I.
Purpose of the Mission: The purpose of the Mission was to monitor
the level of implementation of the concluding observations and
recommendations issued by the African Committee of Experts on the
Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC/the Committee) to the
Government of Liberia in 2013 following the consideration of the latter’s
initial report on the implementation of the African Children’s Charter.
II.
Objectives of the ACERWC in this Mission: The Mission aimed at
undertaking a constructive dialogue with representatives of the
Government of Liberia to learn about the progress achieved,
challenges faced, and opportunities in the implementation of the
concluding observations and recommendations. The ACERWC also
intended to bring stakeholders together to boost collaboration between
the Government, UN agencies, CSOs, and other stakeholders.
Moreover, the Committee sought to enhance and accelerate the
implementation of its recommendations.
III.
Expected outcomes: The Mission provides for an opportunity to the
Government of Liberia to appreciate its progress in implementing the
recommendations and thereby learn best practices that can be used by
the ACERWC in its further engagement with other State Parties.
Moreover, the Mission creates an opportunity for the Government to
identify and address its challenges in implementing the
recommendations of the Committee. Finally, the Mission also
enhances the continued commitment from the Government of Liberia to
implement the recommendations and the Charter as well as to submit
its periodic report in a near future.
IV.
Delegation: The Delegation of the ACERWC was composed of Hon.
Marie-Christine Bocoum, First Vice-Chairperson of the ACERWC and
Special Rapporteur on Child Marriage and Harmful Practices; Hon Aver
Gavar, Member of the ACERWC and Special Rapporteur on Violence
against Children; Ms. Catherine Maina, Senior Social worker, Mr.
Ayalew Getachew Assefa, Senior Child Protection Officer; Ms.
Samrawit Getaneh Damtew, Legal Researcher; and Mr. Solomon
Samson, Communication Assistant.
V.
Methodology: The Mission engaged in constructive discussions and
bilateral meetings with representatives the Government, UN Agencies
and CSOs; workshops as well as direct observations to identify the
achievements and challenges in relation to implementation of the
concluding observations and recommendations.