The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UN Women have taken a significant step towards empowering Liberian youth by providing them with computers and communication equipment. This initiative aims to enhance digital access for young people, enabling their active participation in peacebuilding and decision-making processes. The presentation ceremony, held at the Invisible Park in Monrovia, highlighted the UN’s commitment to inclusivity, recognizing the critical role of youth, women, and marginalized groups in fostering sustainable peace within Liberia. The provision of these digital tools is expected to bridge the information gap and equip these groups with the resources necessary to engage with national issues effectively.
UNFPA’s Resident Representative in Liberia, Bidisha Pillai, emphasized the importance of youth involvement in peace and governance. Access to information is a fundamental right, and the computers will serve as gateways to knowledge and opportunities for young people, women, and marginalized communities. This empowerment aligns with the broader UN agenda of promoting inclusive development and ensuring that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered in national dialogues.
Representatives of the recipient organizations expressed their gratitude for the initiative. Abdullah Bility, Vice President for International Affairs at the Federation of Liberian Youths, speaking on behalf of various youth organizations, commended UNFPA, UN Women, and the Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) for prioritizing youth inclusion in the project. Delvin Morris, representing the Women In Peace Building Network Program, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of utilizing digital tools in peacebuilding efforts. These statements underscore the value of these resources in empowering marginalized groups and facilitating their meaningful participation in national development.
Bega Meles of UN Women reiterated the organization’s commitment to collaborating with partners like the YMCA and UNFPA to empower women and youth in Liberia. This collaborative approach reflects the recognition that sustainable development requires partnerships and coordinated efforts. By working together, these organizations can leverage their expertise and resources to achieve greater impact and ensure that no one is left behind.
J. Bryant McGill, Deputy Minister for Youth Development at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, commended the UN agencies for their contribution to youth development. He noted the alignment of this initiative with the government’s Agenda for Revitalization, Resilience, Education, Advancement, Sustainability, and Transformation (ARREST). Minister McGill stressed the importance of digital transformation in youth programs, recognizing that technology plays a crucial role in empowering young people and preparing them for the future.
This initiative extends beyond merely providing equipment; it represents a strategic investment in Liberia’s future. By equipping young people with digital literacy and access to information, the UN is fostering a generation of informed and engaged citizens. The computers and communication equipment will empower youth organizations, disabled communities, and others to connect, communicate, and collaborate effectively, further strengthening their role in peacebuilding, advocacy, and national development. The distribution of this technology to organizations such as the Center for Exchange of Intellectual Opinion, the National Union of Organizations of the Disabled, and the Federation of Liberian Youths demonstrates the commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of the diverse needs within Liberia’s youth population. This initiative lays the groundwork for a more connected and empowered society, where young people have the tools and resources they need to contribute meaningfully to their communities and nation.
