The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) with funding from the Governments of Sweden and Ireland and the UN Peacebuilding Fund has turned over 153 pieces of police uniforms and other accessories worth US$40,000 to the Liberia National Police (LNP).

Delivering the items at the LNP headquarters in Monrovia, UNDP Liberia Country Director Pa Lamin Beyai reiterated the agency’s partnership with the Governments of Sweden and Ireland and UN Peacebuilding Fund (PBF), which provides support to the Liberia National Police (LNP) and the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS) through various interventions under the Rule of law Programme.

Dr. Beyai said providing duty uniform is one of several interventions of support to the LNP, stressing that the police uniform symbolizes Trust, honesty, authority, promotes the good image of the police and accords the necessary courtesy and capacity development.

He pledged UNDP’s continued commitment and support to Liberia’s development. “We look forward to further strengthening the cooperation with donors not only to support LNP and LIS, but other national security and other Rule of Law institutions for sustainable peace and development in Liberia” Beyai stressed.

For her part, Irish aid Programme Officer Elena Gromme mentioned that the police represents the image of the Country that upholds the rule of law and protects its citizens.

Ms. Gromme spoke of the longstanding relationship subsisting between Liberia and Ireland, adding that the LNP uniform is a reflection of the behavior of a police officer and a boost to the image of the entity when Liberians feel safe.

Also making remarks, Charles Lawrence of the Embassy of Sweden implored officers to be reminded that being fully attired is a prestige and call to national duty to defend the rights of its people.

“Uniform is more than just clothes. It promotes unity, and boosts transparency and accountability for a professionalized institution that works to protect its people” Lawrence noted.

Receiving the items, Police Inspector General Patrick Sudue applauded the gesture from partners, adding that persistent appeals to the international community to support the LNP with uniforms has yielded some fruitful results.

"We are continuing our appeal to others to follow suit" said Inspector General Sudue.