By Bill W. Cooper
In a show of solidarity and support, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has turned over a generous sum of US$440,465 to alleviate the suffering of thousands of flood victims across Liberia.
The donation, made to the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) and its implementing partner, Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS), is intended to provide immediate relief and aid to the affected population of 9,680 inhabitants, representing 1,841 homes across Liberia.
It can be recalled that devastating floods, triggered by heavy rainfall and poor drainage systems, recently ravaged several homes in some counties across Liberia, displacing and adversely affecting the lives of around 9,680 individuals.
This natural disaster left countless families homeless, with their livelihoods decimated and their basic needs compromised.
But recognizing the urgent need for assistance, ECOWAS, an esteemed organization committed to promoting economic integration and regional cooperation among its member states, swiftly activated its disaster response mechanism.
Through its intervention, ECOWAS special Representative to Liberia, Josephine Nkrumah, said the Commission’s decision is aimed to help alleviate the suffering faced by these flood victims and support the efforts of the Liberian government to rebuild affected communities.
Speaking Wednesday, September 27, 2023, during the exchanging of the document at her ECOWAS office in Monrovia, Madam Nkrumah said the funds will be used to facilitate the immediate delivery of shelter materials, clean drinking water, food supplies, essential medical aid, and sanitation facilities to the affected areas, including the rebuilding of their homes.
According to her, the comprehensive approach is also designed to address both short-term needs and long-term rehabilitation efforts, laying the foundation for the affected communities to regain stability and rebuild their lives.
She added that the Commission remains committed to working with the Liberian Government for the betterment of the country, urging the both the NDMA and LNRCS to ensure that the fund is used for its intended purpose.
The NDMA Executive Director, Henry O. Williams, thanked the ECOWAS for the funds, which he described as timely, promising that his team will work closely with the LNRCS in ensuring that the targeted victims benefit.
This, Williams stated, that the ECOWAS donation not only demonstrates the organization’s sincere commitment to standing in solidarity with its member states, but also highlights the regional unity and collaboration that underpins its very foundation.
For his part, the Secretary General of the LNRCS, Gregory T. Blamoh, assured both the ECOWAS and NDMA of his institution’s fullest commitment to ensuring transparency and accountability during the distribution process.
As the affected communities in Liberia embark on the long and arduous journey of recovery and reconstruction, the timely assistance provided by ECOWAS serves as a symbol of hope, sending 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.
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.
