The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Resident Representative in Liberia, Dr. Mady Biaye, has underscored the vital role of the media in advancing the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) Programme of Action. He said journalists are key partners in promoting gender equality, reproductive health, and sustainable national development.
Speaking Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at the One UN House in Monrovia at the opening of a one-day orientation workshop for members of the Liberia Media Network for Championing the ICPD Agenda, Dr. Biaye said the presence of media practitioners reflects a shared commitment to advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) for all Liberians.
“It is my honor and pleasure to welcome you to this important workshop. Your presence here signifies the meaningful partnership we share in ensuring a sustainable future through sexual and reproductive health and rights,” he said. According to him, population and development, as well as SRHR, are not abstract concepts but key pillars for achieving social and economic progress.
Highlighting the agency’s three transformative goals, ending preventable maternal deaths, ending the unmet need for family planning, and ending gender-based violence and harmful practices, Dr. Biaye said the media has a powerful platform to amplify advocacy and raise public awareness on these critical issues.
The UNFPA Resident Representative in Liberia described the gathering as a strategic effort to strengthen collaboration with journalists, bloggers, and social media influencers who have demonstrated a passion for reporting on issues related to UNFPA’s work. “We have identified potential champions within Liberia’s media landscape, professionals who are committed to advocacy, investigative reporting, storytelling, and responsible digital engagement on UNFPA’s mandate.
However, he said, all reporters should adhere to the “do no harm” principle in covering vulnerable communities.
Dr. Biaye further emphasized that UNFPA’s work is driven by data and evidence, supporting the government in conducting censuses, surveys, and research that guide policy and investment decisions. “Reliable, disaggregated population data is the foundation for national development planning and governance,” he added.
Calling for a “whole-of-society” approach, Dr. Biaye said UNFPA continues to value partnerships with government, civil society, faith-based leaders, and the media in promoting inclusive and sustainable development. He encouraged participants to leverage the workshop to strengthen collaboration and ensure that media coverage continues to play a transformative role in advancing the ICPD agenda in Liberia.
“Let us work together to build a future where every individual—especially women and girls—can live with dignity, safety, and equal opportunity,” he narrated. During the day-long gathering, there were presentations on UNFPA’s work on reducing maternal mortality, ending all forms of gender-based violence and harmful practices, adolescent and youth participation and leadership, ending unmet need for family planning among others.
