By Stephanie M. Duncan
PAYNESVILLE, Liberia – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s development agenda, outlining a range of initiatives aimed at strengthening governance, accelerating digital transformation, improving healthcare, and building climate resilience across Liberia.
During a meeting with President Boakai at his Rehab Office in Paynesville on Friday, June 26, UNDP Resident Representative Aliou Mamadou Dia briefed the Liberian leader on the organization’s ongoing projects and discussed opportunities for expanding collaboration with the government.
Dia informed President Boakai that the UNDP remains committed to supporting the Government’s Performance Management and Compliance System and is prepared to assist in operationalizing the President’s Delivery Unit to accelerate the implementation of key national priorities.
He also highlighted the Executive Mansion Communications Internship Program as a strategic investment in developing Liberia’s next generation of communications professionals and discussed the possibility of expanding the initiative.
Climate change and environmental resilience featured prominently in the discussions, with Dia outlining efforts to mobilize additional climate financing to support coastal protection projects in West Point, Sinoe County, and other vulnerable coastal communities threatened by rising sea levels and erosion.
On innovation and digital transformation, the UNDP Resident Representative disclosed plans to support the establishment of County Innovation Hubs across Liberia while continuing collaboration on the creation of an Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity Center at the University of Liberia.
According to Dia, the proposed center will equip young Liberians with the digital and technical skills needed to compete in the rapidly evolving global economy.
The meeting also addressed healthcare improvements, with Dia providing updates on UNDP’s support for the digitalization of the Registration Unit at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK), as well as broader initiatives to improve access to safe drinking water and essential services in rural communities.
He further highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen Liberia’s healthcare system through the renovation of Voinjama Hospital in Lofa County, noting the need for improved running water, ambulances, and mobile clinics to serve remote communities.
Discussions also focused on Liberia’s preparations to host the Mano River Union (MRU) YouthConnekt Summit in Monrovia next June in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports. The regional event is expected to bring together young leaders from across the Mano River Union while showcasing Liberia’s culture, investment opportunities, and development progress.
Dia also reaffirmed the UNDP’s support for President Boakai’s peace and reconciliation agenda, describing it as essential to promoting national unity, social cohesion, and sustainable development.
In response, President Boakai welcomed the update and expressed appreciation for the UNDP’s continued partnership with Liberia.
The President thanked the organization for its practical support to the government’s development agenda and welcomed deeper collaboration in areas that strengthen public institutions, create opportunities for young people, improve public service delivery, and enhance the well-being of Liberians.
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