A well organized and overwhelmingly attended ceremony that was characterized by euphoria was hosted over the weekend in Monrovia.
The program, which marked the end of UNMIL 22 years in the country, was celebrated with recalling of memories accredited to the peacekeepers.
Former staffers of the UNMIL reflected on the sacrifices peacekeepers made during their stay in the country.
Some of the former staff members, recalled “countless individuals, who contributed to the nation’s peace and stability.”
In a heartfelt ceremony that marked UNMIL 22 years of peacekeeping, which took place at Star Base on the Bushord Island over the weekend, was graced by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, as well those who interacted with peacekeepers directly or in another form.
“The event was not only a celebration of UNMIL’s enduring legacy, but a recognition of UN eight decades of commitments to global peace, security and shared prosperity,” a former senior staff told reporters at the celebrations that climaxed the gathering.
Another one underscored the importance of the occasion, as he urged those in attendance to reflect on Liberia’s tumultuous past, and the arduous journey toward nation-building that has unfolded since the establishment of UNMIL in 2003.
Many recalled how in September 2003, Liberia was on the brink of collapse, thankfully, the war ended.
“Years of civil conflict devastated our nation, leaving deep scars in our social fabric. It then displaced thousands of our citizens,” a female attendant recounted the pivotal role UNMIL played that led to disarming combatants; rebuilding national security institutions, and laying the groundwork for the rule of law.
Her colleague, only named as Cece, highlighted how the mission provided a platform for Liberians to choose dialogue over violence, and ballots over bullets, ultimately fostering an environment conducive to reconciliation and democratic governance.
As the nation reflects on its history, the former staffers have called on Liberians to remain committed to sustaining peace and stability.
Since then, the country has conducted four successive democratic elections, and experienced two peaceful transfers of power, signaling our progress as a nation.
Abenego C. Kofie, interim president of the former UNMIL staff, cautioned the government to intensify its efforts in tackling the pervasive issue of drug trafficking.
Kofie said simply arresting users, and cartels are insufficient; rather, a more comprehensive approach is needed to dismantle these networks, and curb the drug crisis.
As Liberia celebrates the legacy of UNMIL, the call for unity and collective action resonates strongly.