By Precious D. Freeman
The Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), Ansu Dulleh joined an array of public officials and international development partners to honor the International Rescue Committee (IRC) as it officially closes its operations in Liberia after nearly 30 years of humanitarian and development work.
The IRC, which began its operations in Liberia in 1996 during the country’s post-war recovery period, has played a crucial role in providing health, education, and social welfare services to refugees, displaced persons, and vulnerable communities.
Over the years, the IRC transitioned from emergency response to post-conflict development, aligning its efforts with the Government of Liberia’s national priorities.
During its nearly three decades of service, the IRC reached an estimated 3.5 million people across 12 of Liberia’s 15 counties and invested approximately US$219 million in humanitarian and development programs.
The organization employed over 1,700 staff members who implemented life-saving health initiatives, supported educational opportunities for children and youth, and provided essential services to promote economic empowerment.
The IRC’s work in Liberia was made possible through partnerships with major international donors, including USAID, Irish Aid, SIDA, OFDA/PAE, Google, the European Union (EU), ECHO, the World Bank, EKFS, and GIZ.
The organization also collaborated with 11 local civil society organizations to deliver impactful programs and build local capacity.
Speaking at the closure ceremony, NDMA Executive Director Ansu Dulleh expressed gratitude for the IRC’s long-standing commitment to Liberia’s recovery and development.
“Your work and services to Liberia will always be remembered, even to the generation unborn,” he said.
The IRC’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in Liberia’s recovery journey.
The organization’s legacy includes strengthening Liberia’s health and education systems, supporting women and children’s protection, and empowering communities with economic opportunities.
Meanwhile, NDMA’s Executive Director recently led a team of technicians and responders from the NDMA, Liberia National Fire Service, and waste management experts from the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC) to support the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) in extinguishing a dangerous fire at the Paynesville landfill.
The swift response prevented potential harm to residents and underscored the importance of coordinated disaster management efforts.
Liberia now looks to the future, building on the foundation laid by the IRC and continuing to strengthen national systems for resilience and development.
