Monrovia – In a bid to alleviate the suffering of flood victims across the country, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has provided a donation of US$440,465 to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which is responsible for disaster management in Liberia.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh (0886729972) – [email protected]
Over 9,000 residents from more than 1,000 homes in and around Liberia will benefit from this generous donation from ECOWAS. This funding will also serve to strengthen the NDMA and its implementing partner, the Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS).
As the rainy season persists, daily floods continue to leave numerous families homeless.
Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, ECOWAS Special Representative to Liberia, Madam Josephine Nkrumah, stated on Wednesday, September 27, that the commission’s decision is aimed at alleviating the suffering faced by flood victims and supporting the Liberian government’s efforts to rebuild communities that have been damaged.
Madam Nkrumah emphasized, “To translate the impact of ECOWAS on the people into the lives of the people, the ECOWAS Commission has decided to support carefully selected member states whose citizens have been displaced, lost their properties, and sometimes even their lives due to floods.”
She continued, “We are here in Liberia, and we are aware of some of the challenges posed by floods. As part of the process, ECOWAS requires individual member states within the ECOWAS Community to identify implementing partners who will, on behalf of the disaster management team, execute interventions funded by ECOWAS. In Liberia, the Disaster Management team has chosen the Liberian Red Cross Society as the implementing partner.”
“As a result,” she disclosed, “ECOWAS, following deliberations by the Disaster Management team, has allocated a total of US$440,465 to support the relief efforts in the aftermath of these floods.”
According to Madam Nkrumah, this comprehensive approach is designed to address both short-term and long-term rehabilitation efforts, laying the foundation for the affected communities to regain stability and rebuild their lives.
She reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to working closely with the Liberian government for the betterment of the country, and she urged both the NDMA and LNRCS to ensure that the funds are used for their intended purpose.
The Executive Director of NDMA, Henry O. Williams, commended ECOWAS for its timely contribution and pledged that his team would collaborate closely with LNRCS to ensure that the intended beneficiaries receive the assistance.
Mr. Williams emphasized that ECOWAS’ donation not only demonstrates the organization’s genuine commitment to standing in solidarity with its member states but also highlights the regional unity and collaboration that are at the core of its foundation.
Furthermore, Gregory T. Blamoh, the Secretary-General of LNRCS, stressed his institution’s unwavering commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability throughout the distribution process.
“As the affected communities in Liberia embark on the long and challenging journey of recovery and reconstruction, the timely assistance provided by ECOWAS serves as a symbol of hope. It sends a message that in times of crisis, the region will come together to support those in need and empower them to rebuild their lives and communities,” Mr. Blamoh said.
He added, “With ECOWAS and NDMA working hand in hand, the future holds the promise of a stronger, more resilient Liberia, better equipped to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.”