Vol. 9, No.UN 01 FOCUS September - November 2012
“Helping Bring Peace…” ‘Operation Restore Hope’ Bids to Regain Community trust New Push to Combat Sexual Abuse of Children Message from the Special Representative of the Secretary-General
a phased reduction in UNMIL’s elections since the end of the civil military strength by some 4,200 conflict have helped Liberians personnel through July 2015 at the choose their leaders through end of which some 3,750 military ballots, and not through the barrel personnel and over 1,750 police will of a gun. Participatory democracy remain in Liberia, with a reduction is taking firm root in the nation and of less than 2,000 over the first Liberia is treading on a steady path year. At the same time, the Council to durable peace. That momentum also approved an increase of three must continue to be maintained, Formed Police Units comprising and Liberia deserves our support to 420 personnel, raising the ceiling of solidify the gains made so far. UN Police in the country to almost Still, various challenges to 1,800. progress and development in Liberia To be clear, UNMIL is not leaving remain. Instability in southwestern Liberia anytime soon. We have been Côte d’Ivoire is a major concern, partners in Liberia’s quest for peace requiring additional resources to since 2003, and will continue to stand ensure border security. UNMIL by the people and Government even and ONUCI, our sister Mission in as the Mission gradually transitions. Côte d’Ivoire, have enhanced our n September, I briefed the The proposed decrease of UNMIL’s mutual cooperation and are working Security Council on the military strength is predicated on hand-in-hand with both of our host Secretary-General’s progress Liberia’s ability, especially that of the governments not only to enhance report on Liberia. I highlighted country’s security agencies such as security along the common border the importance of national the Liberia National Police (LNP), to but also to foster stability and Ireconciliation and structural protect Liberians and progressively strengthen state authority in the changes to address the underlying take over the Mission’s security region. causes of past conflict, and the need role. The UN Police will be actively As UNMIL gradually transitions to continue to strengthen Liberia’s mentoring and training Liberia’s law over the years, we will continue to security sector. I also stressed enforcement agencies in the coming draw on the full technical capacities the need for the international years. of the entire UN family in Liberia community to continue supporting That Liberia is viewed as a in the spirit of “Delivering as One” the country in areas crucial to lasting country now in need of fewer to enhance the impact of our peace. uniformed peacekeepers is a sure support. Security will always remain As you know, the Security sign of progress. The country top priority, for without genuine, Council extended the mandate of has sustained unbroken peace home-grown peace there can be the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) throughout the past nine years. Two no meaningful economic and social for another year. It also authorized successfully conducted democratic development.
Karin Landgren Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Coordinator of United Nations Operations in Liberia
2 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 IN THIS ISSUE 4. “Helping Bring Peace…” 6. Liberia National Police is Progressing: Police Adviser 8. ‘Operation Restore Hope’ Bids to Regain Community Trust 10. “I am a GIRL, Not A WIFE…” 12. New Push to Combat Sexual Abuse of Children 14. One-Stop-Shop for SGBV Survivors 16. “Separated” Refugee Bags 4.“Helping Bring Peace…” University Degree After shepherding Liberia’s peace process since October 2003 and with Liberia 18. UN Flights Help Thousands of Returning Refugees sustaining unbroken peace all along, the UN peacekeeping mission in Liberia plans to reduce some of its military strength in three phases lasting till 2015 when 20. Refugee Camps Consolidated the country will still host a significant number of peacekeepers. 22. New Programming to Boost Agriculture 24. Rural Women Embrace Family Planning 30. Liberians Speak
Chief of Public Information Isabelle Abric
Editor and Head of Publications Mathew Elavanalthoduka
Staff Writers 8. ‘Operation Restore Hope’ Bids to Regain Community Trust Ruby Ofori Vanessa Curney Exhibiting their increasing operational capabilities, Liberia National Police and its James S. King Emergency Response Unit as well as the Armed Forces come together in “Operation Restore Hope” aimed at protecting the country’s border with Côte d’Ivoire. Design and Graphics Paddy Defoxy Ilos, II Thomas S. Blidi
Photos Staton Winter Emmanuel Tobey
Published by the Public Information Office, United Nations Mission in Liberia
[email protected] www.unmil.unmissions.org www.facebook.com/unmil2003 12. New Push to Combat Sexual Abuse of Children www.twitter.com/unmilnews www.youtube.com/unmiltv With rampant child rape and sexual violence in Liberia, strident voices are now www.flickr.com/unmil being raised against an entrenched culture of silence among Liberian families over incidents involving sexual abuse of children. Printed by Buck Press Ltd., Accra, Ghana
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 3 UN peacekeepers first deployed in Liberia in October 2003 “Helping Bring Peace…”
By Mathew Elavanalthoduka destroyed. Several thousand troops through 2010 brought down the people were killed and a third of combined military and police strength wide-eyed 12th grade the population displaced. Since the to less than 9,000. student, Christine deployment of UN peacekeepers in The second national elections too Goethen, was among October 2003 that brought an end concluded peacefully in late 2011. And hundreds of school to the civil conflict, Liberia has been now into the tenth year of operations, children in Monrovia, treading steadily on the path to UNMIL has been authorized by the ALiberia’s capital, participating in this durable peace for the past nine years. UN Security Council in September to year’s UN Day celebrations on 24 Today ballots -- not bullets -- are the further reduce its military strength by October. Asked about her presence, choice of the tiny West African country some 4,200 peacekeepers -- in three she said: “I am here because I want to once stigmatized as a “failed” nation. phases until 2015. Simultaneously, thank the UN for helping bring peace Among the largest peacekeeping there will be an increase of three and helping us to go to school.” missions in the world at one point, the Formed Police Units comprising 420 Not too long ago going to school UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) had personnel. By the end of this transition was not an option for a generation over 15,000 peacekeepers and more phase in 2015, around 3,750 military of Liberian children. The protracted than 1,100 police at its peak. With personnel and over 1,750 police will civil war that began in 1989 and lasted Liberia’s first democratically elected still remain in Liberia. until 2003 shattered the nation with post-war government inaugurated in The reduction in peacekeepers is most schools and other infrastructure early 2006, a phased-out reduction in predicated on the capacity of national
4 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 the transition roadmap against various 2010, that number exceeded 200,000. challenges, particularly the nascent The sporadic security incidents in capabilities of the country’s law Côte d’Ivoire pose a significant border enforcement and security agencies. security challenge for Liberia. During As security is the predominant one such incident in June, seven concern in Liberia, as typical of any peacekeepers from Niger working for society that has suffered appalling ONUCI, our sister mission in Côte trauma, the importance of law d’Ivoire, lost their lives. UNMIL and enforcement comes to the fore. The ONUCI have strengthened mutual surge in the number of UN Police, cooperation and are assisting both while reducing the military strength, governments to enhance border comes as a result of the critical need security. for the Liberia National Police to shape Amidst all this, Liberia is decidedly up into a professional and competent on the path to peace. The country is institution that can ensure security of involved in a number of initiatives in the population. Liberia’s Justice sector collaboration with the Peacebuilding too needs to make significant progress Commission. One importance of such to entrench rule of law in a society torn an initiative is the concept of regional
“The Mission is working closely with the Liberian National Police, the Bureau of Immigration and Naturalization, and UN peacekeepers first deployed in Liberia in October 2003 other security agencies to ensure that they have sufficient capacity to assume full responsibility “Helping Bring Peace…” for Liberia’s security.” - Karin Landgren authorities to take responsibility for the country’s security. “The Mission is working closely with the Liberian National Police, the Bureau apart not too long ago. justice and security hubs spread of Immigration and Naturalization, Amidst other challenges, Liberia across the country. One of the five and other security agencies to ensure ought to create employment, especially planned hubs is soon to be functional that they have sufficient capacity to for the youth, and bring about genuine in Gbarnga, Bong County. These hubs assume full responsibility for Liberia’s reconciliation among the population. bring together police, courts and security,” says Karin Landgren, Special The unacceptably high rate of violence other related agencies in one place to Representative of the Secretary- against women, including rape, provide citizens improved access to General and Head of UNMIL. While predominantly of minors, remains a justice and security services. praising Liberia’s progress towards huge blot on the Liberian society. [See Bringing peace to Liberia and peace and democracy, the UN Envoy story: Page 12] helping children go to school, as is quick to stress that the country’s There are also challenges that are student Goethen narrated, are among security and stability still remain “top not of Liberia’s own making. More the dreams UNMIL peacekeepers have priority” for the Mission. than 65,000 Ivorian refugees, driven helped fulfill over the past nine years. A joint Transition Planning out by the post-election violence in The peacekeepers will have to leave Working Group comprising UNMIL neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire, are still one day but those dreams will still and the Government is looking into graciously hosted by its neighbour. In need to be nourished and protected.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 5 Orler with UNPOL and Liberian security officials Liberia National Police is Progressing:
security functions will be gradual, and commensurate with national capacities Police Adviser on the ground. Orler is responsible for UN police officers assigned in 19 UN By Ruby Ofori the Liberian Bureau of Immigration missions around the world. and Naturalization (BIN) to reform Police Adviser Orler was pleased uring her recent visit to and to rebuild their service. Yet, to note that the LNP had and will Liberia, UN Department despite the considerable progress and continue to have successes in of Peacekeeping commitment, much remains to be recruiting more female officers into Operations Police done to raise the standards of Liberia’s the service. Currently over 18 per cent Adviser Ann Marie law enforcement agencies. of the LNP are female. This figure, said DOrler was quick to note a marked Although UNMIL is transitioning, the Police Adviser, is actually higher improvement in the professionalism Orler pointed out that the number than the female representation in UN of the Liberia National Police (LNP) of UNPOL advisers supporting the Police in general. since her last visit in 2008. Orler also development of LNP and BIN will Orler joined a night patrol with the noted a renewed commitment by not be reduced. The handing over of LNP during her visit. She noticed that
6 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 allowing for the national security extensive use of outreach programmes. institutions in Liberia to gain their However, she noted that fundamental capacities and proficiencies to take to this is the importance of education. on their new roles. “The LNP and “It’s important that girls in Liberia others must be ready before we leave. go to school and finish school,” she We will leave when we are ready to stressed. leave,” Orler pointed out. Speaking on the role of There are currently 498 UN Police communities, and the relationship officers mandated to assist in the between police and communities, development of the LNP and BIN the Police Adviser reminded that through training and mentoring. The Liberia has embraced the principles of United Nations is working diligently democratic policing as they rebuild the to provide UN Police Officers with LNP. “The UNPOL support to LNP the right skills and the right approach is not about creating a police force – to ensure the LNP and BIN achieve a it is about developing capacities for level of professionalism essential for delivery of police service – with a very sustaining the peace in Liberia, Orler strong focus on service because that’s said. what we – the police- are about. The On the issue of training, police should be there to work with Commissioner Orler expressed her the community to make sure everyone pleasure that a Norwegian funded feels safe. I have seen over the last
Speaking on the role of communities, and the relationship between police and communities, the Police Adviser reminded that Liberia has embraced the principles of democratic policing as they rebuild the LNP.
Orler with UNPOL and Liberian security officials
couple of days very good evidence that this is what is happening.” The Police Adviser described what she believed to be clear proof Liberia National Police is Progressing: that the community trust in the LNP is improving. “Following the recent although the working conditions have infrastructure project has enabled prison break in Zwedru, the fast remained difficult, the officers were the doubling of the National Police recapture of the escapees was due Police Adviser present at work and performing their Training Academy’s capacity, but principally to the support provided duties. This commitment, despite the lamented that budgetary constraints by the communities to the LNP. challenges, is clearly indicative of a may likely preclude maximizing This shows that there is no doubt, young police service striving to earn seating capacities for training in the improvements in the relationship and the badge of professionalism. coming year. Reminding that police trust between communities and the While discussing the recent training is a process -- a lifetime of LNP.” She also witnessed, during renewal of UNMIL’s mandate, work -- Orler praised the NPTA for the night patrol, community members which gives a greater role to the UN their commitment to in-service and bringing a suspect into the police police in helping Liberia transition specialized training, as well as basic station and handing him over to the to a peacebuilding phase, and three training. “Training is a never-ending LNP. In past years, “mob violence” additional Formed Police Units, Police story,” she said. was the norm, not seeking out and Adviser Orler explained that the The Police Adviser recognized handing over suspects to the LNP. process of transitioning security re- LNP’s efforts to encourage females “These actions clearly demonstrate sponsibilities will be very gradual, to join the service, including their improving confidence,” she said.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 7 Liberian security officials patrol the border with Côte d’Ivoire ‘Operation Restore Hope’ Bids to Regain Community Trust
By Sonnie Morris Gregory O. W. Coleman told UN the community or County authority FOCUS after the launch of Phase will engage in, we will work with s part of efforts to 2 that on a daily basis, a Joint Task them so they see us from a different ensure that Liberia’s Force, with the help of UN Police, perspective,” said Coleman. “Some territory is not used Military Observers and soldiers of of us in the Force today are choristers, for any cross-border the Pakistani Battalion carry out foot evangelists and have different attacks, members of the patrols in and around the County and disciplines but the uniform sometimes ALiberia National Police, the Emergency various crossing points ensuring that makes people go far from us. But Response Unit and the Armed Forces calm is maintained at every level. we want to do all this as a sign of of Liberia have moved into phase 2 of A key feature of Phase 2 of reconciling the stigma caused by the Operation Restore Hope in Grand Gedeh Operation Restore Hope is closer uniform.” County. interaction with the local community. Liberia’s security agencies have Senior Inspector of Police Col. “Whatever development projects had a mixed history with protectors
8 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 “Operation Mayo” Meeting Notes Calm at the Borders
By William Bwewusa information sharing and joint security operations during the he border between Liberia and meeting in the Ivorian border post of Côte d’Ivoire remains calm Prollo. He stressed the importance Tand peaceful at the moment of intermission cooperation and according to representatives at participation of all actors to ensure a cross-border meeting held in the protection of civilians, especially September under the auspices of in communities along the border. Operation Mayo. Such meetings are Security officials from Liberia a regular feature of the operation, cited poor road network and limited a framework for cross-border logistics as major hindrances to cooperation between UNMIL and effective patrols on their side of the UNOCI, the sister peacekeeping border. mission in Côte d’Ivoire. Maryland County Joint patrols are continuing along Superintendent Nazarene the 760 km border with security Brewer-Tubman seized the occasion agencies of the two countries, with a to announce a decision by the view to pre-empting and preventing Government of Liberia to partially any illegal activity or acts that might reopen the border crossing at undermine security in the region. Doukudi. She said the border post UNOCI Force Commander would be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Maj.-Gen. Iqbal Asi commended until further notice. She called on Liberian security officials patrol the border with Côte d’Ivoire the governments of Liberia and local security forces on both sides of Côte d’Ivoire for their efforts to the border to monitor all crossings ensure peace and security through closely. ‘Operation Restore Hope’ Bids the Police, ERU and the AFL as their During one of the patrols at the friends, and not be afraid to come Tempo border and Tempo Town, around them. He said from the initial Col. Coleman held talks with the local stage of the Operation, local residents chief, Philip Jeldeo, who said he was appeared to be afraid of their presence. happy with the presence and activities to Regain Community Trust People didn’t seem to understand of the ERU in the town. Jeldeo noted what they were in the region for. that there were still 181 refugees in the turning predators during the civil The joint operation in Phase 2 had area despite their relocation to the PTP war years, instilling fear among the also been increased with the Armed refugee camp just outside Zwedru. population. That mistrust is not yet Forces of Liberia and the Police and The town chief also told the patrol fully eradicated, necessitating the Emergency Response Unit deployed team that the 370 people in Tempo new law enforcement agencies to go and assigned at various crossing Town, excluding the refugees, are all the extra mile to regain trust from points, including footpaths that snake engaged in farming. communities. through forested areas. Meetings with the Ivorian Col. Coleman said they will conduct Operation Restore Hope aims to intelligence have been taking place clean up exercises in communities secure Liberia’s territory so that to exchange ideas on how to secure where the security forces are deployed citizens live in peace, besides making the border and prevent attacks. The and will even organize community sure that refugees residing in the current phase of border patrols is sports tournaments. Such interaction country, especially in Grand Gedeh, expected to last for three months, after will enable the local community to see do not live in fear or under threat. which there will be a review.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 9 Liberian girls take to the streets to celebrate the Day of The Girl Child “I am a GIRL, Not A WIFE…” By Calixte Hessou him. After two days Oldman Boakai Jebbeh was finally rescued thanks [name changed] came and brought to a passerby who heard her shouts. iberia has one of the gifts for my parents including a cell “One day, Oldman Boakai wanted highest prevalence of child phone for my father and lappas for to have sex with me and I refused. marriage in the world. On my step-mother as my dowry,” Jebbeh He tied me up as usual and I began average, almost two out of says. to shout; calling for help. Just at that five girls will be married A few days after arriving in time, someone was passing and he Lbefore their 18th birthday. The legal Monrovia, Oldman Boakai demanded alerted the police. That was how I was age for marriage in Liberia is 18. that she begin performing the duty of taken from Oldman Boakai in 2009,” Jebbeh [name changed], now 16, a wife. “I would cook, clean up and she recollects. was forced into marriage to a man old satisfy him sexually,” she lamented. Jebbeh now lives at a foster home enough to be her grandfather at the Jebbeh recounts that Olman Boakai and her parents have refused to see age of 11, and is still suffering from the kept her indoors most of the time and her. However, she has no sympathy harmful consequences. forced her to commit abortions: “He for parents who give out their children “I used to live with my parents in kept me locked up in the house. For into marriage at early age for whatever Margibi County. One day my parents every time he came home he would reasons. “I want the government to informed me that a man was coming have sex with me. Whenever I resisted, punish or jail parents who will force to take me to Monrovia to live with he would tie me up and force me.” their girl children to get marry soon,”
10 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 in collaboration with civil society concerning sexual reproductive health; organizations, Liberian girls adopted a empowerment of adolescent girls to manifesto calling for the end of child overcome fear and low self-esteem; marriage for submission to President and programmes and services to help Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. girls – pregnant or mothers -- stay in “Child marriage violates millions of school. girls’ rights, disrupts their education, A report by UNFPA maintains that jeopardizes their health, and denies if current trends continue, the number them their childhood; limiting their of girl child marriages will increase opportunities. We want early marriage dramatically over the next 10 years. and the practice of our parents and According to Marrying too Young: guardians giving us to older men to End Child Marriage, released on the end now, because this takes away all inaugural International Day of the our opportunities to explore the world Girl Child on 11 October, despite laws and puts heavy burdens on us,” they to prevent its practice, child marriage announced. has remained mostly constant in
A report by UNFPA maintains that if current trends continue, the number of girl child marriages will increase dramatically over the next 10 years.
They also want stronger measures developing countries over the past including the enforcement of existing decade. law preventing parents from forcing “No social, cultural or religious Liberian girls take to the streets to celebrate the Day of The Girl Child their girl children into early marriage; rationale for child marriage can or using them as sex commodities for possibly justify the damage these financial benefits. marriages do to young girls and their she says. Among other key demands made potential. A girl should have the Though child marriage is against by the girls include provision of right to choose whom she marries the law, the practice continues safe spaces where girls can go to ask and when,” says UNFPA Executive with parents often motivated by questions and get accurate answers Director Dr. Babatunde Osotimehin. traditional beliefs or economic gains. Child marriage has several harmful Boys too are demanding an end to child marriage effects on young girls who are not psychologically, emotionally and physically ready for married life. It often denies girls an education, and subjects them to discrimination, domestic violence and abuse. Complications of pregnancy and childbearing are the leading cause of death for girls between 15 and 19. But now Liberian girls are calling for an end to the practice that deprives them of the chance to achieve their full potential. At a one-day consultative forum on Child Marriage by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Ministry of Gender and Development
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 11 New Push to Combat Sexual Abuse of Children to the eyes of the participants of an intensive two-day discussion resulting in a comprehensive prevention and response plan to combat sexual abuse of children in Liberia over the next three years. Incidents of sexual-based violence and rape remain alarmingly high in Liberia with children being the main victims. More than 60 per cent of victims are below the age of 12 and sometimes they are only a few months old, according to Madhumita Sarkar, Adviser for the Government of Liberia-UN Joint Programme on Sexual and Gender Based Violence. Over 3,500 incidents of gender-based sexual violence were reported in the last 20 months according to police statistics. On average, 5 to 6 children and women are raped or suffer sexual violence every day in Liberia. Experts say this represents the tip of the iceberg since many incidents go unreported. As noted by the 12-year old survivor who courageously shared her ordeal, there has been an entrenched culture of silence by Liberian families over incidents involving sexual abuse of children. Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Rule of Law Louis Aucoin called for a united front against sexual abuse. He said this would give victims the confidence to One of Liberia’s many child rape victims with her toys speak out and also deter perpetrators. The UN Envoy commended By Julie Agum child speaking in a recorded interview. the retreat participants for their “Day in, day out, night after night, commitment to combating sexual articipants of a national the most unspeakable happened! My abuse of children. He noted that the retreat aimed at finding a uncle would sneak into my room and hard work of following up would now way forward to prevent rape me. He abused me repeatedly begin. sexual abuse of children until I could no longer control my “The messages for the public in Liberia were clearly bladder and bowels. Oh, how ashamed outreach campaigns need to be adapted movedP by the harrowing story of a and helpless I felt. … I kept hoping my so that they are understandable to 12-year-old survivor of rape at the mother would save me that she would children. The criminal investigation hands of her uncle. bring an end to my torture but she procedures have to be adapted so that “I stopped being a child and started remained silent, frozen!” special needs and requirements of living in fear,” said the anonymous The child’s ordeal brought tears children are taken into account.
12 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 New Push to Combat Sexual Abuse of Children Sachiko Kondo/World Bank Sachiko Kondo/World Children demonstrate against rape
“It is also important that them,” said Meima Sirleaf-Karneh, medical, psychosocial, and legal needs information on progress is shared with Assistant Minister for Research of children in such circumstances, others so that we motivate the whole and Technical Services, Ministry of discouraging communities from society to take additional measures Gender and Development. She urged taking the law into their own hands and go the extra mile to prevent sexual all the key stakeholders to ensure the by settling sexual abuse cases outside abuse of children,” Aucoin stressed. recommendations become a reality. the formal legal system, involving Participants at the retreat agreed Out of the two day meeting a set traditional and religious leaders in the debate, encouraging more dialogue between the Judiciary and traditional leaders. The group also developed two On average, 5 to 6 children and women are raped or important messages in Liberian English suffer sexual violence every day in Liberia. Experts aimed at helping to discourage sexual abuse of children. These messages say this represents the tip of the iceberg since many are to be promoted through various incidents go unreported. media. Very soon posters will go up saying “Stop doing man and women business to me, I am a child!” Around the country people will also see adverts saying: “Mama and Papa, rape is not a that a carefully planned, culturally of recommendations were formulated family matter. Report it!” sensitive strategy is needed to which included raising awareness in The retreat was organized and encourage women and children to Liberian communities about the need supported by the Government of bring perpetrators to justice. to support and not blame children Liberia, United Nations Gender “Our children are our future and who are victims of sexual abuse, Based Violence Joint Programme and we need to protect and provide for making provision for the special UNICEF.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 13 Torbor Nyesuah, Assistant Minister of Health for Preventive Services, inaugurates the facility One-Stop-Shop for SGBV Survivors
By Romeo Togba “Five years ago, when I went to also offers free maternal health care give birth, the child did not make services. s she looked at her it as the person who performed the Located in West Point, Monrovia, newly-born son, a delivery was not a trained health the Star of the Sea Health Centre is a smile creased the face worker,” Kaymah recounted. pilot project that provides survivors of 21-year-old Kaymah But with the setting up of Liberia’s of SGBV with services such as clinical Teahneh [not her real first ever One-Stop-Shop for Sexual management of rape and other forms Aname]. “I just can’t express how happy and Gender Based Violence (SGBV) of SGBV. Awareness sessions on I am for my safe delivery,” a cheerful survivors, safe delivery is possible sexual exploitation and abuse (SEA) Kaymah said as she caressed the baby. for women like Kaymah as the center including STIs, HIV/AIDS awareness,
14 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 the government of Liberia and the the category of “failed projects”. United Nations to address sexual and UNFPA Country Representative gender based violence and sexual Esperance Fundira pledged the UN exploitation and abuse cases through family’s commitment to working with the implementation of both prevention partners in addressing the issue of and response measures. SGBV in the society. “This marks an important step “We remain committed to working in our joint efforts to end gender with partners in bringing dignity to based violence in our country,” those affected by GBV. And we must
The Head of Development Cooperation of the Swedish International Development Agency, Gisela Strand, reiterates her government’s commitment to work with Liberia and other partners to address sexual and gender based violence in the country. She notes that getting feedback from the service users will be cardinal to the success of the project.
said Assistant Health Minister for always put the people we serve at the Preventive Services Tobor Nyesuah as center of whatever we do,” Fundira he inaugurated the facility. points out. She is quick to stress that “We are convinced that the putting in place a system of monitoring community outreach on sexual and is important to ensure the success of reproductive health for adolescent the project. girls and youth will help in our efforts Funding for the project, over US$ to reduce maternal mortality rate,” 39,000, was provided by the Swedish Nyesuah said, stressing the need to Government through the UNFPA. replicate the initiative in other parts of “Getting feedback from the users the country. on how they are treated, the type of Torbor Nyesuah, Assistant Minister of Health for Preventive Services, inaugurates the facility care they receive, and maintaining their confidentiality, among others, will be an important feature of the success of this project.” A local non-governmental organization, Touching Humanity One-Stop-Shop for SGBV Survivors in Need of Kindness (THINK), is partnering with the Joint Programme community outreach on sexual and The Ministry of Gender is also a on SGBV to provide services to users reproductive health for adolescent key partner in the Joint Programme of the facility. girls and youth as well as legal aid and on SGBV. “For us at the Ministry of THINK’s Rosana Schaack said law enforcement interventions also Gender, having a one stop-shop where ending GBV is an important step to form part of the project. survivors of GBV are being catered for, improving the social wellbeing of With funding from the Swedish is a dream come true,” says Deputy women and girls in the society. “The Development Agency (SIDA), the Gender Minister for Technical Services fight against GBV should concern project became a reality through Annette Kiawu. She stressed the need everyone as 60 per cent of the women in UNFPA under the Joint Programme for partners to remain supportive of the country have suffered gender based on SGBV, a partnership between the facility to save it from falling into violence in one form or another.”
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 15 “Separated” Refugee Bags University Degree
By Sulaiman Momodu had to take care of his three younger fresh graduate is among a few Ivorian siblings with whom he fled. refugees whose dream of a university oming from a family Recently though, Bertin had every education has come true through the relying on meagre reason to smile as he was conferred assistance of the United Nations High subsistence farming for a bachelor’s degree in Public Commissioner for Refugees in Liberia. a livelihood, Bomi Gueu Administration and Political Science “Fleeing from a Francophone D. Bertin was always from the United Methodist University country to Anglophone, everything Cdetermined to acquire education in Liberia. “My father and mother are was new to me but my spirit continued with the hope of one day changing peasant farmers. I was approaching to tell me that I will succeed,” Bertin his fortune. However, when conflict 18 when we were separated from narrated the challenge he had to broke out in Côte d’Ivoire in 2002, them in 2004 as we were not together overcome. After completing his the youngster’s secondary schooling when fighting broke. I was in Man secondary education in Liberia’s was not only interrupted, but he was while they were in Danane. I fled to Nimba County with UNHCR’s separated from his parents and ended Liberia with my sisters and we have assistance, Bertin boldly relocated to up as a refugee in Liberia. He also been refugees since then,” he said. The the capital Monrovia in pursuit of his
16 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 university students undergoing existing possibilities.” studies thanks to UNHCR scholarship. The UNHCR education assistance UNHCR Representative Cosmas policy prioritizes primary schooling Chanda has congratulated the refugee both for camp-based and urban on his academic journey so far and his refugees. Liberia, which hosts about graduation. “It is always our desire 65,000 Ivorian refugees, has a free to assist refugees and our delight to primary education policy. Refugees celebrate their successes. Depending are encouraged to take advantage of
UNHCR provides material assistance such as uniforms, shoes, books and bags to refugee children. Last academic year, 300 urban refugee children received this assistance. This year more than 200 primary and secondary school pupils have benefited.
on the availability of funds, we will it while UNHCR provides material definitely assist other refugees to assistance such as uniforms, shoes, realize their dreams,” he said. books and bags to refugee children. Senior Protection Officer Last academic year, 300 urban refugee Anne-Elisabeth Ravetto noted that children received this assistance. the graduation of an Ivorian refugee This year more than 200 primary in Liberia is another example of the and secondary school pupils have
Sulaiman Momodu/UNHCR favourable asylum environment benefited. Refugee, but a proud graduate, too! “Separated” Refugee Bags University Degree
university dreams. Over the years, Liberia has been ensuring to all those UNHCR is also building the in addition to the tuition and other who are in need of international capacity of refugees to improve their related fees, the UN refugee agency protection. “Graduating from livelihood. Last year 40 adult refugees assisted him with stipend every University is an important step in were sponsored in various vocational semester for books, transportation and everybody’s life. Having managed to and skill training institutions while accommodation. study while in exile and caring for his the same number is being assisted this Notwithstanding funding younger siblings is a real achievement. year. constraints, from 2008 till this year I do hope that his example will be Having earned a degree and six refugees, including Bertin, have followed by other youths in exile in looking forward to further studies benefited from scholarships to attend Liberia” she noted. “I wish UNHCR in future, Bertin says his goal is to different universities in Liberia. could support more refugees to beat poverty and also contribute to One of the students successfully attend tertiary education in Liberia. I helping people in need. “I inherited completed his studies from the am calling on the humanitarian and extreme poverty, but I am working Cuttington University sometime last development communities for more to transform that to prosperity,” he year. Currently, there are four Ivorian support as so far requests far exceed remarked, optimistically.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 17 UN Flights Help Thousands of Returning Refugees
By Sulaiman Momodu brought up in Ghana, this would be to Ghana in 1990 as civil war broke the first time to travel by air. There is out. “I am expecting Liberia to be ozens of Liberia-bound a mixture of excitement and sadness, beautiful just like Ghana,” she adds, passengers arrived at especially among the children as they smiling heartily. the Kotoka International are leaving behind their friends, but At the airport, United Nations High Airport in the Ghanaian there is also the eager anticipation of Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) capital, Accra, all set to stepping foot on their native land. and Liberia Refugee Repatriation and Dsay goodbye to the place many of them “We are eager to see our country Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) had for several years called their home. and to continue our education, as personnel assist the refugees with For many of these returning Liberian well as make new friends,” says check-in formalities. Soon they are refugees, including children born and 14-year-old Yatta, whose parents fled all seated at the given boarding gate
18 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 as loved ones hug the returnees. Some and partners would no more organize shed tears of joy. repatriation movement for Liberian For some years, this has been refugees. So far this year, the UNHCR the trend of repatriation of Liberian has facilitated the voluntary return of refugees from Ghana. Thousands more than 20,000 Liberian refugees of Liberians have returned on the all of whom received repatriation plane contracted by the UN Mission and reintegration cash grant plus in Liberia (UNMIL) flying with 80 secondary transportation allowance Liberian refugees every Friday and totalling $375 for each adult and $ 275 50 every Sunday depending on the for each child below 18. Since 2004, the availability of space. UN refugee agency has facilitated the UNMIL’s assistance to the ongoing return of more than 146,000 Liberian repatriation of refugees has been well refugees mainly from the West Africa appreciated by UNHCR personnel in sub-region. The Cessation Clause Liberia, Ghana and Geneva. “Imagine for Liberian refugees, which means what it will cost us to buy air tickets Liberians are no longer considered for hundreds of refugees. For this year refugees, came into effect on 1 July this for instance, more than 4,700 Liberian year, but the UNHCR had continued refugees have returned from Ghana to facilitate the return of thousands of including more than 90 per cent of refugees who had registered to return whom returned by UNMIL’s flight. before that date. We are very grateful to the Mission’s UNHCR Representative Cosmas
The UN refugee agency and partners are sensitizing refugees in countries of asylum to avail themselves of Sulaiman Momodu/UNHCR the opportunity to return as of 1 January 2013, UNHCR Returnees from Ghana board a UN Flght and partners would no more organize repatriation movement for Liberian refugees. UN Flights Help Thousands of leadership for this assistance,” Chanda notes that UNHCR is also very as they look outside and see their commends UNHCR Deputy thankful to the Mission for various belongings being loaded on the UN Representative Robert Tibagwa. supports such as the rehabilitation of plane they will shortly board. Some Repatriation of Liberian refugees, roads to Ivorian refugee camps and discuss their years in refuge at the which started in 2004, is finally ensuring security as Liberia currently Returning Refugees Budumburam camp in Ghana, some coming to end on 31 December this hosts nearly 66,000 Ivorian refugees. kilometers outside Accra, while others year. Tibagwa also appreciates the “This is an excellent and remarkable talk about the reception they hope to opportunity to sometimes charter example of cooperation between receive from friends and loved ones the UN plane at a very reasonable a peacekeeping mission and a UN they had not seen for years. cost to repatriate refugees from other agency. “ As the plane takes off some countries such as The Gambia from Special Representative of the children scream at their first such where 332 Liberian refugees have been Secretary-General Karin Landgren, experience. Some look down through repatriated this year. herself a former senior manager at the windows to see the distance below. The UN refugee agency and UNHCR, says UNMIL will continue After nearly two hours of flying, the partners are sensitizing refugees to support the repatriation of Liberian plane touches down at Monrovia’s in countries of asylum to avail refugees. “I will say to UNHCR and all Roberts International airport. It is an themselves of the opportunity to UN agencies that you can count on my emotional atmosphere at the arrival return as of 1 January 2013, UNHCR strong support,” she assures.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 19 Refugee Camps Consolidated
By Sulaiman Momodu As UN FOCUS went to press, the number of Ivorian refugees in Liberia relocation of refugees from Dougee and in view of the high cost of running onsolidation of camps Refugee Camp, located along the main refugee camps. The initial plan was to hosting Ivorian refugees highway from Monrovia to Grand close the Dougee Refugee Camp by the in Liberia continues Gedeh County capital Zwedru, had end of December this year contingent with the Liberia Refugee just begun with dozens of refugees on capacity in receiving camps, road Repatriation and relocating to the PTP Camp at the conditions and developments in CResettlement Commission (LRRRC) former Prime Timber Production site Côte d’Ivoire,” said UNHCR Deputy and the United Nations High in the same Grand Gedeh County. Representative Robert Tibagwa. The Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Some refugees will be relocated to Dougee camp is now expected to close commencing the relocation of more the Little Wlebo Refugee Camp in in 2013. than 5, 700 refugees from the Dougee Maryland County. Prior to the relocation, the refugees Refugee Camp in Grand Gedeh “The consolidation of refugee were informed to choose between County to other camps. camps was prompted by the reduced going to either PTP Camp or the Little
20 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 peak of the Ivorian refugee emergency The Ivorian refugee population in nearly two years ago with more Liberia stood at over 65,000 at the than 220,000 Ivorians crossing into end of October, up from a previous Liberia. The Ziah Refugee Camp was low of 50,000 a few months ago as a decommissioned in late June this year result of new births as well as new with more than 1, 600 registered Ivorian refugees crossing over. “The increase refugees relocated to the PTP camp. in refugee population is contrary Along with the decommissioning of to previous planning estimate that refugee camps, relocation from 15 about half of this figure would have villages in Nimba County, where remained in the country by the end of refugees were allowed to stay among 2012 as a result of facilitated voluntary
The Little Wlebo camp in Maryland County can accommodate up to 20,000 refugees while the PTP camp has capacity for up to 25,000 refugees. There are improved services such as health, education, shelter, and water and sanitation in the camps where the refugees are relocating.
host communities during the height repatriation to Côte d’Ivoire. But that of the influx in late 2010 and 2011, is was impeded by the killing of seven also in progress. In late October, three peacekeepers in June this year,” of such communities were closed and UNHCR Representative Cosmas modest shelters the refugees occupied Chanda pointed out. He thanked the were handed over to local authorities. Government and people of Liberia The communities included Karnplay, for opening their doors and hearts to Camps hosting refugees Larpea #1 and Larpea #2. So far, assist their Ivorian brothers and sisters. UNHCR and LRRRC have closed Thousands of refugees have indicated eleven of such villages. that they would be staying in Liberia As relocation of refugees for some time as they are still afraid of continues, a small but steady number returning to their communities due to Refugee Camps Consolidated of new refugees are being recorded. security concerns. At a tender age these children have been uprooted from their homes Wlebo Camp. Earlier, Ivorian refugee leadership from the camp went on a “Go-and-See” visit to refugee camps in preparation for the relocation. The Little Wlebo camp in Maryland County can accommodate up to 20,000 refugees while the PTP camp has capacity for up to 25,000 refugees. There are improved services such as health, education, shelter, and water and sanitation in the camps where the refugees are relocating. Dougee and five other refugee camps were established during the
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 21 New Programming to Boost Agriculture
By Vanessa Curney country’s agriculture sector. With the differing geographical conditions. an annual budget of US$ 10 million, For example, there can be too little he Country Programming the Framework will be closely rain or too much in short sharp bursts, Framework (CPF) jointly reviewed annually by the UN and the creating unique problems for farming. launched in early October Government. However, Liberia is blessed with rich by the Government of “We are at the point when we natural resources and abundant rain Liberia and the Food and Liberians are determining our own as well as favourable agro-ecological TAgriculture Organization (FAO) is the destiny,” said Dr. Florence Chenoweth, conditions. Agricultural development first of its kind in Liberia. It outlines Minister for Agriculture, at the launch in Liberia is “a question of knowledge, the priority areas and expected results of the CPF on 4 October. However, organization and responsibility, with for Liberia’s agriculture sector over her ministry faces a challenging support from the Government,” specified periods: the first CPF spans ascent: out of a national budget of US$ according to Scaglia. He views capacity from 2012-2015 though it will run 649 million, just over US$5 million building as crucial. every five years in future. has been earmarked for agriculture. “FAO is training young students in “I believe agriculture to be a “Nonetheless we are going to do our some universities, and taking them to fantastic source of employment and best to move forward with what we the field to expose them to agriculture income, especially for women and have, supplemented with loans and and new farming techniques. They are youth,” says FAO’s Representative help from our development partners,” really active and see its importance; in Liberia, Jean-Alexandre Scaglia, said the Minister. they view agriculture as a potentially describing the CPF as a development Countries face various impediments very good area of business. We need tool to strengthen the capacity of the to agricultural progress depending on to convince the upcoming generation
22 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 for two-thirds of Liberia’s 3.5 million people. In Liberia agriculture comprises mainly small holder and subsistence farming, as well as cash crop plantations such as rubber, oil, palm, cocoa, sugarcane and coffee. A recent success story of vegetable farmers in Senewein Town, Grand Gedeh County, is a pointer to what benefits the CPF could bring in the future. The farmers recorded a remarkable increase in this year’s harvest of pepper, bitter balls, eggplants and other crops through an FAO, European Union and Government of Liberia initiative. “When the farmers produce, sell and see the physical cash, they are encouraged. So there is need for a consistent flow of support to them,” said Nounou Sharty, one of the FAO-supported young people assigned to the farmers under the FAO/GoL youth empowerment programme. Late this year, FAO will target another 2,000 households in vegetable gardening, as well as providing ongoing support in rice production Liberia has abundant fertile and arable land to 5,000 households in Liberia. These initiatives come in the wake of FAO’s recently published global 2012 report that says: “With almost 870 million people chronically undernourished in New Programming to Boost Agriculture 2010-2012, the number of hungry people in the world remains unacceptably high.” One in eight people worldwide that this is not an industry of the past. told UN FOCUS in an interview. still suffers from chronic hunger, says We are importing an unacceptable According to the FAO, agriculture the report. Scaglia emphasizes the national and partnership nature of the Country Programming Framework, which has taken its cues from the United A recent success story of vegetable farmers in Senewein Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) for Liberia, and Town, Grand Gedeh County, is a pointer to what benefits Government policy documents and the CPF could bring in the future. The farmers recorded strategies such as the draft Poverty Reduction Strategy-Two (2012-2015) a remarkable increase in this year’s harvest of pepper, and Liberia Rising – Vision 2030. “We bitter balls, eggplants and other crops through an FAO, extend hands of appreciation to our partners and the donor community European Union and Government of Liberia initiative. for their support over the years,” he said. “FAO, as a long-term partner of the Government of Liberia, will work with all of you to attain food security… by increasing agriculture production 50 per cent of what we eat, when in accounts for 61 per cent of GDP (2008) while promoting improved natural fact we should be exporting,” Scaglia and is the primary source of livelihood resource management.”
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 23 Rural Women Embrace Family Planning
By Moses M. Zangar, Jr. with economic empowerment,” says peace huts and to build the women’s Ghoma Karloweah, UN Women income base. Similar programmes wenty-five rural women Program Officer. are also benefiting residents of from diverse communities UN Women-supported Grand Bassa, Grand Gedeh, Nimba, in Rivercess County peace hut initiative undertakes Gbarpolu, and Margibi Counties. were recently part of a socio-economic training and activities Women who attended the family week-long training to including tye-dying, weaving and planning training range in age from Tlearn about modern contraception, cassava processing. The economic 24-60 years. Many of them are either optimal spacing of children, and other independence gained through these working at home, farming and taking basic family planning concepts thanks activities is expected to give the women care of their children. Interactive to support from UN Women and the more bargaining power in their activities were incorporated during United Nations Population Fund homes and courage to report cases of teaching to keep the women engaged. (UNFPA). domestic abuse. “The economic base “My husband believes in The training is being piloted as of women is further enhanced through traditional methods and doesn’t want part of a strategy to ensure that local the establishment of Village Saving us to adopt modern family planning residents are empowered to act on the and Loan Associations (VSLAs) methods. I will either convince him knowledge they receive and integrate providing women with access to or prevent unwanted pregnancies health practices into their daily lives. micro-credit to improve and expand secretly,” one participant whispered. The Plan Parenthood Association of their businesses,” Karloweah said. For women in rural areas, injections Liberia is the implementing partner. With support from UN Women, that prevent pregnancies are more “UN Women is currently ChildrenSmile, a local NGO is popular because they last for several running a holistic peace and security providing literacy and vocational months, reducing the need to travel programme in Cestos which is not skills training such as baking, sewing, more often to far away health centres. only family planning, but a full and fish seasoning and drying to There is resistance to the idea of access to justice component linked compensate for the time spent in the contraception in rural communities
24 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 have four to five children at a young age,” says Regina Hodges, Medical Services Delivery Officer of the Plan Parenthood Association of Liberia. Armed with booklets and communication training, Hodges and her colleague, Florence M. Kromah, conducted educational sessions with the women, dispelling falsehoods about family planning and preparing women in rural communities to lead better and healthier lives. The duo advised participants to adopt safe family planning methods. “I thank UN Women, especially for the projects they are undertaking in Cestos City,” says Oretha Y. Johnson, believing firmly that such education will improve not only the health of rural women, but the welfare of their families and their communities. In a small village on the way to Cestos City, one woman who only identified herself as Sunday-mar said An educational session in progress “Look at me. I am 39 years old and I have four children. I am already tired but here we have no access to family planning.” Hodges thinks the need for family planning commodities and services is Rural Women Embrace Family Planning increasing throughout the country in part because the number of women as people fear it will lead to infertility. their sexual and reproductive rights, of reproductive age is growing. She Cultural beliefs about the need for especially in rural areas. The high said unintended pregnancies are many children are strong, as many illiteracy rate among Liberian women widespread in rural communities, parents tend to rely on children for has a negative impact on women’s placing a burden on individuals, support during old age. In the minds health. However, recent legislations, families, health systems, and socio-economic development. Many women in the rural villages of Liberia have not received an Many women in the rural villages of Liberia have not education beyond primary school. They tend to marry and start having received an education beyond primary school. They children at a very young age without tend to marry and start having children at a very knowing anything about their own bodies, proper nutrition, and how to young age without knowing anything about their own care for their newborn babies. bodies, proper nutrition, and how to care for their The United Nations and the Government of Liberia have launched newborn babies. awareness campaigns to enable and encourage women to access sexual and reproductive health services. Last year, President Ellen Johnson of many rural dwellers, more children including on rape and inheritance Sirleaf launched a five-year plan to equal more socio-economic stability laws, are addressing some of these reduce maternal and infant mortality later in life. issues. in the country. The plan also aims to Additionally, customary laws and “Our rural women get married too enhance family planning among the practices often deny women and girls early, give birth almost every year, and population.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 25 Voinjama in Lofa County. Since the launch of the microfinance scheme established through the sale of their produce, life has taken an upward turn, confesses another member of the Karnplay cooperative. “The cooperative has enabled me to send my three children to school as a single parent.” The construction of the farm produce storage facilities was instigated by the food crisis that hit sub-Saharan Africa in 2009, according to UNDP’s Project Manager for Community Based Recovery Programme. “These structures were built as part of efforts by the international community to respond to the food crisis in Liberia and other African countries,” Salvator Nkurunziza pointed out. With funding from the European Union, the projects were taken on by the UN/ Government of Liberia Joint Food A beneficiary of the new storage facilities Programme which includes UNDP, WFP and FAO. The EU-funded programme has prioritized the construction of Storage Facilities warehouses, hand dug wells, toilet blocks, and drying floors to selected communities. A total of 10 Warehouses have been constructed, at the cost of Encourage Farmers over US$ 500,000 in Nimba, Bong and Lofa counties. Each food storage warehouse has By Augusta Pshorr “With support from the UN we a rice mill and thresher, a de-stoning are now experiencing better yields machine and a power tiller provided hank God we are in our harvest and with World Food by FAO, which has conducted training now able to store Programme buying our produce from in production, pest management, our produce in us, we are gaining better profits.” agro-business and management a structure that Money generated from the sale of the techniques. UNDP has also provided protects them produce has been positively impacting training on storage management, “Tfrom the rain and sun,” a beaming the lives of members of the cooperative leadership and business, including Annie Kruah says pointing to the in Karnplay. “Through the sales of our book keeping and business planning. stock pile of rice in the newly built produce we were able to open our own WFP purchases rice produced by warehouse in Karnplay, Nimba accounts and we have also established the farmers from the Cooperatives County. a loan scheme,” Kruah adds. through its Purchase for Progress A member of the Karnplay Several storage facilities built (P4P) programme. Cooperative, Kruah is full of praise by UNDP under its EU funded UN Currently the Cooperative groups for the intervention of the European Joint Food Programme were recently are being supported towards increasing Union sponsored United Nations Joint handed over through the Ministry of market performance through Village Programme on Food Security that has Agriculture in Samay, Sanoyea and Savings Loan Associations. Some of helped to boost the output of rural Botota in Bong County, Karnplay, these farmers-based organizations women and improve the wellbeing of Gbeidin and Zayglay in Nimba have had their capacities built through the cooperative’s members. County as well as Foya, Barkedu and training in microfinance.
26 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 assistance for the world’s 81 poorest countries, 39 of which are in Africa, and since 1960 IDA has supported development work in 108 countries. In a related development, the Liberian government and the World Bank Group in late October launched a US$ 28.55 million project called Integrated Public Financial Management Reform Project (IPFMRP) aimed at enhancing revenue mobilization and administration as well as to provide support to the government’s financial reform programme. Vice President Joseph Boakai kicks off the road construction World Bank Senior Operations Officer for Liberia, Coleen Littlejohn, said the Legislative enactment of the Performance Financial Management World Bank Supports (PFM) law in 2009 is critical to the financial reform process in Liberia. She said concrete measures will Road Rehabilitation be pursued to improve resource management in a way that develops By James S. King the country’s domestic products are Liberia’s institutional, organizational produced -- and Monrovia, the capital. and human capacities. African he World Bank in Roads to be rehabilitated include the Development Bank (ADB) Resident September approved US$ road connecting Eternal Love Winning Representative Margaret Kilo said the 50 million to rehabilitate Africa (ELWA) with Paynesville Red project will enhance public financial roads in Liberia. The Light Community to the provincial management in Liberia, and pledged amount is a credit from city of Gbarnga as well as the road ADB’s continued support to the Tthe International Development connecting Gbarnga with the border project. Association (IDA), the Bank’s fund for of Republic of Guinea. Sebastian Muah of the Ministry poor countries. The Government of “The road work between of Finance said PFM is a priority Liberia (GoL) too will contribute US$ ELWA and Paynesville Red Light for the government and one that 72.8 million for the Liberia Road Asset Communities in suburbs of Monrovia ensures sustainable economic growth Management Programme (LIBRAMP), will relieve motorists of traffic delays in Liberia. Muah said PFM was a flagship transport project that by creating two uninterrupted lanes,” developed with the assistance of the seeks to address the country’s road said Kulwinder Singh Rao, Task Team World Bank and the International development challenges. Leader of the project. Monetary Fund (IMF). Jamal Saghir, World Bank’s As a flagship transport initiative The World Bank Group will provide Director for Sustainable Development in the region, LIBRAMP adopts an $5 million of the US$28.55 million, Department for Africa Region says Output and Performance based Road Swedish International Development the “multi-model transport plan” will Construction Contracting (OPRC) Agency (SIDA) will provide US$15.10 provide the direction for creating a approach covering the full life cycle of million, United States Aid for modern and effective transport system constructed roads. Maintenance of the International Development (USAID) in major cities. “It will foster economic road corridor between Monrovia and will provide US$3.85 million and growth, social development and the border with Guinea is expected to the African Development Bank inclusion, as wells as reduce negative run for a period of ten years. (ADB) will provide the remaining impact on the environment,” Saghir IDA established in 1960 helps the 4.6 million. The World Bank Multi adds. world’s poorest countries by providing Donor Trust Fund will administer The deplorable state of Liberia’s loans (called “credits”) and grants for SIDA and USAID grants while ADB roads impedes easy conveyance of projects and programmes that boost will coordinate disbursement of the goods and services between rural economic growth and reduce poverty. funds in conjunction with relevant communities -- where the bulk of IDA is one of the largest sources of development partners.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 27 grounds of the market community instead of loitering away. “We constructed the market along with a school and a playground so that while the women are selling, their children can be in school learning, while the playground is to also help ensure that the children remain within market community,” Salvator Nkurunziza of the UNDP said, adding “this project is empowering the women of this area. When you empower a woman, you empower a community and a nation.” Nkurunziza expressed the hope that the facilities will help provide a platform for the women to seek avenues for economic empowerment. He said the construction of the hand pump was intended to help shorten the distances that the women cover to fetch water. The latrine will allow the people access to a hygienic facility. Liberia’s Deputy Agriculture Minister for Research, Technical Playground and daycare centre - one of 3 facilities setup for the villagers of Yanewoun. Services and Extension, Thomas Gbokie expressed the Government’s appreciation to the Danish government, its partners, and the “We are happy, happy…” UNDP for delivering what he called “worthwhile facilities” to the people By Augusta Pshorr pump, is led by the UNDP through of Yanewoun and Liberia at large. its Community Based Recovery “We are very pleased as a chorus of “We are and Development Programme with Government to have good friends happy, happy, happy” funding from the Danish government. who think well about us, especially resonated from the Marketers now have a structure our women,” Minister Gbokie said young and the old in the that protects them from the rain and adding that projects such as the one village of Yanewoun, in the scorching sun, a warehouse to in Yanewoun speak to a progressive Aa forested area of Bong County, as a store their farm produce and other period being experienced in a very short convoy of vehicles carrying goods as well as a day-care centre and post-conflict country. “As we look at a delegation from the Government a playground for the children, whose these facilities, they manifest that the of Liberia and the UNDP entered the mothers used to worry about the rebuilding process is well on course,” village. A joint delegation had arrived whereabouts of their children when Gbokie pointed out. to dedicate food and nutrition projects they are busy selling their products. The cost of the project is put at over in their community. “It never occurred to me that such US$99,000. “Today is a special day for us,” an a project would have ever become In June 2008, the Government elderly woman walking with the aid a reality in this area. But here we of Liberia along with UNDP signed of a cane said as she headed to the are seeing this becoming a reality,” an agreement to develop a Joint scene of the turn over ceremony. The Lorpu Sumo, the women’s leader Programme on Food Security and people of Yanewoun were for the first in Yanewoun said of the DANIDA Nutrition. The programme, with a time ever being presented a market funded initiative. specific focus on women, seeks to structure, warehouse, a daycare center The day-care centre will provide improve women’s capacity through and a playground. academic access to the children of livelihood opportunities as well as the The project, which also includes the marketers. There is a playground provision of basic infrastructure for gender-sensitive latrine and a hand also to help keep the kids within the livelihood activities in communities.
28 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 as detail the roles, support services and complementary responsibilities within the project’s decision-making structures, including reporting and communication lines, and conflict resolution mechanisms. The Deputy Minister for Technical Services at the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Sizi Subah, said that as a result of climate change in Liberia farmers have put the planting of rice above all other agriculture activities, adding that farmers need to form part of the new farming technology. “Climate change is a reality and should be the business of everyone,” he stressed. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is also a major partner and will work directly with farmers at demonstration sites that will be set up. FAO Country Representative Jean-Alexandre Scaglia referred to climate change as one of the biggest challenges presently facing the world. Noting that there are technical solutions to mitigate its effects, he recommended that the fight against climate change be directed at the community level, with the Group discussion by participant at the Climate Change Workshop participation of farmers. The five-year project will support ongoing efforts to revitalize Liberia’s agriculture sector and ensure that Adapting to Climate Change adaptation to climate change is integrated into the process. The By Augusta Pshorr Development Programme Global general objective of the project is to Environment Facility (UNDP-GEF). increase the resilience of poor, ag- epresentatives from It will be implemented in Bong and ricultural-dependent communities Liberia’s Ministry Grand Gedeh Counties. and reduce farmers’ vulnerability by of Agriculture, the UNDP Deputy Resident diversifying crop farming through the Environment Protection Representative for Programme cultivation of soybeans, low-land rice Agency, tertiary Cleophas Torori noted that climate and small ruminant rearing. institutionsR and civil society groups change poses serious threats to the The total cost of the five-year have kick-started a pilot project to agriculture sector. He cited studies project is US$ 8 million constituting incorporate climate change concerns that show Liberia as vulnerable to both in-kind and parallel funding. into the development of the country’s climate change, especially in relation UNDP’s support is around US$ 2 agriculture sector. “Enhancing to low-land rice production. “The million dollars cash of co-financing and Resilience to Climate Change by good news is that the Government US$ 2.3 million grant from the GEF. Mainstreaming Adaption Concerns of Liberia has not lost sight of the Parallel funding is expected from the into Agriculture Sector Development dangers related to climate change” he Government of Liberia, FAO, and civil in Liberia” was launched at a two-day said, reaffirming UNDP’s commitment society organizations, among others. workshop held at the S.K.D Sports to remain engaged with the Liberian This funding does not necessarily Complex in Monrovia in late August. Government. constitute actual cash, but rather The pilot project is spearheaded The workshop was designed to interventions that are currently being by the Ministry of Agriculture with assist all partners fully understand and made by these institutions working in support from the United Nations take ownership of the project as well the areas of climate change.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 29 Liberians Speak What Reforms Do You Wish to See in Liberia’s Constitution?
Dr. Joshua D.B. Giddings, Vice President for Public Relations, Cuttington Univer- sity, Bong County: I find Article 27 (b) of the Liberian Constitution on Citizen- ship appalling in this age. It states “In order to preserve, foster and maintain the positive Liberian Culture, value and Character, only persons who are Negroes Samuel F. Browne, Superintendent, Bomi or of Negro descent shall qualify by birth County: I support the constitutional re- or by naturalization to be citizens of Li- quirements that call for a candidate ob- beria”. It does not only sound racist in taining 30 years of age for the Senate tone but also archaic in this 21st Century and 25 years for the House of Represent- when the world has become a global vil- atives, living in Liberia not less than one lage through technology. It has outlived Counselor Ceaineh D. Clinton-Johnson, year before election, and being a taxpay- its usefulness and contributed nothing Assistant Professor of Human Rights er as stipulated in Article 30 of our con- towards Liberia’s development since Law: University of Liberia: My comment stitution. However, I would like to see a 1847. It needs to be changed to allow basically is that our current constitution constitution reform that requires college people of all races to become citizens of requires amendments. Since the consti- education, assets ownership by candi- Liberia. Such a reform will bring about tution of the United States of America dates (Representative or Senator) in con- rapid development to Liberia and mini- was written, it has undergone series of stituents they intend to represent, and mize capital flight. amendments to address emerging con- that the tenure for all legislators, (House stitutional issues. I would recommend of Representatives or Senate) shall serve that we carefully look at our constitution equal term as the president and all other and enact the constitutional provisions officials of government unless reelected. that mandate the National Legislature to pass law and see if some of those con- stitutional challenges we face will not be addressed. I don’t support the argu- ments that call for redoing the constitu- tion. I would rather suggest that we ask the members of the National Legislature to do those things they should have done since 1986 when the current constitution was produced. There are changes that I think we can do by amendment just like Thomas Bureh, Member, National Inde- the Americans do. If we decide to undo pendent Commission on Human Rights: the current constitution we will be set- I would suggest amendments be done in ting bad precedents. Future generations Paul Kareem Goah, IT Specialist, UN- the constitutional clauses on the tenures would want to follow suit and it won’t MIL, BOMI County: Simple majority shall of the Office of the President of the Re- be good for the nation. I don’t agree characterize election in the Republic. public of Liberia from six to four years. with the term ‘reform’ because the word We have realized its cost saving effect The tenures of members of the Houses reform implies different connotation. I from the 2011 parliamentary elections, of Senate and Representatives should would therefore recommend that we do and therefore having it applied for the likewise be reduced from nine years to amendments on irrelevant provisions in presidential election would certainly six years and six years to four years. We the constitution. save us millions and reduce the chaos we need to amend the portion of the con- normally experience during campaigns stitution that denies dual citizenship to in quest for victory for absolute major- Liberians. Dual citizenship should be ity. I am specifically citing Article 83(b), allowed Liberians who wish to take na- which requires second round voting for tionality of a second country. the presidency.
30 • UN FOCUS • September - November 2012 Liberians Speak What Reforms Do You Wish to See in Liberia’s Constitution?
Kadalah Kromah, Instructor of Physical Education & Director of Sports, Univer- sity of Liberia: I would like to see the ten- ure of Office of the President of the Re- public of Liberia reduced from six years to four years. If a president cannot set the country’s development agenda in first two years in office, obviously he or she could not do it in four years. I think Terrence Sasay, Former President of the two years are enough for a president to Press Union of Liberia: One of the consti- draw solid development plans. The cur- tutional provisions that I think should be Samuel B. Cole, Director of Civic and Vot- rent presidential tenure of six years in- amended is the six year tenure clause of er Education, National Elections Com- dicates Liberia lacks competent people the Office of the President of the Repub- mission: There are certain provisions in to lead the nation, and that I disagree lic of Liberia. The President shall have our constitution which as an election with. The tenure of the Senators and the constitutional right to two terms in expert I would like to see amended. For Representatives must also be reduced office. The two term period is more than example article 52 (c) of the Liberian from current nine years to six years and a decade. The issue about dual citizen- Constitution states in order to qualify Representatives from six years to four ship should be allowed. We now live in a as a presidential candidate, one must years. The issue of citizenship is another global village where there are exchang- have resided in Liberia 10 years prior to critical one. A non Negro (black) person es of knowledge and technology. If we the holding of elections. That portion born, bred and schooled in Liberia, who disallow Liberians dual citizenship we of our constitution is vague and must has known no other culture but Liberian would be undermining the development be amended. Once a person is a natural culture should be allowed citizenship of Liberia. There are Liberians in the Di- born citizen who meets set requirements but not allowed to ascend to the Office of aspora with technical expertise that we must be given the right to contest the President of the Republic of Liberia. need to develop Liberia. Should we deny Office of President. The decision on who them doing so only because they are citi- becomes president should be left with zens of another country? the voters. Article 56c also states that chiefs should be elected every six years but they can be removed from office by the President. When officials are elected by their people in their constituents I don’t think it would be proper for the President to remove them from office. I think this portion of the constitution which gives the President the authority to remove elected officials from office should be amended. Articles 80 (c) and (e) call for members of the National Leg- islature to set the electoral threshold. I Josephine Fatu Pedro, Student, Grand think this is contentious and is extra con- Bassa Community College: There is a Dr. Zachariah Z. Gaye, Educator and Au- stitutional and should also be amended cluster of constitutional issues for con- thor: I would like to see the election of in my opinion. sideration. However, I will speak directly superintendents, mayors and other key to Article 27(b) which restricts Liberian county officials. Let the people have an citizenship to people of Negro descent. opportunity to be served by their offi- This provision promotes constitutional cials who will be accountable to them. racism and discrimination. This article If those county officials are elected by should be amended to open Liberian citi- the people, they will seek to serve their zenship and land ownership to people of interest rather than the interest of the all races. Such amendment, in my view, president. would engender rapid development.
September - November 2012 • UN FOCUS • 31 UN FOCUS, Vol. 9, No. 01 A publication of the United Nations Mission in Liberia Public Information Office www.unmil.unmissions.org