September 11, 2025
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has approved a new humanitarian initiative for Liberia, titled “Strengthening Resilience and Supporting Disaster-Affected Populations in Liberia.” This marks the second ECOWAS-funded project aimed at addressing local humanitarian needs in disaster-affected communities in the country.
The project, funded by the ECOWAS Humanitarian Department, is valued at over US$725,000 and will be implemented by the Liberia National Red Cross Society (LNRCS) in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA). The project will cover Montserrado, Lofa, Grand Cape Mount, and Bong Counties.
A major component of the project will be the direct cash transfer of US$455,000 to 1,820 family heads via mobile money to improve their economic livelihoods through engagement in small-scale economic activities.
Additionally, the project will construct 19 new handpumps, two solar-powered water towers and repair 36 damaged ones, promote safe waste collection and proper garbage disposal, Train and support 200 local farmers with climate-smart agricultural practices, providing them with assorted seeds and tools.
Speaking at the project steering Committee meeting on Thursday, the ECOWAS Resident Representative Ambassador Josephine Nkrumah said: “Climate change and natural disasters are among the greatest challenges facing our region,” adding “This project is a demonstration of ECOWAS’ commitment to not only respond to immediate humanitarian needs but also to build the resilience of vulnerable communities in Liberia.”
The impacts of climate change in Liberia remain severe. In 2024 alone, over 50,000 people—mostly women, children, and other vulnerable groups—were displaced by flooding that destroyed more than 5,000 homes, disrupted livelihoods, and limited access to essential services. “Our ultimate goal is to help Liberians not just survive disasters, but thrive beyond them,” Ambassador Nkrumah emphasized.
“We are deeply grateful to ECOWAS for their trust and partnership,” said Gregory Blamoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia National Red Cross Society. “Through this project, we aim to empower disaster-affected families, provide sustainable solutions, and strengthen the capacity of communities to adapt to the realities of a changing climate.”
The project steering committee, comprising the ECOWAS Ambassador’s Office, the National Disaster Management Agency, and the Liberia National Red Cross Society, convened on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the ECOWAS Liberia office in Monrovia to finalize preparations for the official launch of the project. The meeting was chaired by Ambassador Nkrumah and attended by Mr. Blamoh, along with representatives from the NDMA.
