UN appeals for $117 million for Liberia

(New York: 13 February 2007): Through the recently launched 2007 Consolidated Appeal for Liberia, United Nations agencies and their partners are seeking $117 million for humanitarian aid this year. Following the country's emergence from 14 years of civil strife, the humanitarian community is working to support the Government as it works for recovery and development.

Though enshrined as basic rights for all, health care, clean drinking water, sanitation, shelter and education remain out of reach for the majority of Liberians. Additionally, protection will remain a serious humanitarian concern until the institutions responsible for rule of law become fully functional.

The Government is leading efforts to improve the provision of these services, but continues to require the support of the humanitarian community, particularly as the current level of basic social services provision has been achieved largely through the support of humanitarian actors. The robust engagement of Liberia's community of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) has helped to ensure the breadth of geographical coverage of essential service and protection in the country. For example, more than 70 per cent of health facilities rely on NGO support to function.

In particular, humanitarian support must continue in areas of high return for refugees and internally displaced persons, such as Bomi, Lofa and Nimba counties in the country north and west. Other areas where significant needs remain include the south-eastern counties of Grand Kru, River Cess, River Gee and Sinoe.

As in 2006, the United Nations agencies and partners have identified three strategic priorities for humanitarian assistance in 2007: provision of basic social services to vulnerable populations; revitalization of returnee communities for security and productive livelihoods; and strengthening of civil society and local authorities.

The humanitarian community has expressed its appreciation to the donor community, which channelled more than $70 million in humanitarian assistance through the 2006 Consolidated Appeal.