In Nairobi, at the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) headquarters, Executive Director Inger Andersen emphasized the city’s unique status as the only UN headquarters in the Global South and highlighted UNEP’s ongoing efforts regarding climate change, biodiversity, and pollution. Youth participation has been acknowledged as a catalyst for environmental action and future leadership.
In Naqoura, Lebanon, the UN peacekeeping mission (UNIFIL) commemorated the 25th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace, and security. Force Commander, General Diodato Abagnara, stated that peace is a collective effort, emphasizing inclusion in peacebuilding.
In Afghanistan, the United Nations Assistance Mission (MANUA) reflected on its long-standing presence advocating for peace, human rights, and development. Deputy Special Representative Georgette Gagnon reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to Afghans, especially women and girls, amid ongoing humanitarian issues.
Across the Americas, UN offices recognized advancements in Sustainable Development Goals, climate action, and youth involvement, reaffirming the UN’s role in fostering equality, resilience, and cooperation in the region. Eighty years on, the UN continues to unite people and nations to prevent war and work towards a just and sustainable future.
Nearly a million people have been affected by severe floods in South Sudan, according to the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). Flooding has disrupted over 140 health facilities, impacting essential services, while South Sudan faces outbreaks of cholera and malaria. Last week, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported over 104,000 malaria cases, a 15% increase from the previous week, largely due to the floods. The floods are exacerbated by ongoing conflict and severe food insecurity.
Despite challenges accessing parts of the country, the UN and partners provide crucial aid to flood-affected communities. The World Food Program (PAM) offers food and nutritional support. WHO and partners have delivered over 50 tonnes of medical supplies in Jonglei, Unity, and Upper Nile states, with additional help on the way, including tents and cholera kits.
The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continues discovering unauthorized weapons and ammunition in southern Lebanon, reported UN deputy spokesperson Farhan Haq. UNIFIL found mortar shells and small explosive devices recently. Since October 15, UNIFIL has coordinated with the Lebanese Armed Forces and Israeli Defense Forces to repair “Blue Line” markers damaged in past conflicts with Hezbollah.
Mr. Haq noted that UNIFIL helped facilitate over 40 olive harvests near the Blue Line this month. Alongside protecting agriculture during ceasefire violations, peacekeepers patrol with Lebanese forces to ensure farmers’ safety. Earlier this month, a public school reopened in Naqoura, the site of the UNIFIL headquarters, symbolizing recovery and hope, according to the mission.
Leave a Reply