UN Envoy Ellen Margrethe Løj has praised civil society organizations in Liberia as the bridge builders between the government and the people.

"You have the closest touch and feel for local communities; and a greater effect in addressing challenges, such as sexual and gender-based violence in those communities," said Ms. Løj, speaking to representatives of Civil Society Organizations - CSOs - during a one-day visit to Bopolu, Gbarpolu County on 17 November.

During her interaction with county authorities, Envoy Løj underscored the need to actively engage the Ministry of Lands, Mines and Energy in the effort to prevent illegal mining in the County. She also reiterated the support of UNMIL and other partners in assisting the Liberian National Police and Immigration Officers, and said that efforts would be made to control and prevent the illegal influx of foreigners and illegal mining activities.

Ms. Løj was informed that three districts in the county are land-locked and inaccessible due to poor roads and bridges. She offered the support of UNMIL military engineers, who, she said, would "do their best to rehabilitate primary and secondary roads, which are also needed to resupply our troops and personnel."

During her stay in Bopolu, Envoy Løj participated at a groundbreaking ceremony for the Bopolu Women and Youth Centre. The initiative to set up the development centre is the joint effort of the Ministries of Agriculture, and Youth and Sports, with support from Nigerian peacekeepers in Gbarpolu County. She also paid a visit to an early childhood care center, where young children are taken care of by volunteers while their parents are busy with other activities.

The UN Envoy was accompanied by the acting Force Commander, Major-General Carl Modey; Chief Civilian Personnel Officer, Jeanie Fraser, Head of UNMIL Field Office Gbarpolu County, Muchiri Murenga, and other UNMIL senior officials and local dignitaries.