UNDP Resident Representative Briefs President Boakai on Key UNDP Initiatives and Future Collaboration

Mr. Dia provided an update on the UNDP’s support to the Government’s Performance Management and Compliance System and expressed the organization’s willingness to support the operationalization of the President’s Delivery Unit to help accelerate the implementation of key government priorities. He also highlighted the Executive Mansion Communications Internship Program as an important investment in developing the next generation of Liberian communications professionals and explored opportunities for expanding the initiative.

The discussions also focused on climate action and environmental resilience, with Mr. Dia outlining ongoing efforts to mobilize greater climate financing, including support for coastal protection initiatives in West Point, Sinoe County and other vulnerable coastal communities affected by climate change.

On innovation and digital transformation, Mr. Dia highlighted plans to support the establishment of County Innovation Hubs across Liberia and discussed ongoing collaboration to establish an Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cybersecurity Center at the University of Liberia to equip young Liberians with the digital and technical skills required for the future economy.

In the health sector, Mr. Dia updated the President on UNDP’s support for the digitalization of the Registration Unit at the John F. Kennedy Medical Center (JFK) and discussed broader efforts to improve access to safe drinking water and essential services in rural communities. 

He also spoke about ongoing efforts to strengthen Liberia’s healthcare system, including ongoing efforts to renovate Voinjama Hospital in Lofa County. He noted the need to improve access to running water at the facility, procure ambulances and mobile clinics to serve remote communities. 

The meeting also covered 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 event is expected to bring together young leaders from across the sub-region while showcasing Liberia’s culture, investment opportunities, and development progress.

Mr. Dia also expressed the UNDP’s support for President Boakai’s peace and reconciliation agenda, recognizing its importance to national unity, social cohesion, and sustainable development.

President Boakai welcomed the update and thanked Mr. Dia for the UNDP’s continued partnership with Liberia. He expressed appreciation for the organization’s practical support to the Government’s development agenda and welcomed deeper collaboration in areas that strengthen public institutions, expand opportunities for young people, improve service delivery, and enhance the well-being of Liberians.