtract.” please spread the good one.”

March - May 2010 • UN FOCUS • 31 UN FOCUS, Vol. 6, No. 03 A publication of the United Nations Mission in Liberia Public Information Office www.unmil.org