In a courtesy meeting held at the Rural and Renewable Energy Agency (RREA) office, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Liberia’s renewable energy sector through an enhanced partnership with the agency. 

Mr. Aliou M. Dia, Resident Representative of UNDP Liberia, and Mr. Samuel B. Nagbe, Executive Director of RREA, engaged in a strategic dialogue on scaling up renewable energy initiatives to meet national development goals and expand energy access to underserved communities. Both agreed to align strategies and catalyze transformative energy solutions.

“We are not just talking about lighting homes—we are talking about transforming lives. Energy is the cornerstone of development, peacebuilding, and climate resilience. UNDP is committed to working with RREA and the Government of Liberia to make sustainable energy a reality for all,” said Mr. Dia. 

Mr. Nagbe highlighted RREA’s recent achievements and ongoing projects, including an ambitious 100% solarization of health facilities nationwide. To date, 90 facilities have been completed, with an additional 125 in the pipeline. He said the program is now expanding to include schools, underscoring the importance of energy in education and public health.

Nagbe informed that in Rivergee, Maryland, and Zorzor, solar streetlights enable students to study at night, small businesses to thrive after dark, and communities to feel safe. 

“With limited government funding, the support from partners like UNDP and the World Bank has been crucial,” he noted

Both parties discussed the urgency of developing a comprehensive renewable energy policy and strategic plan that attracts private sector investment through mechanisms like Derisking Renewable Energy Investments (DREI).

“This is the time for a bold, coherent approach to renewable energy. We are ready to work with UNDP and our partners to build a roadmap that meets our immediate needs and sets the stage for long-term resilience and growth,” Mr. Nagbe added.

They agreed on a joint mission with the Ministry of Health to assess solar energy needs at Tellewoyan Memorial Hospital in Lofa County as part of the agreed-upon next steps.  

The RREA will also collaborate with UNDP to organize a national Renewable Energy Forum and establish connections with regional bodies such as Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL).

UNDP pledged to support the development of a renewable energy policy and strategy, and facilitate learning exchanges with countries like Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and the Gambia that have made notable progress in renewable energy adoption.

This collaboration marks a new chapter in Liberia’s journey toward clean, inclusive, and sustainable energy access, promising to leave no one behind.

Source : UNDP

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