The United Nations office in Liberia has discussed the country’s pressing population issues in an engagement with the office of the Vice President Monday, July 8, 2024, marking observance of World Population Day.
The discussion focused on raising awareness about demographic trends, family planning, reproductive health, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The UN Resident Coordinator to Liberia revealed a startling statistic that an estimated three women die every day from preventable birth-related complications in the country.
Madam Christine N. Umutoni emphasized, “The SDGs aim to reduce global maternal mortality to 70 deaths per 100,000 live births.”
She however emphasized that in Liberia, the rate stands at 742 deaths per 100,000 live births and at this pace, Liberia and many similar nations are not on track to meet the SDG targets.
The UNFPA in Liberia underscored the need for accelerated actions to meet the SDG targets and achieve zero preventable maternal deaths to address this as strategic partnerships have been identified as a crucial factor in speeding up progress.
“This dialogue with the Vice President’s Office is crucial for securing the legal, resource, and policy commitments necessary for everyone to realize their sexual reproductive health and rights without violence, discrimination, and barriers to affordable services,” stated Madam Umutoni.
Vice President Jeremiah Koung commended UNFPA and other development partners for their ongoing support but described the current maternal mortality rate as alarming and stressed the urgent need for action to address the country’s population challenges.
Addressing World Population Day, VP Koung highlighted the importance of training and awareness to combat these challenges. He also noted that accessible and reliable data is essential for national development, aligning with the ARREST agenda of the UP-led government.
World Population Day, celebrated on July 11 each year, promotes access to reproductive health services, family planning information, and contraceptives, empowering individuals and families to make informed reproductive choices.
