By Amos Harris
As the world marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN), Liberia, a founding member, joined the global community to commemorate this historic milestone. The nation renewed its commitment to climate action, sustainable development, and community empowerment, underscoring its long-standing partnership with the UN system.
This year’s celebration carries added significance for Liberia, which currently serves as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. This position acknowledges the country’s growing leadership in peacebuilding and multilateral cooperation. Liberia’s partnership with the UN, particularly through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has been instrumental in promoting governance, peace, and inclusive development throughout the nation.
To highlight the UN@80 occasion, UNDP Liberia collaborated with UN Volunteers, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the Kakata City Corporation to organize a Climate Action Day in Kakata, Margibi County.
The impactful event featured the planting of more than 400 coconut trees and a citywide cleanup exercise, which was spearheaded by eco-brigades mobilized under UNDP’s Inclusive Green Growth initiative.
“Tree planting is more than symbolic—it’s a practical step toward climate resilience,” said Louis Kuukpen, UNDP Deputy Resident Representative for Operations. “We are proud to partner with the UN system to empower communities and protect our environment.”
The day’s activities underscored the UN’s continued commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those promoting climate action, sustainable cities, and community engagement.
Volunteerism took center stage during the celebration, with UNDP and the UN Volunteer Office mobilizing young people and community members to actively participate in the exercise.
Kuukpen added, “Volunteerism is a powerful force for change. By engaging youth and local communities, we are building a movement for climate action and civic responsibility.”
Representing the Government of Liberia, the Deputy Minister of Youth and Sports commended all participants for their efforts to protect Liberia’s environment. He emphasized that tree planting remains an essential part of the country’s environmental protection strategy and expressed appreciation to the United Nations for its continued support to Liberia’s national development agenda.
The Deputy Minister further noted that this year’s UN anniversary holds special meaning for Liberia, not only as a founding member but also as a newly elected member of the UN Security Council, reflecting international confidence in the country’s commitment to peace and global cooperation.
The UN@80 Climate Action Day is expected to raise public awareness about the UN’s crucial role in advancing Liberia’s development priorities, particularly in climate resilience, green growth, and sustainable development. The initiative will also enhance collaboration among government institutions, civil society, and local communities in promoting environmental stewardship and collective climate action.
As Liberia celebrates UN@80, the occasion serves as a moment of reflection on the nation’s enduring partnership with the United Nations and its shared vision for a sustainable future. Through activities such as tree planting, volunteer mobilization, and environmental cleanup campaigns, UNDP and its partners are strengthening community resilience and fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.
The UN@80 commemoration not only honors the United Nations’ legacy but also reaffirms Liberia’s commitment to a greener, more inclusive, and sustainable future for all.
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