Bopolu City Mayor Siah Kieh Victor has urged members of the SAO BOSO Eco-Brigade in Bopolu city and community volunteers to stay dedicated and disciplined as they begin a new phase of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) initiative in the county.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Victor emphasized that this program is about more than just cleaning the city—it is about building a shared vision for Liberia. “To make our nation the country we want, we must act together. Some of you may be older than me, some younger, but when it comes to serving our community, we are all equal,” he said.
He reminded volunteers that by signing up, they committed to serving without monthly pay, and this promise must be kept with honesty and hard work. “Since you agreed to work as volunteers by filling out the UNDP form, you should respect that. If you ever feel you can’t continue, please inform UNDP and the partners instead of just leaving,” he warned.
He also stressed the importance of accountability. “Those who don’t show up on time without a good reason will be reported. We must take this responsibility seriously because the program’s success depends on discipline and dedication.”
The Mayor praised UNDP and its partners for creating opportunities that empower youth and improve Bopolu’ s environment. “We thank our partners for this opportunity. On behalf of the Mayor’s Office, we welcome all participants and are ready to work closely with you,” he said.
He encouraged punctuality, teamwork, and courage, asking volunteers to take pride in the program and work hard to transform the city. “We won’t fear the city’s challenges; we’ll face them head-on. Our dedication will make Bopolu not only friendly but clean and livable for everyone.”
He ended with a message of unity: “On behalf of the City Mayor’s Office and all partners, welcome to this special program. Together, we can make our county and city stronger, cleaner, and more beautiful.”
Meanwhile, Perry D. Young, the County Municipal Task Collector representing the Liberia Revenue Authority in Gbarpolu County, thanked UNDP for its ongoing support, calling it an important effort that directly benefits the people.
Mr. Young said UNDP’s programs, in partnership with the Liberian Government, are essential for Bopolu and fit well with the government’s wider development goals. “This program is very important for the people of Gbarpolu County, and I believe UNDP’s work will continue to benefit them,” he said.
He reminded members of the SAO BOSO Eco-Brigade that their cleaning and sanitation efforts have national significance. Referring to President Joseph N. Boakai’s early Clean City Campaign, Young said, “When the president took office, he declared a clean city and joined in cleaning activities himself. This shows that your work is important to the government and people of Liberia.”
Mr. Young encouraged youth and volunteers to approach their tasks with passion and responsibility, stressing their work is about more than immediate pay. “Don’t focus on how much money you earn. Treat the city as your own, take charge, and work without expecting much. The rewards will come as businesses, hotels, and investors are attracted to a clean and orderly city.”
He also assured that government bodies and partners are ready to support their health and well-being. “If we need to get involved to keep the city clean, we are open to working together. This is a big step towards cleaning not just this county but the whole country.”
Mr. Young thanked UNDP again and promised his support for the initiative, calling it a foundation for progress and prosperity in Gbarpolu County.
Short Background
The UNDP Eco-Brigade program encourages young people to work with their communities and local leaders to keep their cities clean, green, and safe. The program is for the people of Gbarpolu County, aiming to inspire, support, and build the skills of young volunteers.
Since starting in 2019, the Eco-Brigade has grown to several counties, including Grand Gedeh, Lofa, Grand Bassa, Montserrado, Margibi, Grand Cape Mount, Bomi, Sinoe, and Bong. The current launch marks the third group of young volunteers, who recently completed training in environmental management, tree planting, waste disposal, and business skills.
It is expected that over the next 20 days, members of the SAO BOSO Eco-Brigade in Bopolu city will lead clean-up campaigns and community awareness efforts before receiving a $400 start-up grant. Past brigades have success stories of youth who used their stipends to invest in education, transport, and small businesses.
Implemented by the Government of Liberia with support from UNDP and partners, the Eco-Brigade aligns with President Joseph Boakai’s ARREST Agenda, prioritizing youth empowerment, economic growth, and environmental sustainability.
