-On Strengthening Partnerships, and Aligning Priorities for Sustainable Impact
The Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) on Wednesday, September 11, 2024, commenced a two-day “Liberia Unified Planning” workshop in Monrovia, under the theme: “Strengthening Partnerships, Aligning Priorities: A Unified Approach for Sustainable Impact.”
The workshop brings together key partners and stakeholders including the Swedish Embassy, National Disaster Management Agency, Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Health, and the International Organization on Migration among others to collaborate on aligning priorities in the humanitarian context while ensuring sustainable solutions that meet the needs of communities in line with global Red Cross and Red Crescent strategies.
During the opening session, LNRCS Secretary-General Gregory Blamoh emphasized the significance of the workshop, stating, “Today marks a pivotal moment as we gather to chart a unified course for 2025 and beyond, aligning our efforts with both the National’s priorities and the broader strategies of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement.”
Mr. Blamoh reiterated that the event is not only about planning but also about strengthening partnerships, harmonizing approaches, and enhancing the effectiveness of the LNRCS’ response to the challenges faced by vulnerable communities.
He added, “Through collaboration, we can overcome humanitarian challenges and build sustainable solutions that truly meet the needs of those who depend on us.” The workshop discusses key priorities including organizational development, local humanitarian priorities and actions, resource mobilization, and ensuring gender, protection, and inclusion.
The Secretary-General also called on participants to prioritize the needs of the Liberian Red Cross humanitarian operations in alignment with Liberia’s current humanitarian context while thanking the IFRC for the support toward holding the Unified Planning Workshop.
Head of the IFRC Western Cluster Dr. Mohammed Awan,commended Liberia as one of the priority countries in the region due to the LNRCS’s excellent humanitarian response, teamwork, and leadership. Dr. Awan highlighted the importance of the IFRC’s Vision 2030 Strategy, emphasizing health, disaster preparedness, climate change, and migration as key areas of focus.
Dr. Awan challenged the LNRCS to continue inspiring volunteers and improving preparedness before disasters strike to mitigate their impact on communities. In his remark, Mr. NanleeJohnson, Program Officer from the Swedish Embassy lauded the timing of the LNRCS’ Unified Planning Workshop, stating that the Embassy is in the process of developing its five-year strategic plan.
He expressed optimism about aligning the Embassy’s priorities with the outcomes of the LNRCS 2025 plan to address pressing needs on the ground. The workshop is expected to conclude with a unified plan that is realistic, achievable, and focused on delivering effective and sustainable humanitarian services to the Liberian people.
