By: Edmund C. Gbarwee/Nimba D-9 TV/Public Health Reporter/ceo@onenimbahouse.com/ nimbad9tv2018@gmail.com/ +231778060706
Nimba County, Liberia: – The One Nimba House Media Inc (Nimba D-9 TV) speaking to United Nimba Citizens’ Council (UNICCO) National Project Director George Flomo about his thoughts on the just ended Saclepea Home Coming for Development provided full details about UNICCO activities focusing on the union’s signature project, The Women Empowerment Center that is under construction in Nimba County, Liberia, West Africa. He shines light on four key areas of the project:
“Empowerment of Women and Girls: The primary benefit of the project is the empowerment of women and girls in the Domahpa Community and beyond. By providing them with skills training and education, the project aims to equip women and girls with the knowledge and tools they need to become economically self-sufficient and active participants in their communities.
Poverty Reduction: Through skills training and capacity building, the project seeks to alleviate poverty among women and girls by enabling them to access income-generating opportunities and improve their economic prospects. This, in turn, can have a positive ripple effect on their families and communities”.
Madame Rebecca Kaikpo, UNICCO National Women Empowerment Chairlady furthered stressed on the importance of the facility and have these to say,
“Post-Conflict Recovery: The project addresses the lingering challenges faced by women and girls in post-civil war Liberia. By investing in their empowerment and well-being, the project contributes to the broader process of reconciliation, healing, and rebuilding in Nimba County and beyond.
Social and Economic Development: As women and girls gain skills and become more active participants in the economy, they can contribute to the social and economic development of their communities and the broader region. This can lead to increased productivity, job creation, and overall improvement in living standards.
Regional Impact: Given the strategic location of Ganta City and its status as a fast-growing urban center, the benefits of the project are not limited to Nimba County alone but extend to the broader region and even the entire country of Liberia. By empowering women and girls, the project contributes to the socio-economic development and stability of the region”.
Meanwhile the National Vice President Nensah McCabe told our reporters that the, United Nimba Citizens’ Council (UNICCO) Women Empowerment Project incurs significant costs in terms of construction, operational expenses, and program implementation, its benefits in terms of women and girls’ empowerment, poverty reduction, post-conflict recovery, and regional development far outweigh the initial investment.
It can be recalled that in December 2019, the United Nimba Citizens’ Council (UNICCO) initiated a home coming development program aimed at bolstering development and empowerment in Nimba County, Liberia. Founded in 1979 as a student association for Diaspora Nimba students, UNICCO has steadily expanded its reach, becoming a beacon of hope for both Nimba residents at home and abroad.
Under the leadership of Former President Dahn K. Dennis, UNICCO launched the “UNICCO December to Remember” initiative, kickstarting a Women Empowerment Center construction project with an initial investment of US$250,000. Since then, the organization has continued to elevate its activities, touching every sector including health and education.
The most recent milestone occurred in March 2024 when at most 30 sons and daughters of Nimba County residing in the United States traveled to Liberia to participate in the Saclepea Home Coming for Development initiative. UNICCO National President President Samuel T. Gee and a team of dedicated volunteers, jumpstart the event by visiting hard-to-reach communities in Nimba County; Karblee and Gbi&Doru Administrative Districts including Yarwin Mehnsonnoh Statutory District providing much-needed medical supplies, school materials, and support to various health facilities, schools, and stakeholders.
The impact of UNICCO’s efforts was palpable, with over 20 health facilities and communities receiving support, ensuring that every sector of Nimba County felt the organization’s presence. From providing clothes, shoes, and bicycles to children, to supplying medical supplies to health centers like the Saclepea Comprehensive Health Center, UNICCO’s contribution was substantial and far-reaching.
The initiative concluded with an all Nimba County Electoral District Queen Contest, symbolizing unity and celebration within the community. Miss Lydia Menwon emerged as the winner, further reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and development.
National President Samuel T. Gee, along with other officials, commended the citizens of Nimba County for their unwavering support and urged them to continue serving their communities.
Representative Musa H. Bility echoed these sentiments, praising UNICCO’s efforts and calling for continued cooperation in developing the county.
Moving forward, UNICCO plans to hold future initiatives, with the next “December to Remember” or “Home Coming for Development” scheduled after the May 2024 national Convention in the USA. The initiative has not only brought hope but also catalyzed tangible development, marking UNICCO as a driving force for positive change in Nimba County.
