In a momentous occasion, the Liberia Refugee and Repatriation Commission (LRRRC) officially dedicated its new modern headquarters building Monday January 15,2024 valued at $347,000.
The project, made possible through the generous funding provided by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), stands as a testament to international collaboration and Liberia’s commitment to addressing the needs of refugees and returnees.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of His Excellency, President George Weah, who made a brief remark before cutting the ribbon to mark the official opening of the new structure.
The event drew a diverse audience, including government officials, representatives from UNHCR, members of the diplomatic corps, and key stakeholders in the refugee and repatriation sector.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Weah expressed his gratitude to the UNHCR for their unwavering support in making the project a reality. He underscored the significance of the new headquarters in enhancing the capacity of LRRRC to carry out its crucial mandate effectively.
“The completion of this modern headquarters is a testament to the fruitful partnership between Liberia and UNHCR. It is a symbol of our commitment to providing a conducive environment for the Liberia Refugee Repatrition and Resettlement Commission to carry out its vital work in ensuring the well-being and successful reintegration of refugees and returnees,” President Weah remarked.
The President also highlighted the broader implications of the project, emphasizing its role in promoting LRRRC’s work peace, and development in the region.
He commended the dedication and hard work of the LRRRC team headed by Rev. Festus R. B. Logan and assured continued support from the government.
Earlier, LRRRC Executive Director Rev. Festus Logan thanked president George Manneh Weah for his mentorship that led to the successful completion of the project.
Rev. Logan maintained that the dedication of the modern structure is in fulfilment of the President’s commitment for government entities to leave rented properties and be housed in their own structure.
In a statement, the UNHCR Country Representative to Liberia Anthony Abogi reaffirmed its dedication to supporting initiatives that contribute to the well-being and empowerment of displaced populations.
The organization commended the LRRRC for its tireless efforts and emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing the complex challenges faced by refugees and communities affected by displacement.
He added that the organization remains committed to supporting its local partner in Liberia evidenced by supports being given to initiatives carry out by LRRRC.
The newly inaugurated headquarters is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including modern office spaces, conference rooms, and other features.
The building is designed to accommodate the growing needs of the commission as it continues its efforts to address the challenges faced by refugees and returnees Asylum seekers and other people of concern within the boders of Liberia.
As the ceremony concluded, President Weah, joined by UNHCR representatives and LRRRC officials, cut the ribbon, symbolizing the official opening of the headquarters. The event concluded with a sense of optimism for the future of refugee and repatriation efforts in Liberia, as the country reaffirms its commitment to providing support for people of concerns (Pocs)