CBRN, Lifespan observe “Mandela Day”

In an effort to promote hygienic living environment in the society, the Chemical, Biological and Radiological Nuclear (CBRN) initiative in partnership with Lifespan Liberia, a non-governmental organization has observed “Mandela Day” here characterized by cleanup campaign in and around ELWA Junction community and subsequently an indoor program held at the Paynesville City Hall.

Addressing participants at the start of the indoor program on Tuesday, 18 July National Coordinator and Focal Point of CBRN Platform in Liberia, Professor Martin S. Scott, says the international day of Philanthropy is observed in honor of the late former South African President, Nelson Mandela, who spent all his life fighting for social justice, equality and democracy in Africa.

The program brought together various security intuitions, including the Armed Forces of Liberia, Liberia National Police, and National Fire Service, among others.CBRN Focal Point Scott explains that every year July 18, people around the world are encouraged to spend at least 67 minutes, doing something positive for their respective communities, and countries at large to honor the late President Mendela for his tireless contribution to ensure freedom and democracy in Africa.

Giving an overview of the CBRN, he says the Nelson Mandela Day aims to inspire a ripple of good deeds by encouraging individuals, communities, governments, and non-profit organizations to take small steps toward the larger leap of positive transformation.Prof. Scott narrates that the CBRN Liberia was established in 2013 through a Ministerial order from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in consultation with stakeholders from Line Ministries and Agencies of government, saying it subsequently became the official representation of government to the European Union Center for Excellence of African Atlantic façade region.

According to him, the main objective of the day is to identify and mitigate CBRN risk nationwide through design and implementation of effective programs of preparedness for awareness of detection of, and prevention of high risk CBRN materials as well as facilitate and respond to recovery from CBRN accidents.Speaking also, the Director General of the Liberia Foreign Service Institute, Dr. Augustine Konneh, says that the observance of the Mandela Day calls for taking actions, by making a difference in various communities here in Liberia.

“As I sit here, I see the young people and I want to say that you are the future leaders; you need to commit yourself to community service, and leadership, including educational campaign, work and awareness, among others”, he stresses. Dr. Konneh continues that young people have the ability and responsibility to change the world that will best suit them, saying the Mandela Day is an opportunity for young people to take actions and make positive changes in their various communities.

“Duty is a call to action with the idea that most of you sitting here do not have to change the environment by making meaningful contribution to the needs and aspirations of the people; I want to encourage you to take 67 minutes of your time to get involved in community service, by doing that, you will make a positive change”, he concludes.