UNDP Liberia Annual Report 2011

Transcription

1 UNDP Liberia Annual Report 2011 United Nations Development Programe Monrovia, Liberia www. lr.undp.org Liberia Empowered Lives Resilent Nations

2 UNDP Liberia 2012 UNDP Liberia Annual Report 2011 Published by: UNDP Liberia Mamba Point, Monrovia Liberia registry.lr@undp.org Report management and oversight: Dominic Sam Review Team: Cleophas Torori, Nessie Golakai, Napoleon Abdulai, Rudolf Elbling, Kns Nair, Madhumita Sarkar, Fitsum G. Abraha, Rose Muchiri, Stanley Kamara, John Walker, Moses Massah, Abibu Tamu, Samuel Ndingi, Augusta Pshorr. Writer: Shipra Bose Design Shipra Bose Layout: Albert T. Dayyeah {albert_dayyeah@yahoo.com} This publication is available online at Photo credits: Front cover: a voter is exercising her constitutional right, casting ballot Back cover: defying heavy rain voters queue up on elections day Other two: Voters queue on Election Day and Counting Cover photos: Courtesy of the National Elections Commission (NEC) Pages 1, 7-8: LDLD programme/undp Pages 1, 26: KMV/UNDP Pages 2-4, 6, Back Cover: Courtesy of NEC and UNMIL PIO Pages 10, 12: CST/UNDP Pages 11, 23, 25: Shipra Bose Pages 13-16: JSP/UNDP Page 17: Courtesy of the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs Page 20: Nepali Sah Page 21-22: Courtesy of the Ministry of Gender and Development & ABIC Page 25(top): DIM to NIM/UNDP Page 26 (bottom): CBRD/UNDP Pages 27-30: Energy and Climate Change/UNDP All other photographs UNDP Liberia Contents Page No Foreword III Introduction: UNDP Country Programme in Delivering Results: 2 Deepening democracy, participation and voice: Liberia elections Beneath the success lie co-ordination and collaboration: partnership at its best 5-6 Reaching out to citizens: decentralization and local development 7-8 Liberia National Decentralization Policy: People s Agenda 9 Capacity for parity Delivering capacities for planning, monitoring and results effectiveness 12 Delivering Justice and Security National capacity, national ownership 17 Strengthening pro-poor policies and strategies Of the essence: Women, peace and security and gender equality Empowering community to eradicate poverty Promoting green living: prevention and mitigation UNDP Liberia Programme Delivery Acronyms Liberia Map: LISGIS I UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 II

3 UNDP Operation in Liberia 2011 Foreword In 2011, Liberia held its first nationally organized democratic elections since the end of the civil war in 2003, marking a major achievement in Liberia s post-crisis democratic development. Despite the global financial downturn, in 2011, the nation witnessed a positive turn in the economic arena with an annual GDP growth rate of 6.9%, and significantly, the government spearheaded a major planning exercise laying the foundation for Liberia becoming a middle-income country by the year UNDP, as a trusted partner, has been providing the government with policy advice, technical expertise and support on the ground to realize its recovery and development agenda and to ensure peace and stability and the achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) was the penultimate year of UNDP s current programme cycle ( ). Consolidation of the gains made in the past years was an important feature of our annual programme. We, therefore, focused in areas where our programme was meant to make greater impact. Keeping sustainability and national ownership in view, and to optimize the successes of the past years, we supported long-term capacity development of state entities, institutional development, leadership development and participative democracy. We ensured consistent support to the decentralization process, expansion of the judiciary and the capacity of the justice and security sector, particularly at the local level. A major achievement in 2011 was the national elections, which saw a splendid turn up of the voters. Our support to the National Elections Commission (NEC) made a difference. Our efforts towards co-ordination of stakeholders, including state entities, donors and the international community, complemented NEC s efforts to manage and conduct the elections in a manner which was widely regarded as free, fair and peaceful. Progress was also made in the area of pro-poor policy and strategy development. UNDP supported the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs in its efforts to formulate the medium and long-term economic development plan and strategy. Simultaneously, investments were made to improve local infrastructure creating conditions for effective public service delivery and widening choices and ability of poor women, men and youth, particularly in rural areas. In 2011, UNDP delivered US$ 47,506 million in support of the people of Liberia. Partnership with the Government, United Nations Mission in Liberia and donors was vital to deliver results achieved in 2011 and presented in this report. This report provides an account of major achievements of the year, and highlights some of the key results that have far reaching impacts in advancing Liberia s development agenda for transformation and sustaining peace and stability. Dominic Sam UNDP Country Director Moustapha Soumaré Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary General Resident Coordinator and Humanitarian Coordinator UNDP Resident Representative in Liberia Liberia: Socio-economic profile UNDP Programmes Population (2008 Census) 3,480,000 Decentralization and Population under the age % Local Development Economic Growth 6.9% Justice and Security Per Capital Income US$ 265 Inflation 8.5% Foreign Direct Investment 47 of GDP Agriculture Contribution (Approximate) 61% of GDP Export Contribution 61% of GDP (Approximate) Life Expectancy at Birth 55.5 yrs Maternal Mortality (per 1000 live births ) 994 Child Mortality (per 1000 live births ) 72 Literacy Rate (10 years and 56% m: 65.5% above): f: 46.3% Supporting Electoral Cycle Sustainable Livelihood and Inclusive Financial Sector Environment and Climate Change Youth Empowerment and Employment Strengthening Public Administration Reform & Promote Civic Engagement (National) National Visioning Economic Policy & Management (National) III UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

4 Voters queue on elections day A trainee (woman) demonstrates the use of power-tiller in Beajah Women farmers weeding rice field in Guamu, Kokoyah Introduction: UNDP Country Programme in 2011 The year 2011 was the penultimate year of UNDP Country Programme While consolidating the gains made in the past years, in 2011, UNDP remained strategic in its support to the government in realizing its recovery and development goals. Organized around two main pillars, namely Democratic Governance and Pro-poor Economic Growth, the UNDP 2011 programme was fully aligned with the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) priorities and responsive to the emerging needs and concerns. Advancing gender equality and Women, Peace, and Security, ensuring conflict sensitivity and strengthening the capacity of public institutions were integral to all interventions in each of the two areas. In conformity with the Country Programme Action Plan (CPAP) and the priorities set-forth in the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), UNDP s assistance in 2011 in the area of democratic governance was structured around responsive and transparent governance institutions, consolidation of peace and strengthening justice and security sector institutions, expanding people s participation, including that of women, youth and rural population and advancing decentralization. Specific thrusts were placed on providing support to the holding of free, fair and peaceful elections, promotion of justice, human rights, security and rule of law, public sector reform and strengthening public service delivery, particularly at the local level. A major focus of the work in the area of pro-poor economic development was fostering inclusive growth and strengthening policy environment. In 2011, UNDP rendered full support to the national visioning exercise, the government s longer-term vision for macro-economic development, and the development of the medium-term growth strategy, the Agenda for Transformation through Action. Support to expanding choices and opportunities of ordinary people, particularly the poor, women and youth received equal emphasis. While government and state institutions are the primary stakeholders of UNDP s projects and programmes, its achievements and delivery are the results of close co-operation and partnership with donors, other UN agencies and the United Nations Mission in Liberal (UNMIL), the private sector, CSOs and Women s organizations. In 2011, UNDP continued to apply a hybrid of Direct and National Implementation Modalities in delivering on its mandates and results. 1 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

5 Deepening democracy, participation and voice: Liberia s elections 2011 to address tactical challenges in real time and avoiding any misgivings on technical matters. The broad-based partnership among major electoral partners, including UNMIL, the United States Agency for International Development (USAIID), the International Foundation for Elections Systems (IFES) and the contributing donors to the Basket Fund, namely the European Union (EU), Japan, Germany, Sweden, Spain and Denmark was extremely useful for effective delivery on the elections targets. Technical information was readily exchanged and implementation challenges were openly debated among representatives of UNDP, IFES, NEC and donors, fostering a consensus- based problem solving approach and a deeper understanding of the complexity of the process for all stakeholders. This complemented the strong dayto-day working relationship that was cultivated by UNDP and IFES. With a team of multi-disciplinary technical experts headed by a Chief Elections Technical Advisor, UNDP s assistance enabled NEC to manage the entire electoral cycle in a professional, transparent and credible manner (see the case study). The international community, particularly the observers commended the effort and acknowledged the free and fair environment in which the elections took place. The 2011 general elections was a litmus test for the democracy and stability in Liberia. It was the first nationally managed election since the cessation of the civil crisis in Hence, the significance of the capacity of the national institution responsible for holding the elections, namely the National Elections Commission (NEC) to manage such complex exercise, address legal impasses, ensure full engagement of other key institutions, particularly security apparatus, political parties, create a levelplaying-field to hold free, fair and peaceful elections was put to the test. The post-electoral violence in neighboring Ivory Coast in 2010 left genuine concerns on the part of the authority, to contain violence before, during and after the elections, in particular. Continued co-ordination and collaboration with national security apparatus, political parties, UNMIL and other international partners, enabled NEC to hold the elections without any major incident. Strengthening women s participation across the electoral processes and addressing gender issues were among the key priorities, which needed the political will as well as technical competence. Besides, the technical expertise/support received from UNDP, a Gender Desk with a full time staff was established at NEC to augment the efforts and address NEC s internal capacity issues. In addition, engaging the media, in a manner that promotes peaceful participation and healthy debate of all concerned, was a priority. Unlike 2005 when UNMIL provided vital management support, in 2011, UNDP played a key Supporting the election cycle is a key component of the European Union s (EU) governance portfolio in Liberia. Working together with other donors to support the organization of the 2011 elections, and further capacity development of the National Elections Commission, became more manageable thanks to good collaboration with the UNDP. Tomas NIKLASSON European Union Liberia Office role in providing operational and technical assistance to the NEC. UNDP was also in charge of managing financial resources contributed by donors, commonly known as the Basket Fund. UNDP worked collaboratively with UNMIL and other international partners and managed the delicate balance between extending full cooperation to NEC and yet ensuring NEC s full control over the process. This helped to ensure co-ordination at all times, allowing partners A successful partnership of UNDP/UN, NEC and Donors delivered: Timely procurement of and making elections equipment, items available at all levels national, local, despite procedural and infrastructural challenges. Registration of 1,793,584 voters of which about 49% women, which represents the current demographic male-female ratio. Establishment of a Gender Desk at NEC and training of 453 women aspirants. Referendum held on 23 August Credible, peaceful elections held on 11 October and presidential run-off on 8 November Partnership and collaboration were factors leading to overall success of the 2011 Elections Heartfelt thanks and appreciation go to our international partners, including UNDP, UNMIL, EU, IFES, AU, ECOWAS, the People and Government of the United States of America, Japan, Germany, Sweden, Spain, Denmark and the Government and People of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for their unflinching support to the 2011 electoral process which led to the resounding success that all well-meaning Liberians celebrate today. NEC Acting Chairperson, Madam Elisabeth Nelson National Elections Commission announcing the final results of the 2011 Elections in the presence of the president elect, the diplomatic corps and all senators and house representatives elect. 3 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

6 Beneath the success lie co-ordination and collaboration: partnership at its best On October 11, 2011, nearly 1.8 million Liberians exercised their constitutional right to vote in the first nationally organised Presidential and Parliamentary elections since the end of the country s civil conflict in 2003, marking a significant milestone in Liberia s post-war democratic development. Women constituted 49% of total voters, proportionate to registered women voters. UNDP and other international partners provided co-ordinated, technical and operational assistance in support to the National Elections Commission and the Government of Liberia. Between October 2010 and November 2011, resources from the UNDP-Managed Basket Fund of December 16, 2010 Liberian National Police deployed to county magisterial warehouses to secure facilities and equipment ahead of voters registration materials February 15 Voters registration OMR forms retrieved August 4 Referendum materials delivered and LNP deployed to magisterial regions October 11 ELECTION DAY US $27 million was utilized to update Liberia s voters roll; undertake voters registration; capacitating government institutions and CSOs; train women aspirants in political participation and leadership; fund civic educators to conduct peer education and create awareness on women s role and participation; hold a national referendum on provisions of the constitution relating to elections; and procure, distribute and retrieve electoral materials for the October elections and November second-round, run-off. Each and every event involved multiple stakeholders and some of them involved complex logistical operations. October 2010 Technical Team Arrives January 10, 2011 Voters registration begins July 10 and 22 training materials /manuals arrive from Ghana via UNMIL B September - 10 October Distribution of electoral materials and deployment of LNP Logistics: one plan four times over NEC and UNDP in close co-ordination with UNMIL planned four nation-wide delivery and retrieval schedules for materials and deployment of LNP officers for voters registration, the referendum, elections and run-off election. During each phase, the NEC was responsible for providing transportation for materials and personnel. UNMIL provided air support for the only most remote regions in Liberia, where infrastructure is non-existent or in serious disrepair. With UNDP s support, NEC produced packing plans Elections load and unload metric tons of material were delivered and retrieved. 155 metric tons of voters registration equipment and materials delivered. 82,012 polling staff were transported across Liberia 5,524 law enforcement officers were deployed. for training and voting materials and voting precinct kits; delivery/retrieval plans were drawn up for air, water and land transport and staff were trained in tracking movement and ensuring safe custody. During delivery, windows of between two and three weeks before and after each event, materials were transported from two of NEC s warehouses in Monrovia to 19 magisterial areas across Liberia and onwards to 1,780 voters registration centers and voting precincts following voters registration. Some materials, such as fabric voting screens, were recycled between voters registration and the run-off, but each plan had to factor new ballot boxes being delivered to the 4,461 polling stations throughout the country. Each stage was a rehearsal for the following, more complex event. The same base plan was used in every exercise, but modified in view of changing weather and infrastructure conditions and increasing volume of materials, numbers of polling staff and security personnel. Trucks, pick-ups, canoes, bikes and porters were hired by UNDP with UNMIL helicopters providing air support to remote regions where poor roads prevented delivery by trucks. Almost five times the number of trucks and three times the number of pick-ups were used for the election than voters registration to account for changes in weight and volume of electoral materials and personnel, with three times the number of ballot boxes required for the Presidential, House of Representatives and Senate elections. To enable every community in Liberia the opportunity to vote during the rainy season, the number of bikes, canoes and porters increased by approximately 90%, 570% and 230% respectively, between the voters registration exercise and the elections in October. Despite extreme conditions, the plans designed by NEC held for each stage of the electoral process without any major disruption or incident. A co-ordinated and collaborative approach to the process, coupled with the commitment and dedication of NEC, unremitting support of UNDP and other international partners turned the 2011 general elections in-to a success. November 8-11 Run-off election and retrieval of ballot papers October 12 -November 7 Ballot retrieval and distribution of ballots for the second round run-off UNDP Resident Representative Soumaré Retrieval of elections items monitors Voters Registration process 5 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

7 Reaching out to citizens: decentralization and local development received awareness and on-the-job training in participatory planning and community driven development as part of commencing decentralized planning and development management. Over 900 community members 60% women across nine counties benefited from US$ 240,000 worth of Local Development Fund investment. Reaching out to citizens, prioritizing their agenda, meeting their needs, promoting parity in resource distribution, bringing institutions and public services closer to people, being the main motto of the decentralization programme of Liberia, with UNDP s support, the government made huge efforts to ensure full participation of citizens men, women and youth, in the process. Key results of UNDP s support to decentralization in 2011 at a glance: Participants at the LDLD Implementation Strategy Technical Training President endorsed the National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance (NPDLG); A Ten Year Strategy and Broad Action Plan for the implementation of the National Decentralization Policy delivered; Decentralization Bill for Constitutional Amendment to elect local governments forwarded to the Legislature; Commenced formulation of deconcentration plans by nine ministries consistent with their mandates and functions review as part of the public sector reform; Decentralization units established in ministries Over 300 personnel of 12 line and oversight ministries and 15 county administrations underwent decentralization related training for local governments; seven training manuals in Public Financial Management for local government developed. Nine of 15 Counties have rolled out the preparatory functions for decentralization in terms of institutional strengthening, systems and procedure Decentralization is an important PRS focus and a crucial ingredient for democratization, peacebuilding and national reconciliation in Liberia. With the aim of making the government more receptive, responsive and accountable, the Government of Liberia began its journey for administrative, political and fiscal decentralization in The process has been jointly spearheaded by the Governance Commission (GC) and the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA). UNDP supported the government in this very important journey from the onset. In collaboration with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), UNDP extended its technical support and co-operation through the Liberia Decentralization and Local Development (LDLD) programme. Despite 2011 being the elections year, the GC and MIA were determined to drive the agenda and together delivered the National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance (NPDLG) reaching a major benchmark. The policy was officially endorsed by the President of the Republic in September 2011, signifying a major success of UNDP s support to the government (see the case study below). While the policy instruments were being devised and vetted, the GC and MIA in collaboration with the Ministries of Planning and Economic Affairs and Finance continued to make inroads for deconcentration and to capacitate institutions to meet the impending change and challenges associated with that. In 2011, massive training and orientation porgramme was undertaken to strengthen the capacity of the relevant institutions and individuals in readiness to effectively deal with the on-going and forthcoming changes. Technical knowledge and skills were backed by the provision of equipment and access to technology including provision of VSATs to three county administrations as part of strengthening e-governance. Over 300 staff 33% women of 12 line ministries and 15 county administrations were provided with training and orientation during the year in planning and community driven development. Additionally, over 850 community participants across nine counties Never before we could decide for ourselves We now know that development is our right. We also know that women should be in the forefront and directly benefit from development projects James Duo, a Youth Activist from Beajah Community in Bomi County giving an account of benefit brought to his community by Local Development Fund 7 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

8 Liberia National Decentralization Policy: People s Agenda Capacity for parity The formulation of the National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance (NPDLG) and its approval by the Government of Liberia in September 2011 is one of the successes of UNDP Liberia under the Liberian National Decentralization and Local Development Program (LDLD). LDLD is widely recognized as a national programme of innovations focusing on supporting decentralization, its policy and legal framework and establishing public financial management and planning procedures at the local level. In retrospect, the road to developing the NPDLG was long and intense. However, what can be described as its unique process and success in national ownership and leadership, was ensuring that stakeholders from every part of Liberia was involved and had a say in the policy making process. The Governance Commission (GC), in collaboration with the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Planning and Economic Affairs went from district to district conducting consultations on local governance, citizens participation, development planning and decentralization. From these consultations emerged the County Development Agenda-s (CDAs), the local component of the Poverty Reduction Strategy. Following this, career public servants and local government experts met at the GC and reflected upon the views of the Liberian people on how political, fiscal and administrative authorities can be shared between the national government and local level institutions, and how local government will function under such a system. This process was further informed by consultations with Liberian experts from diverse backgrounds, leaders of political parties and the Legislature resulting in the first draft that was gender responsive. A high-level Liberian delegation consisting of Legislators, Ministers and Government Officials undertook a study tour to have first-hand knowledge of decentralization processes, the benefits, challenges and sequencing. In order to further strengthen the peoples ownership of the Policy, the GC held a second round of nation-wide consultations to validate the policy with citizens in the counties bringing together chiefs, local government officials, civil society, women s organizations, media, and political party leaders to ensure that the draft Policy indeed reflects the aspirations and priorities of Liberians. It is estimated that over one and half million persons across the length and breadth of the Country were effectively reached through electronic and print media. National, regional and community radio talk shows, decentralization street dramas and jingles in English and 14 vernaculars besides numerous town hall and community meetings were also held. There were also focus group discussions, inter-university debates and talk shows held for high school students, to ensure that the voices of youth were heard. Once the final draft of the policy was complete, the GC and MIA went back to the people. The nation-wide decentralization policy dissemination and validation dialogues were a resounding success in terms of the quality and coverage of participation. There was general consensus that decentralizing political, fiscal and administrative powers to local authorities was the best democratic alternative to foster people-centered governance in Liberia s reconstruction and development. The signing of the National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance by the President of the Republic in September 2011 was the culmination of years of a long journey of Liberian men, women and youth for the Policy formulation process. County officials attending training in local elected leadership The government emphasizes the role and capacity of county authorities to advance national recovery and sustainable peace. Enhanced capacity at the local level, in particular to provide administrative and technical leadership, effectively utilize funds, improve public service delivery, manage and account for public finances is equally important to address and overcome disparities, the urban-rural divide, in terms of citizens access to public services, living standards and human wellbeing. In support of the government to realize PRS goals, during the current porgramme cycle , UNDP, in partnership with the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA), UNICEF and the UNHCR intensified its efforts to enhance capacity and visibility of local administration both at the county and district levels. Employing a targeted approach, UNDP supported the local authorities through the existing UN mechanism County Support Team (CST). CST, by design is a multisectoral programme and it relates to all sectors, and institutions operating at the local level, which places it in a unique position to influence change and promote equity across all sectors, an underpinning of the government s decentralization agenda. In 2011, CST was focused on three key areas relevant to capacity of local authorities and institutions: (i) administrative, technical and institutional capacity for improved service delivery; (ii) enhanced County Information Management and Monitoring and Reporting System (CIMM) for evidencebased planning and accurate reporting purposes; and (iii) rehabilitation and construction of local infrastructure at the county and district levels, all basic requirements for operational effectiveness. Behind the success of the implementation of the programme was an effective partnership and collaboration with the Ministries of Internal Affairs and Planning and Economic Affairs, the Office of County Superintendants in all 15 counties and sister UN entities, particularly UNMIL Civil Affairs Office in counties, UNHCR, UN-HABITAT, UNICEF and UNOPS among others. The programme was able to make an impact upon the context in which the national and local administration operates. An improvement in performance, particularly capacity for planning and co-ordination was evident. With improved 9 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

9 understanding of the challenges, county officials were better able to draw plans which were effective and responsive to the situations on the ground, a prerequisite for effective service delivery. The programme was also able to make a difference in operational infrastructure and abilities of local authorities especially with the restoration of county and district administrative buildings and provision of office equipment including transportation. With over 1,200 trained local government officials in Local Elected Leadership, Financial Management, Economic Development, Civic Education throughout the 15 counties, the local government authority, particularly the Office of the County of Superintendents were better equipped to deliver on their mandates. The impact of the trainings was visible as they began to gradually take over responsibility of security, reconstruction and development in the counties. Also evident was the ability of the CDOs to track and report on PRS/CDAs implementation which was boosted through targeted trainings and deployment of skilled human resources. The establishment of the CIMM made a huge difference in capacitating the county authorities to plan, respond to and monitor progress. The change in the quality of plans and reporting was remarkable. This was evident in the way the counties were able to monitor the implementation of the PRS and CDAs and input in to the PRS-II formulation exercise. The distribution of newly developed County Information Packs (CIPs) further strengthened the ability of the county authorities to provide authentic data for various planning and policy formulation exercises, including CDAs, PRS-II, the NPDLG and to report on local situation, including the cases of SGBV, access to justice and other public services by citizens. Active engagement of citizens in county development plans was a direct impact of the CST programme interventions. Various consultations that were undertaken at the district, county and regional levels provided the platform for citizens to express their views, concerns and articulate their priorities in the County Development Agendas (CDAs), which subsequently informed the PRS-II drafting process and the NPDLG exercise. UNDP s support to strengthening the capacity of County Administration, to decentralization process has been very helpful. They provided staffing for the counties, which boosted operational capacity and effectiveness, in particular the support in the form of County Development Officers, has been of particular help; support to monitoring and evaluation has improved the quality of data and reports; training and administrative support enhanced capacity in the area of utilization of fund, managing public finances. In Grand Bassa, the citizens and county authority have felt the impact of UNDP s support. The City of Edina, Deso Town, for example, have immensely benefited from UNDP s support. In Edina, comparing to what was there in terms of basic infrastructure, services three years ago, the city has transformed with health facility, police depot, with the support of UNDP. Delivering capacities for planning, monitoring and results effectiveness During the first years of the Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) and the County Development Agenda (CDA) implementation, sector progress reports produced by line-ministries were often proven unreliable and/or inconsistent. The lack of reliable data and timely production of reports on PRS/ CDAs deliverables used to be a major challenge. The absenteeism of line-ministry officers at the county level, inadequate monitoring and evaluation (M&E) and reporting capacity at the national and county levels, lack of resources and encouragement to conduct field visits by county officers, as well as insufficient control from the central level, all resulted in poor monitoring and reporting. Information were compromised at the county or national level. Double counting of data/information was widespread, and intermittent reporting from partners, particularly NGOs, were among the major challenges which contributed to poor quality of reporting at the local level. The need for a robust monitoring and validation mechanism to ensure quality and reliability of reports generated by line-ministries became crucial. The capacity of the county administration to independently monitor and report on PRS and CDA deliverables was vital. Introduction of the County Information Management and Monitoring System (CIMM), which was supported by CST, offered a solution to overcome this challenge. The CIMM entails direct support to the establishment and well functioning of County level information management, monitoring and reporting system, assisting county authorities to plan and stay abreast of development challenges in the counties, including monitoring of the implementation of the CDAs and the PRS. The CIMM embedded human resources 15 M&E Assistants and 225 Field Monitors, 1 and 15 per county respectively and equipment IT, vehicles and motorbikes within the newly created County Development Offices enabling them to track the PRS and CDA deliverables independently from lineministries. This paved the way to increased reliability and improved quality of the reports produced at the county as well as national levels. All Field Monitors, M&E Assistants and County Development Officers (CDOs) have received intensive trainings in the PRS and CDA monitoring. The Field Monitors track the PRS and CDA deliverables in their respective communities and districts using standard PRS/CDA tracking tools developed by the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs MoPEA. The CDOs, MoPEA s, eyes and ears, on the ground, cross-examine and verify reports produced by the Field Monitors and line ministries for validation purposes. Discrepancies, if found, are discussed in local level PRS Pillar meetings, and, whenever required, field visits are organized to reconcile differences emanating from reports of CDOs and line-ministry officers before they are forwarded to the national level. Madam Etweda Cooper, Superintendant, Grand Bassa County County officials at local development training 11 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

10 Delivering Justice and Security Inauguration of Women and Child Protection Unit Headquarters; Norwegian State Secretary Espen Barth Eide, Liberia Minster of Justice Christiana Tah, UNDP Country Director Dominic Sam, UNMIL DSRSG Henrietta Mensah Bonsu and Head of UNOPS Lakis Papastavrou. In post-conflict Liberia, the government emphasizes the role and capacity of justice and security sector institutions for political stability, peace and economic prosperity. UNDP s support to the Justice and Security sector is composed of an array of activities related to strengthening civil institutions, including the Ministry of Justice (MoJ), and the Judiciary; providing professional trainings and capacity building support to the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Bureaus of Immigration and Naturalization (BIN) and Corrections and Rehabilitation (BCR); and engagement of civil society, particularly women, youth, community leaders, and the media to encourage inclusivity, participation; facilitate dialogue, promote cohesion in community and a sense of ownership. The programme is fully aligned with the Government- UNMIL transition plan, integral to which are security, rule of law and national reconciliation, and supports implementation of the Liberia Peacebuilding Priority Plan. In 2011, UNDP s support was focused on improved capability and public outreach of institutions; enhanced public awareness and access to justice; maintaining peace and stability particularly in border areas and during elections; and the promotion of Women, Peace and Security (WPS) agenda. Enhanced operationally effective physical presence and expansion of community outreach in at least 50% of the country was a 2011 annual target for LNP. Strengthening the professional capability of the Police Support Unit (PSU) was prioritized to meet the target. With 432 PSU staff 23% women trained in crowd control and police tactics, LNP was better equipped to provide security services across Liberia. Having the training completed prior to the national elections in October 2011, LNP was also better prepared to provide critical support that was required to maintain stability and peace during the elections. Physical infrastructure is key for effective service delivery and outreach. In the course of 2011, with the provision of equipment and building/upgrading the physical facilities, UNDP supported the expansion and improvement of the operational capacity and physical presence of a number of entities including the National Police Training Academy (NPTA), Women and Child Protection Unit (WACP), Emergency Response Unit (ERU) of LNP, BIN, Judiciary and the Prison. The construction of new magisterial courts in Nimba, refurbishment of prison in Grand Bassa, correction centers in Grand Gedeh and the judicial circuit court in Lofa contributed to enhanced physical presence and expansion of the judiciary and other institutions at the local level, creating conditions for improved service delivery and citizens access to the justice system. In the course of the year, the infrastructure and operational effectiveness of the NPTA, the role of which is critical to professionalize LNP staff personnel, turned the institution into a modern service provider. With the construction and refurbishment of student dormitories separate for women and men, kitchen, sports facility, and clinic, at the end of the year, NPTA was better equipped to deliver on its mandate. NPTA authority was appreciative of UNDP s partnership and the donors support they received through UNDP. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Liberia has been very much instrumental in the professional development of the Liberia National Police the sponsorship of the nationwide awareness campaign of the Community Policing, the printing of its manual to ensure that all police officers have access to a copy, the printing of four thousand (4,000) copies of the LNP Duty Manual, to ensure that police officers remain on course as it relates to their functions. The erecting of modern structures at the NPTA to facilitate training. The NPTA can now professionally train many more LNP officers to increase its strength and personnel of other security apparatus simultaneously under a more professional and relaxed atmosphere. The procurement of fleets of vehicles by UNDP to enhance quick response on the part of the Liberia National Police and the Bureau of Immigration & Naturalization We really cannot recount the contributions of the UNDP in the development of the LNP into a professional police organization as her effort is enormously and equally timely Attorney Samuel F. Dakana Deputy Director/Commandant National Police Training Academy NPTA Women Dormitory 13 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

11 Operational effectiveness and outreach of institutions such as LNP, BIN largely depends on their ability to instantly respond to situations. In that respect means of transportation and communication constitutes a vital support. The provision of additional 10 vehicles, 32 motor bikes, 35 radios for BIN and 30 vehicles, 90 motor bikes for LNP in 2011 made a significant difference in their ability to rapidly respond to emergency situations. The enhanced strength of BIN was particularly strategic given the nature of their job which relates to both national and regional security and at a time when the situation along the Liberia-Ivory Coast border was tense. The role of community members, local institutions is vitally important to control movement and misuse of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW). However, their engagement is largely determined by their knowledge of the consequences of misuse of SALW. In an effort to enhance community participation and engagement in the prevention and control of SALW, in 2011, LNP in partnership with CSOs launched awareness raising campaigns and trainings in select counties. Radio broadcast, sports, cultural events, seminars were used/held to bring communities together and spread messages. Local youth were trained in crime reporting, providing them with knowledge, ideas, skills and the much needed confidence. The efforts brought together youth, women, community elders, local authorities, CSOs, as well as the media, and resulted in the collection and destruction of small arms in Lofa County (see matrix for details). The collective efforts also brought new development to communities. Projects such as Town Halls, Airstrip Terminals, Multi-purpose Community Centers were built in six counties, representing a direct impact of the awareness campaign and community mobilization. In Paynesville in Montserrado County, the community awareness led to the launch of a local peace movement. Under the theme, Peace starts with me, society minus armed violence equal peace and development. It represented the community s own home-grown campaign for the prevention of armed violence. Weapon Nov- Dec LNP received vehicles to boost elections security Lorma Chiefdom Quadu Gboni Chiefdom Others Rifle Ammunitions Magazine/cartridges/ Accessories Bombs/Grenade/ UXOs Multi-purpose youth centre in New Kru Town, Monrovia Total Source: UNDP Lofa sub-office quarterly report, 2011 BIN receives uniforms and other accessories ahead of elections WACP Headquarters turned over in April 2011 Renovation of judicial circuit court in Voinjama, Lofa County Access to justice begins with access to information. Country wide awareness campaign of MoJ was instrumental to broadcast information pertinent to rule of law across the country. The campaign was part of MoJ s on-going efforts to improve citizens access to information and aimed at facilitating their improved access to justice. Using local radio stations, the most popular and accessible means of communication at the local level, messages on different aspects of rule of law, human rights, role of justice and security sector institutions, etc. were disseminated. The process was empowering in that it engaged citizens across all 15 counties. Women and Child Protection Unit: a friend in need Women, Peace and Security (WPS ) agenda is an integral part of UNDP s work. Strengthening women s participation, improving their safe access to justice and ensuring their protection and safety were among the priorities. The Women and Child Protection (WACP) unit of LNP, which was established with UNDP s support, provides a link for the women and girls to access LNP and the rest of the institutions in the sector and their services. In 2011, UNDP supported the expansion of WACP in 10 new locations in counties, thus expanding LNP s outreach in communities. The expansion of WACP believes to have uplifted the image of the entire LNP as a service provider. As the ACP Vera V. K. Manly, Head of WACP noted, the UNDP support to build and equip WACP Units has helped change the face of LNP from a Force to a service provider, particularly for Women and Girls and survivors of SGBV The WACP headquarters facility was also completed and turned over to LNP in The results outlined above were delivered in partnership with the Governments of Liberia, Norway, Sweden, Ireland, Japan, Germany, UK and the UN Peace Building Fund and OECD. WPS refers to the UN SCR Liberia National Action Plan (LNAP) is the operational guidelines for the implementation of 1325 in Liberia. 15 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

12 National capacity, national ownership NCDS: a longer-term approach to capacity development Capacity development is an integral part of UNDP s work. In post-conflict Liberia, the gap between the demand for capacity to drive the recovery and economic growth and the ability of state institutions to deliver is huge. To provide a long term solution, UNDP supported the government to develop a 10- year National Capacity Development Strategy (NCDS). The NCDS was endorsed by the cabinet in For the implementation of the NCDS, UNDP further strengthened its strategic partnership with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs (MoPEA). Resources human, technical and financial, were made available to ensure full operationalisation of the National Capacity Development Unit (NCDU), the co-ordination arm of the MoPEA, responsible for the implementation of the NCDS. In 2011 NCDU Over the past years Liberia has made significant progress in building confidence and capacity of national institutions. UNDP s programme support complemented the government s efforts to strengthen the capacity of institutions both at the national and local levels. In 2011, UNDP bolstered its efforts with dedicated staff and resources to support the government with the aim of making a transition from hybrid of direct and national implementation modality to a national implementation modality (NIM) only in the year Apart from providing training and guidance to national counterpart entities, the establishment of the National Implementation Management Support Unit (NIMSU) at MoPEA was a concrete achievement of UNDP s co-operation. The mandate of NIMSU is to ensure application of NIM in UN assisted programmes/ initiatives and in that provides Line Ministries and Agencies (LMAs) with National capacity for national ownership delivered and rolled out a NCDS implementation framework. It also provided vital leadership for the commencement of the strategic planning exercise to start mainstreaming capacity development (CD) initiatives into sector plans. Enhanced capacity of private sector entities and CSOs, strategic partners of the government for economic growth, employment creation and delivery of public services, were given due consideration in the process. Keeping sustainability of the impact of past efforts in view, in 2011, UNDP supported the continuation of the comprehensive mapping of the existing CD initiatives a critical activity for effective implementation of the NCDS. Dr. James F. Kollie Deputy Minister for Revenue Ministry of Finance Our strategic partnership with UNDP has been taken to a new level: the move from DIM to NIM is a testament of the gains that have been made by the Government of Liberia in terms of improving capacities (human and system) and the UNDP s preparedness to support our development efforts in a sustainable manner. the necessary support and guidance. The role of NIMSU is vitally important to establish full national ownership over national development agenda and processes. Over 60 technical staff from various sectors were trained in a number of areas to support the capacity of the LMAs for NIM roll out in 2013, Among the specialized areas that were covered by the training courses included financial management, programme development and implementation, procurement and results-based management. Capacity in those areas was critical for technical staff members of LMAs to confidently take over the programme management responsibility. Some of the trained staff members took part in UNDP s 2012 Annual Work Plan development exercise, a clear indication of the government s readiness for NIM. TOKTEN, LECBS: meeting immediate needs While the foundation for full implementation of the NCDS was being laid out, the on-going stop-gap measures to meet the immediate capacity needs and address the gaps were fully supported. In partnership with USAID, OSI and GoL, UNDP extended technical and financial support to the Secretariat based at the Civil Service Agency (CSA), which provides management support to special capacity development initiatives, namely Transfer of Knowledge through Expatriate Nationals (TOKTEN) and the Liberia Emergency Capacity Building Support (LECBS). As a result, the government entities were able to access high-level technical services necessary to manage their day-to-day business. To ensure that services provided by TOKTEN were relevant and useful, UNDP supported an independent evaluation of its second phase programme. The evaluation report was reviewed by all beneficiary entities and the final report was widely disseminated among stakeholders, including the donors. Also in the course of the year, UNDP supported an initiative to establish a database of qualified professionals to enable GoL institutions to access professional services within the shortest possible time. Upon completion in 2012, the database is expected to provide a buffer zone, while the long-term capacity gaps are gradually addressed by NCDU. Standardization: taking public service to a new level As Liberia strives to build institutions which are capable of meeting the challenges of the 21st century, the government deemed necessary to introduce modern standards of public service to national institutions. UNDP made the necessary resources available to ensure that the Senior Executive Services (SES) Project Implementation Unit at the CSA was fully supported and efforts were well co-ordinated. Assistance was also provided for further refinement of the SES M&E system enabling the SES Secretariat perform its administrative and financial obligations in a timely and efficient manner. The improvement in the M&E system significantly enhanced the quality of the monitoring and reporting of SES, particularly the CDOs who are based in counties. Strengthening pro-poor policies and strategies Integral to UNDP s support to national governments is policy advice. Liberia is no exception to this. As elsewhere, the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) underlines UNDP s overall policy approaches to pro-poor economic growth in Liberia. The efforts are equally informed by the ground realities, hence the centrality of conflict sensitivity and inclusivity of UNDP s policy support in Liberia. The year 2011 was a major turning point for Liberia s national economy. With a resumption of economic growth of 6.9%, the relative contained inflation from 7.5% in 2010 to 8.5% in 2011 and capital adequacy ratio of 22.8% against the set threshold of 10%, the country returned to the path of recovery from the economic setback suffered due to global financial downturn. The year 2011 was also a defining moment for Liberia, as the government launched its major planning exercises for medium and longerterm economic growth with the aim of becoming a middle-income country by At this critical juncture, what the Government needed most was informed analysis of its socio-economic development in the past and potential possibilities in the future. The retrospective studies, a contribution of UNDP to support the planning of the long-term national 17 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

13 vision, seemed to have provided that perspective. The findings of the exercise offered analysis and challenges and proposed options including multiple scenarios for economic growth which were fed into the PRS-Agenda for Transformation through Action planning exercise as well. As regards strategic interventions, providing technical support to the PRS process was one of the major preoccupations of UNDP in Continued support to and engagement with the government s development Pillars Technical Advisors (PTAs), who provided overall co-ordination to the implementation of the PRS-I and led the drafting of its successor, proved effective and strategic. The results review of the implementation of the PRS-I, outputs of which provided valuable inputs for the formulation of the PRS-II, was a contribution UNDP made. From monitoring and co-ordination of the process to provisions of substantive inputs various pillars and sectors, PRS-II formulation process hugely benefited from UNDP s sustained engagement. To ensure PRS-II takes full account of gender disparities and inequalities in various sectors and areas, UNDP made high-level technical advice and inputs available to MoGD and assisted it in priority setting and drafting of the results matrix and monitoring and evaluation framework for Gender Working Group. In the course of the year, UNDP worked closely with MoPEA to support government s efforts for MDGs. Intensified MDG awareness and advocacy campaign, particularly in counties through series of sensitization workshops and trainings of CSOs, enhanced internal capacity of MoPEA, including setting up of a dedicated MDG Desk, preparation for the launch of the MDGs Acceleration Framework (MAF), a tool to achieve MDGs at a faster pace and the selection of MDG five Improve Maternal Health for MAF roll out are some of the outcomes of UNDP MoPEA renewed collaboration for the achievement of MDGs. As part of its on-going support to strengthening aid effectiveness, in 2011, UNDP supported surveys on fragile states principles and Paris Deceleration. The results of the surveys informed the formulation of the Monrovia Roadmap, which served as a basis for the New Deal for Engagement in Fragile States. The development of the Liberia Industrial Policy in 2011 was another milestone in making policy environment enabling for business and industry to flourish. In anticipation of potential economic growth in the coming years the importance of such an instrument cannot be overemphasized. The policy is expected to add additional impetus to Liberia s economic drive as the country prepares to become a middle-income country by The formulation and validation of the Industrial Policy were supported by UNDP. In an effort to promote and gradually institutionalize gender mainstreaming in the government planning and budgeting exercises, the government has introduced a multi-pronged approach. From strengthening gender competencies of institutions to introducing new tools, generating sex-disaggregated data, the government has intensified its actions to give full effect to the provisions of the National Gender Policy, as well as to ensure that public goods and services serve the interests of all citizens, including women and girls equally. In 2011, the Ministry of Finance (MoF) initiated a process and held a Policy Workshop on Gender Responsive Budgeting. The workshop was a first step to lay the foundation for eventually conducting a gender review of the national fiscal exercises. The exercise was a joint MoF UNDP collaboration aimed at making the budget gender responsive. Reliable data and statistics are critical to the development of evidence-based policies and strategies. Ensuring availability and accessibility of relevant statistics and in that respect strengthening the capacity of relevant institutions as emphasized in the National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS), UNDP, as a trusted partner, has been working closely with LISGIS, in particular to strengthen its capacity for realization of NSDS goals. In 2011, UNDP emphasized enhanced capacity of both LISGIS and the County Statistics and Information Offices (CSIOs). In particular, staff capacity relevant to data collection, including the use of GPS, information co-ordination among government entities at the local level was prioritized, and training provided. CSIOs staff were introduced to the concept of gender statistics and the importance WPS refers to the UN SCR Liberia National Action Plan (LNAP) is the operational guidelines for the implementation of 1325 in Liberia. of sex-disaggregated data in planning and budgeting exercises. At the national level, co-operation with LISGIS resulted in its full engagement in the production and delivery of Liberia s first ever Baseline on Gender Statistics. MoPEA, MoGD, LISGIS staff are out in Bomy County applying newly acquired knowledge to gather sexdisaggregated data Of the essence: Women, peace and security and gender equality In recent years, the Government of Liberia has made significant strides in advancing gender equality and women s empowerment. However, the gains are observed mainly in the policy arena and sharp gender inequality is evident in all basic indicators of human development. Women and girls have limited access to education (33.7%) and health care services. Maternal mortality rate is exceptionally high, 894 per 100,000 live births. Sexual and gender-based violence still remains a major threat to peace and security of women and girls. Inadequate capacity of institutions is a major barrier to institutionalize gender mainstreaming slowing down the implementation of policy instruments. This has been exacerbated by the absence of sex-disaggregated data, gender statistics, affecting planning and budgeting exercises in particular. Women, Peace and Security (WPS) and gender equality are central to UNDP s work. UNDP partners with MoGD and other relevant entities, women s organizations and civil society to strengthen the implementation of the National Gender Policy (NGP), UN SCR 1325, 1820 and other instruments, including the Convention on the Elimination of all forms of Violence against Women (CEDAW). In 2011, UNDP supported MoGD in a number of strategic areas to strengthen its work on WPS and gender issues. Both policy advocacy and provision of technical assistance were intensified. Women s political participation, particularly in the context of impending national elections, support to the PRS-II formulation (refer to the pro-poor policy section), combating SGBV and addressing sex-disaggregated data gaps were among the focus areas, while strengthening gender competency of institutions remained an inherent element of all other UNDP interventions. 19 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

14 In the National Gender Policy (NGP), the lack of sex-disaggregated data was identified as a major barrier for gender responsive planning and budgeting. In 2011, UNDP supported the Ministry of Gender and Development (MoGD) in its effort to address and overcome the data gap. With the technical support from UNDP, MoGD, in partnership with the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-information Services (LISGIS), delivered the first ever Baseline on Gender Statistics in Liberia. While MoGD provided the overall lead, LISGIS played an important role, ensuring the availability of secondary data to the international Gender and Statistics Consultant who was engaged to lead the technical aspect of the process. A team of technical staff from MoGD and LIS- GIS worked closely with the international specialist with the aim to develop and retain capacity within the institutions. For institutional capacity building and longer-term sustainability, a methodology and a framework for the generation and use of sex-disaggregated data were also delivered, and a pool of GoL staff members (MoGD, MoPEA, LISGIS) was trained to provide technical backstopping. Partnership with UNDP is important for MoGD to advance gender equality and women s empowerment in Liberia. For example, with UNDP s support, we delivered the first ever Gender Statistics Baseline in Liberia. Honorable Julia Duncan-Cassell Minister Ministry of Gender and Development Coalition of Women, Peace Organizations and Activists carried out a series of peace-building activities to provide a firm ground to maintain peace and calm before, during and after the elections. UNDP worked closely with this coalition and provided support to strengthen women s diverse roles and participation in the electoral process as well as to reduce risks of electoral violence. Under the leadership of Angie Brooks International Centre for Women s Empowerment Leadership Development International Peace and Security (ABIC), the coalition members engaged youth, student associations and the media. They also lobbied political party leaders, NEC leadership, LNP and various regional and international entities including the UN. Women s collective efforts culminated into the establishment of a physical space called, Women s Situation Room (WSR) during the elections. With over 100 trained national and international observers on the ground, most of whom were women, WSR monitored and provided instant response to any emerging situations on the day of elections. The Women Situation Room is a process that embraces women and youth (society s most vulnerable) in the implementation of the fundamental tool of governance, elections. It allows them to own their elections regardless of their personal political beliefs, do their civic duty to monitor their electoral process, and have them actively engaged in maintaining the peace and stability of their country. This is UNSCR 1325 in action!!! The establishment and work of the Women s Situation Room in 2011 was supported by UNDP. We greatly value UNDP s support to WSR which has led to a new Partnership for Peace. Cllr. Yvette Chesson-Wureh Establishment Co-ordinator, ABIC and the Leader of Women s Situation Room Elections, peace-building and women s political participation In an unprecedented event, over 40 women organizations and networks came together to establish a coalition for peaceful elections. Under a collective banner with the theme, Peace Is In Our Hands this Women s Situation Room In Action Women s Situation Room In Action 21 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

15 The WSR remained engaged beyond the elections of 11 October and continued its efforts until after the presidential run-off was held. The commitment of and efforts by Liberian women to promote peace, reject violence and enhance women s active participation in electoral process established this concept, the Women s Situation Room, which has begun rapidly gaining root. This process has been recognized by the African Union as a best practice and ABIC has been tasked to replicate it Africa wide. This replication was successfully done in Senegal and is now underway for the Sierra Leone elections which are scheduled for November 17, Prevention of SGBV for Promotion of Peace One of the major contributions of UNDP s policy advocacy on WPS and gender issues in 2011 was the shift in the government s strategy to tackle the challenges of SGBV. From heavy response to robust prevention and response was a major strategic move that was adopted by the government in the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Management of Gender-Based Violence in Liberia (GBV Action Pan). UNDP continued its advocacy in favor of stronger prevention mechanisms to reduce the incidence of SGBV. To support implementation of the Action Plan, UNDP endeavored to provide the government with practical means and mechanisms. The Baseline Survey for the Model County Initiative, which was conducted in Margibi County, was a step in that direction. Through the SGBV Joint Porgramme, UNDP also supported studies to determine effectiveness of current strategies to address SEA and SGBV in refugee camps and hostcommunities. The study was premised on the highnumber of incidence occurring in the camps and host communities. It exposed the limitations of existing strategies and proposed solutions to strengthen strategies to prevent SGBV incidence. Sustained awareness raising and sensitization efforts were made through workshops and media outreach in 12 counties. Focusing on GBV related legislations, prevention and response to GBV, the workshops and media outreach activities brought together men and women groups, traditional leaders, children welfare committee and rural women groups with over 500 people reached. Aspiring to Excel: The CO Gender Audit As UNDP strives to support the GoL in its pursuit to mainstream gender and advance WPS agenda, it also continues to enhance its own internal capacity. Vital contributions to promote government s agenda for gender equality were made in the course of UNDP endeavored to establish new baselines and benchmarks as to how well it is doing and where it requires injecting additional efforts and resources. To answer those questions, a gender audit of the Country Office (CO) was undertaken. Applying the ILO participative method, a UNGTG Gender Audit Team carried out the Gender Audit. The findings of the audit are meant to help shape the CO future work on gender. UNDP CD being briefed by Gender Auditors The Model County Initiative (MCI) is a multi-sectoral and multi-pronged approach to prevent Sexual and Gender-BASED Violence. It involves advocacy, communication, awareness building activities. The model is informed by local realities and local solutions and aimed at strengthening SGBV prevention mechanism in Liberia. The Model County Initiative is potential to provide a solution to elimination of GBV in Liberia. The concept of the model rests upon the principles of people s self-development ; the model was initiated in 2010 and is being piloted in Margibi County and implemented within the framework of the UN+GoL Joint Programme on SGBV. Empowering community to eradicate poverty Access to productive resources is a fundamental prerequisite for people to take charge of their own lives and development. The PRS ( ) was geared towards improving citizens access to means of production and opportunities. UNDP, as it is fundamental to its mandate, is supporting the Government of Liberia in its fight against poverty. Using innovative and inclusive approaches and strategies, in 2011, UNDP partnered with the government in advancing its poverty reduction agenda and realizing MDGs. Guided by the local realities and the government priorities, a cluster of UNDP s programmes and projects were directed to promote livelihood, create opportunities, and widen choices of the poor, vulnerable and marginalized people, particularly in rural Liberia. Ranging from rehabilitation of local roads and bridges, building savings, skills and knowledge to providing tools and technology, in 2011, UNDP s projects and interventions touched lives of thousands of poor women, men and youth across the country. Fundamental to its interventions was addressing gender disparities and discrimination and promoting participation of women and youth. Some of the highlights of UNDP s contribution to local poverty alleviation have been captured in this section. Local infrastructure development: improving people s access and livelihood opportunities A major engagement in the area of poverty alleviation was improving local infrastructure and basic facilities such as access roads, warehouses, waterwells, drying yards, markets, health care facilities to name a few, as a means of strengthening recovery and support livelihood of local communities. The table below presents a snapshot of the access roads and other facilities that were built with UNDP s support in Facility built/rehabilitated No of units Counties covered Donors built/kms Warehouse 7 3 (Bong, Nimba, Lofa) EU Drying Floor 10 3 (Bong, Nimba, Lofa) EU Hand-dug well 7 3 (Bong, Nimba, Lofa) EU Water Tower, Water well and submersible pump 3 3 (Bong, Nimba, Lofa) EU Latrine and Toilet Blocks 10 3 (Bong, Nimba, Lofa) EU Market 2 2 (Bong and Lofa) Danida (Rehabilitation) of Roads, Culverts and Bridges Rehabilitation of Irrigation system water dam 24 Culverts, 4 Bridges 23.5 Kms in Nimba County (connecting several towns and villages in two districts) 11 Kms in Lofa County (two districts benefited connecting two towns in each district) 20 Culverts and 2 bridges in Nimba County, and EU 1 Nimba County EU EU 23 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

16 Over 50% of beneficiaries, who were directly involved in the programmes, were women. Women were further supported to build savings and improve their business skills. Using the Village Savings and Loan Association (VS&LA) method. About 1,000 women and men were trained in microfinance scheme, almost 99% of whom were women. VS&LA, as a method, favours clients over the service providers the concept is based on building savings, therefore clients are not overburdened with the loans. Record keeping, savings and loan policies, Turning over of the newly built Edina health clinic To support realizing its aspiration to become a model city, in 2011, UNDP partnered with the city authority to formulate Edina s first ever strategic plan. Working closely with the Office of the City Mayor, an integrated and inclusive approach was adopted to address some of the key challenges the city was faced with. In collaboration with the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs (MoPEA) and its county representation and CDOs, UNDP facilitated the development of a five-year strategic plan, otherwise known as the Business Plan. A two-day consultation was held involving citizens of all 20 communities and operating in groups and group norms, procedures and constitutions, etc. are some of the areas where participants received new knowledge and skills in the course of the trainings. Five local women development organizations were engaged in the implementation of the intervention, which took place in seven counties: Sinoe, Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, Lofa, Maryland, Grand Bassa and Monserrado. During monitoring, it was revealed that women were practically using the skils and knowledge from the training and many of them were engaged in small trades. Changing tide in Edina Participants of Edina strategic planning exercise relevant county authorities to determine priorities and devise practical approaches to transform Edina in to a model city. The CDOs facilitated the process at the local level. The exercise also delivered a road map for the implementation of the Business Plan. In the course of the year, the City of Edina was further assisted to strengthen its basic service delivery mechanisms. In collaboration with UNOPS, a brand new health facility and a police depot were built and turned over to the city authority. Two full time national UN Volunteers were assigned to strengthen the planning and administrative capacity of the Office of the City Mayor. A Millennium Village approach to address multifaceted poverty in Kokoyah Throughout 2011, UNDP, in partnership with local authorities, supported communities in Kokoyah district (of Bong County) in their efforts to overcome poverty. Through the implementation of the Millennium Village Project an integrated approach to rural development, UNDP invested its resources in improving public service facilities, particularly in the areas of health and agriculture in this otherwise poorly endowed rural district. Construction and turning over of a fully equipped modern health clinic in Yolo town was a key Transporting hope to Kokoyah achievement in the health sector. The clinic embodies new hope safe delivery, reduced maternal and child mortality, and enhances community access to basic health care services. In the agriculture sector, the establishment of a Rice H.E. President E.J. Sirleaf at the turning over of the clinic Seed Bank was instrumental to bring the farmers together, which also provided the community with the much needed facility to store their seeds. Distribution of assorted tools such as wheel barrows, diggers, shovels, cutlasses, hoes, fertilizers, power saws and inputs, and provision of field-based training and extension services provided further boost and practical means to increase productivity. The intervention brought benefits to 10 communal farming groups comprised of 567 farmers, with about 20% women. The communal cultivation, which was an off-shoot of the process, turned out to be a support mechanism in the community. In 2011, the farmers collectively cultivated 19.1 hectors of land and harvested 38.5 Mt of produce. School children happily awaiting the moment Senator John Whitfield opening newly built Edina Police Depot VS&LA brought business: training beneficiaries are engaged in small trades and making profits 25 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

17 Promoting green living: prevention and mitigation our rice taste good the success of energy saving stoves Our rice taste good when we use ecostove because no smoke can smell on the rice says Esther Kiamue, a beneficiary of Eco-stove Project. At the request of the Ministry of Gender and Development, UNDP provided training to rural women and youth in production and use of energy efficient stoves. The eco-stove as it is commonly known in Liberia, is highly energy efficient and made of locally available materials such as clay, grass, and sand. It cuts down the use of charcoal and fuel wood by half reducing deforestation, a major factor causing climate change. It also reduces the health hazards, particularly of women as traditionally women are the ones who are responsible for cooking in Liberia, related to smoke, like eye infections, respiratory problems, etc. that are associated with the use of the traditional three-stone fire hearth or cooking method. It is also a low-cost method with per unit cost being less than US$ 5; hence making it affordable for all Liberians. and youth in climate change mitigation and adaptation exercises. As the implementation of this initiative took off, in 2011, the trained women and youth were able to make 70 durable eco-stoves which 17 households were benefitting from. The life span of the eco-stoves ranges between 3-5 years. For the long-term gain and to engage more communities, the project helped construct a training center and hired two trainers who were tasked to train more users of the stove. Users of the Eco-Stoves, most of whom are women, are elated over the gains made as it saves time, energy, costs less fuel, produces less smoke, poses no health hazard and has created an opportunity for income generation as well. Right now, I use less charcoal to cook my food and heat my water Esther went on saying. David Kamara, one of the youth beneficiaries shared his experience saying, for me, since I started using the eco-stove, my eyes don t give me problem anymore due to heavy smoke. Flood preparedness awareness training The PRS emphasizes the inter-linkages between sustainable protection and use of natural environment and safeguarding of livelihood, food security and human wellbeing. Ensuring proper administration and management of natural resources uses was prioritized. The government also recognized the importance of the protection against the risks of natural disaster and climate change. In line with the government s priority and to ensure environmental protection and strengthening capacity and response, in 2011, UNDP supported efforts of a number of GoL authorities and international actors. The partnership resulted in some tangible gains in the areas of disaster risks reduction (DRR), climate change, biodiversity conservation and sustainable land management. On climate change issues, UNDP s partnership with the National Climate Change Secretariat and support to the Technical Working Group on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) delivered a fully fledged REDD readiness proposal and mobilization of US$ 3.6 million for the preparedness of REDD programmes. In partnership with the Ministry of Gender and Development (MoGD) and local NGOs undertook a number of initiatives in addressing the nexus of gender, poverty and climate change. Through MoGD, 31 rural women were given new skills training to produce energy efficient stoves in Bomi County. The use of the stoves, according to women, the first-hand users, has reduced health hazards faced by women during heating and cooking (see details in case study). As part of the intervention, women were assisted to build a training centre which created new livelihood options for women and youth in the community. With the training center constructed by the project, the trained women and youth are now making stoves for income generation. In partnership with MoGD, UNDP supported training of 31 rural women and youth (26 women and 5 men) in this low-cost and energy efficient stoves, providing them with skills and means to earn income. The initiative also involved production of 100 pieces of eco-stoves, which provided the new learners practical experiences and income earning opportunity. This activity was aimed at examining the performance of the stoves vis-à-vis the consumption of fuel wood and charcoal for energy services and an effort to consciously involving women The beneficiaries claimed the utensils they use to cook their food do not easily get dirty these days. Comparing the use of a regular coal pot which costs approximately US$ 5 each to an eco-stove which costs less than US$ 5, beneficiaries confirmed that the use of the eco-stove is far less expensive. Now that a training center has been constructed, more women and youth are expected to receive training and continue the production of the eco-stoves as an alternative income generation scheme 27 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT

18 Training in making eco-stoves Using the Small Grants Programme of the Global Environmental Facility (GEF), UNDP supported several projects combining the protection of biodiversity, in particular the Pygmy Hippo and its habitat, and provision of livelihood for communities. Targeting mainly women groups, two local NGOs Initiative for Peace and Development and Forest Cry Liberia, carried out community conservations which led to community-led bio-diversity conservation initiatives combined with livelihood initiatives such as (i) animal husbandry and bee-keeping by women in Grand Gedeh County; (ii) micro-finance initiative for women in Rivercess County; (iii) cane rat farming, bee-keeping and cassava cultivation in Nimba County. The outcomes of these initiatives are linked to multiple issues related to environmental protection and sustainability, income generation and poverty, women s empowerment and social cohesion, all very critical issues for overall peace, stability and economic growth in Liberia. Taking advantage of the environmentally significant days and in collaboration with the Forestry Development Authority and Environmental Protection Agency, awareness and advocacy campaigns were carried out on environmental issues, Support also went to the exposure and participation of the national authority in international events including the Conference of the Parties (COP 17) on Climate Change held in Durban in One of the major outcomes of this engagement was the government s decision to invest national resources in environmental protection and adaptation for climate change. Through the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy, the government allocated over US$ 600,000 of the national budget to address coastal erosion in Grand Bassa County. A number of research studies on causes of land erosion in Liberia, sustainable forest harvest, integration of sustainable land management practice into agricultural extension programmes were funded with the aim of making empirical evidence available for policy advocacy and influence strategic interventions at the national as well as local levels. The findings of the studies were used for advocacy on strengthening institutional response to combat desertification. Due to its nature, the research methodology enabled the participation of diverse groups of people including community members, farmers, women, academic institutions, government authority, making the findings more credible. The development of the National Action Programme (NAP) to combat desertification was a direct outcome of the process. In partnership with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), UNDP supported the creation of a website on biodiversity in Liberia: The website is the knowledge repository and serves as a one-stop-shop for information on biodiversity conservation, creating easy access for users. 10 national staff were trained to build local capacity to maintain the website. Technical support was provided to the Liberia WASH Consortium for the drafting of the Executive Order for the establishment of the National Water Resources and Sanitation Board and the development of the organogram of the Water Supply and Sanitation Commission (WSSC). In 2011, the concrete outcome of the support, the Executive Order, was presented to the President of Liberia for signature. In partnership with the Liberia National Red Cross Society, UNDP trained 250 rural women and facilitated the establishment of eight rural women networks across Liberia in disaster risk management. The training offered them new knowledge in the areas of hazards, disaster risk and vulnerability. It also provided them with understanding the mechanism as to how early warning systems are established and utilized using traditional knowledge. It also and empowered them with skills for data collection on disaster loss to determine the frequency and seasonality for disaster preparedness. The training was empowering in that the women came to realize that their knowledge and experiences are of value and that they can play critical roles in disaster risk reduction, saving lives and reducing damage to properties from the impact of disaster. Six of the trained women also benefited from an international Rural women in DRR training exposure. They were afforded opportunity to share their knowledge and experiences with rural women s networks in Ghana and vise versa. 29 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT 2011 UNDP ANNUAL REPORT