The Commissioner, Chairman, and CEO, Amb. Bobby Whitfield, representing the Liberia National Water Sanitation and Hygiene Commission (WASH), attended the 2019 World Water Week in Stockholm, Sweden. This annual event, organized by the Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI) serves as a crucial platform for addressing global water issues. Experts, practitioners, decision-makers, innovators, and young professionals from various sectors and countries gather in Stockholm to network, exchange ideas, foster new thinking, and develop solutions to pressing water-related challenges. The theme for this year's event, held from August 25 to 30, was "Water for society – Including all".
With a commitment to enhancing Liberia's water sector and ensuring access to safe drinking water for all citizens, the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Dr. George Manneh Weah, sent Commissioner Bobby Whitfield as its representative to participate in the World Water Week 2019 events. While in Stockholm, Commissioner Whitfield took the opportunity to meet with leaders and members of the Liberian Swedish Association (LSA) community.
During this interaction, LSA President, Mr. David Ford, welcomed Commissioner Whitfield and conveyed the community's appreciation for his engagement. Mr. Ford emphasized the need for the Government of Liberia to establish a representative institution in Stockholm to cater to the needs of Liberians in Scandinavia. He highlighted the challenges faced by diaspora Liberians in accessing government services and underscored the potential benefits of such an institution in facilitating investments in Liberia from Scandinavia.
In response, Commissioner Whitfield conveyed greetings from the Government of Liberia and expressed his delight at the unity demonstrated by Liberians in Sweden under the LSA. Drawing from his experience as a former community leader for the Liberian Association in Australia, he encouraged Liberians to uphold law and order and to contribute their skills and resources towards Liberia's development. Commissioner Whitfield assured the community that he would relay their message to President Weah, highlighting the importance of addressing the concerns raised.
Regarding his participation in the World Water Week events, Commissioner Whitfield noted the enriching experience gained and the valuable networking opportunities it provided. He emphasized the importance of equity, accountability, and innovation in water governance and management in Liberia, outlining strategies to advance the WASH agenda in the country. Additionally, Commissioner Whitfield highlighted President Weah's commitment to providing safe drinking water to all Liberians, with WASH being a key component of the national development plan.
Commissioner Whitfield expressed gratitude to WaterAid Liberia for their support and sponsorship of Liberia's delegation to the World Water Week event. He also thanked Indian TV Channel 18 for the interview opportunity, which helped raise awareness about Liberia's participation in this global event.
During his time in Europe, Commissioner Whitfield disclosed that he will accept an invitation from Young Water Solution to speak at their annual flagship event in Brussels, Belgium. Additionally, he plans to visit the local Liberian community and participate in various water-related events and activities during his stay.
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