By: Fiona Benson
A delegation led by UNICEF Representative in Liberia, Andy Brooks, accompanied by emerging politicians from Norway and a representative from GAVI, on Wednesday paid a visit to the House of Representatives to engage with lawmakers particularly members of the House Committee on Education and Health on issues surrounding immunization and youth involvement in national decision-making.
During the interactive session, the young Norwegian delegates inquired about the role of Liberian youth in policymaking and governance, while the GAVI representative encouraged lawmakers to view immunization not as an expenditure but as a long-term investment in the nation’s human capital and public health.
In her welcome remarks, Rep. Julie F. Wiah, Chairperson on Health, expressed appreciation to UNICEF, GAVI, and the visiting delegation for their continuous support to Liberia’s health sector. She underscored the importance of immunization in safeguarding the nation’s population and pledged the House’s cooperation in strengthening health-related programs and policies.
Rep. Samson Quejue Wiah, a member of the Health Committee with a professional background in healthcare, also thanked UNICEF and GAVI for their sustained partnership. He highlighted Liberia’s success in eradicating polio through international collaboration and noted ongoing efforts to expand access to vaccines against malaria, typhoid, and other preventable diseases.
Rep Wiah further educated the Norwegian youthful delegates on the functions of Liberia’s governance system and how it has impacted their lives of other foreign nationals in building their country democracy.
He also welcomed their visit and encouraged them to visit again if necessary citing the Liberia is country hospitality and rich culture.
Following the meeting, the delegation toured the Capitol Building, including the original and current chambers of the House, as well as the Rotunda and other historical areas.
UNICEF Representative Brooks extended gratitude to the lawmakers for their warm hospitality and reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s health and youth empowerment initiatives.