2008

ESI Sustainable Village Model

Duayee, Nimba County, Liberia

The

Empowerment Society International 4460 S Cobblestone St Gilbert, AZ 85297 (602) 538-2638 info@empowermentsociety.com

Prepared by Peter Gbelia, President, Empowerment Society International Dee Dee Vicino, Board of Advisors, Empowerment Society International Published by the Empowerment Society International September 15, 2008

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ..................................................................................................................................... I EMPOWERMENT SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL ................................................................................................... III MISSION ............................................................................................................................................................... III PROJECT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES .............................................................................................................................. III THE SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA SUSTAINABILITY COALITION (SASC) ...................................................................................... IV PARTNER PROFILES .................................................................................................................................................. V TABLE OF ABBREVIATIONS ............................................................................................................................VII PART 1 - INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND ................................................................................................. 1 PROBLEM STATEMENT: .............................................................................................................................................1 1.1 INTRODUCTION..................................................................................................................................................1 1.2 HISTORY ..........................................................................................................................................................1 1.3 GEOGRAPHY .....................................................................................................................................................3 1.4 DEMOGRAPHY...................................................................................................................................................3 1.4.1 Population .............................................................................................................................................3 1.4.2 Land Ownership .....................................................................................................................................4 1.4.3 Ethnic Composition ................................................................................................................................ 4 1.4.4 Religion ..................................................................................................................................................4 1.5 INSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE..................................................................................................................................5 1.6 METHODOLOGY.................................................................................................................................................7 PART 2 - PRIORITIES, ISSUES, AND ACTIONS .................................................................................................... 9 2.1 DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES.................................................................................................................................10 2.1.1 District Priorities ..................................................................................................................................10 2.1.2 County Priorities ..................................................................................................................................10 2.1.3 Gbehyi Chiefdom Priorities ..................................................................................................................10 2.2 INFRASTRUCTURE AND BASIC SERVICES PILLAR.......................................................................................................10 2.2.1 Health ..................................................................................................................................................10 2.2.2 Air Quality ............................................................................................................................................12 2.2.3 Water and Sanitation ..........................................................................................................................12 2.2.4 Education .............................................................................................................................................13 2.2.5 Food Security .......................................................................................................................................14 2.2.6 Electricity .............................................................................................................................................15 2.2.7 Housing ................................................................................................................................................15 2.3 ECONOMIC REVITALIZATION PILLAR .....................................................................................................................16
i

2.3.1 Natural Resources ............................................................................................................................... 16 2.3.2 Agriculture .......................................................................................................................................... 17 2.3.3 The Sustainable Village Service Center ............................................................................................... 17 2.4 CROSS-CUTTING ISSUES ................................................................................................................................... 19 2.4.1 Gender Equity ..................................................................................................................................... 19 2.4.2 HIV and AIDS ....................................................................................................................................... 20 2.4.3 Children and Youth ............................................................................................................................. 20 PART 3 - ESI AND THE UNITED NATIONS MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS ............................................. 22 PART 4 ESI AND THE WORLD BANKS APPROACH TO LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ........................... 24 PART 5 - MARKET STRATEGY ......................................................................................................................... 25 5.1 MARKET ANALYSIS .......................................................................................................................................... 25 5.2 MARKET STRUCTURE ....................................................................................................................................... 25 5.3 SALES STRATEGY ............................................................................................................................................. 26 5.4 PROJECT TIME LIME ........................................................................................................................................ 26 5.4 BARRIERS TO ENTRY ........................................................................................................................................ 28 PART 6 - BUDGET/FINANCE ........................................................................................................................... 29 6.1 BUDGET/FUNDING .......................................................................................................................................... 29 6.2 RETURN ON INVESTMENT POTENTIAL .................................................................................................................. 31 6.2.1 FINANCIAL IMPACT ............................................................................................................................. 31 6.2.2 RETURN ON INVESTMENT................................................................................................................... 31 6.2.3 EXIT STRATEGY .................................................................................................................................... 31 PART 7 - ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW ............................................................................................................ 32 7.1 MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................................... 32 7.2 THE TEAM ..................................................................................................................................................... 32 7.4 PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS ................................................................................................................................ 35 7.5 COLLABORATING ORGANIZATIONS, INSTITUTIONS, AND INDIVIDUALS ........................................................................ 36 PART 8 - CONCLUDING REMARKS ................................................................................................................. 37 ANNEXES ...................................................................................................................................................... 39 APPENDIX I: MAPS ............................................................................................................................................... 39 APPENDIX II: POTENTIAL MICRO-BUSINESSES .......................................................................................................... 40 APPENDIX III: BALANCE SHEET................................................................................................................................ 42

ii

APPENDIX IV: INCOME STATEMENT .......................................................................................................................43 APPENDIX V: STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS .............................................................................................................44 APPENDIX VI: LIBERIA AND THE UNITED NATIONS MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS...................................................45 APPENDIX VII SUSTAINABLE VILLAGE OBJECTIVES AND GOALS ..................................................................................48 APPENDIX XIII GOVERNMENT AND CHIEFDOM ORGANIZATION CHART .......................................................................49 APPENDIX VIX COUNTY ORGANIZATION CHART ..................................................................................................... 50 APEENDIX X - SWOT ANALYSIS .............................................................................................................................51 END NOTES ................................................................................................................................................... 52

iii

Executive Summary
The Empowerment Society International (ESI) seeks to empower individuals by promoting sustainable development in their communities. Our current project area is Liberia, a small country located on the west coast of sub-Saharan Africa. ESI has created a coalition of nonprofit and non-government organizations (NGOs), universities, corporations, and citizens to implement its Sustainable Village Model (SVM) in the Gbehyi Chiefdom in Nimba County, Liberia. According to the 2008 National Population and Housing Census, Nimba County has a total population of 468,088. The Gbheyi Chiefdom, part of the Saclepea District, has a population of approximately 4,300. The Sustainable Village Model
The inhabitants of the Gbehyi Chiefdom suffer from a preponderance of malaria, typhoid fever, malnutrition and starvation, diarrhea, worms, urinary tract infections, acute respiratory infections, anemia, eye infections, meningitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease.

(SVM)

was forth

developed by

expressly to Goals Poverty The

address the United Nations (MDGs) and the goals set Reduction of Local Strategy Economic

Millennium

Development Liberias

(PRS) through the promotion Development (LED). SVM began with meetings and elders of the Gbehyi with representatives of the and ESI, identified several for the region. ESI and consulted with County mayors, and the Nimba County Caucus in

development of the of the village chiefs Chiefdom who, along Tufeia Tufeia order Foundation priorities Representatives to consolidate development

the District Superintendent, and

harmonize Gbehyi Chiefdom priorities,

which include renewable energy, clean water, clean air, education, and food security. The Village Council asked ESI to develop a system to address its priority needs. In response to the Councils request, ESI developed a Sustainable Village (SVM) Model in which appropriate green technology and local resources are used to improve livelihoods by meeting basic needs and providing the opportunity for micro-business growth and development. The model contains two pillars: (1) The provision of basic services (health, education, electricity, clean water, food security, and basic housing) and (2) economic revitalization (which includes the construction of a Sustainable Village Service Center to oversee the implementation of new technologies and provide opportunities for micro-business). ESIs SVM also addresses HIV/AIDS and malaria as well as issues concerning children and youth and gender-based violence.

ESIs Sustainable Village Model will facilitate movement toward meeting the all eight of the MDGs as well as those set forth by the PRS. Successful implementation of the model will Decrease extreme poverty and hunger in rural regions through the implementation of local economic development, improvements in crop management techniques, and increased food security; Improve the quality of education via internet capability and investment in human capacity; Promote gender equality and empower women by providing opportunities for participation in micro-business and the provision of gender-based violence programs; Reduce child mortality and improve maternal health through the provision of community health aids; Combat malaria and other diseases through the provision of clean water, clean air, the construction of safe, sustainable homes and health and sex education programs; Ensure environmental sustainability by working in harmony with the natural environment; and Develop global partnerships for development.

In an effort to meet its goals and objectives, ESI has partnered with like-minded business, Non-Government Organizations, academic institutions, faculty members, experts in multidisciplinary fields, sustainability organizations. These partnerships are critical to the development and implementation of the Sustainable Village Model. This coalition is charged with the task of creating a bioregional zone within Liberia that will foster sustainable development in environmental management, business, community, and health. Moreover, We ESI has fostered collaboration for its development projects within sub-Saharan Africa. sustainable development projects in Liberia.

work directly with the Government of Liberia (GOL) have secured their approval to carry out

ii

EMPOWERMENT SOCIETY INTERNATIONAL

Mission
ESI was founded to empower the children of sub-Saharan Africa affected by war and conflict and to treat, prevent, and manage HIV/Aids and other diseases, to combat illiteracy, and defeat poverty. The Empowerment Society International (ESI) seeks to empower individuals by ESIs vision is to become the promoting sustainable development in their communities.

premiere consultant in sub-Saharan Africa on matters relating to sustainable development and renewable energy while working together with public, private, and corporate sectors to build a sustainable society. ESI is Building a sustainable world, one individual at a time

Project Goals and Objectives

Our current project area is Liberia, a small country located on the west coast of sub-Saharan Africa. ESI has created a coalition of nonprofit and no government organizations (NGOs), universities, corporations, and citizens to implement its Sustainable Village Model (SVM) in the Gbehyi Chiefdom in Nimba County, Liberia. The goal of the SVM is to help Liberia achieve the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and to address the goals set forth by Liberias Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS) through the promotion of Local Economic Development (LED). More specifically, ESI aims to create a sustainable village that defeats poverty through local economic development and managed "slow growth" in the areas of health, education, food security, alternative energy, and the conservation of local biodiversity. Our objective is to create a community in which increased community revenues are reinvested in the areas outlined above. In this vein, the region will not only meet the goals set forth by Liberias PRS, but will achieve local MDGs as well, including investments in human capital, health, education, infrastructure. eventual defeat of the poverty trap. This will ultimately lead to sustainable growth and the
Figure 1: ESI President Peter Gbelia with President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf. January 2008.

iii

The Sub-Saharan Africa Sustainability Coalition (SASC)

In an effort to accomplish its mission, ESI has partnered with Arizona State Universitys (ASU) Global Institute of Sustainability (GIOS) and the School of Sustainability (SOS), as well as the University of Liberias Department of Environmental Studies, in order to spread the philosophy of sustainability globally, and more specifically, to sub-Saharan Africa. In order to help SJedi has facilitate this global reach, ASUs student organization, the Sustainability Joint Economic Development Initiative (SJedi) has developed a sustainability Think Tank. recruited university students and faculty members, experts in multi-disciplinary fields, sustainability organizations, business elements, and NGOs to assist in the development and implementation of the Sustainable Village Model. This coalition is charged with the task of creating a bioregional zone within Liberia that will foster sustainable development in environmental management, business, community, and health. Saharan Sustainability Coalition (SASC). The SASCs management team consists of ESI, ASUs SJedi, and the Tufeia Foundation. ESI is the acting consultant on sustainability issues and is the registered International NGO in Liberia. ESI also fosters collaboration on development projects within sub-Saharan Africa. SJedi acts as the student think tank and faculty and expertise facilitator, and the Tufeia Foundation is the local in-country NGO and implementing agency. Tufeia manages the local staff and volunteer network, is the brain trust that helps maintain the local knowledge base, both new and traditional, and is the capacity buildercreating continuity and resilience within its organization. Tufeia also acts as liaison between the International NGOs, local citizenry and governments. The management team works directly with the Government of Liberia (GOL) to market its vision and gain approval to conduct sustainable development for the benefit of Liberia. Additionally, ESI partners with likeminded organizations such as ECOSA, ECHO, Environment Foundation of Africa, LIHEDE, Solar Electric Light Fund, Right To Play International, Global Resolve, NiJel, and others to create innovative solutions to the many development issues facing the project. This coalition of NGO, university, corporation, government, and citizen partnerships is referred to as the Sub-

iv

Partner Profiles
ECOSA ESI has partnered with the ECOSA Institute of Prescott Arizona who will design green shelters and structures that incorporate green building principles (passive solar). www.ecosainstitute.org ASU
Figure 2

In addition, ECOSA

will design edible landscaping systems and water catchments.

ESI has partnered with Arizona State Universitys (ASU) the School of Sustainability (SOS), and the student organization Sustainability Joint Economic Development Initiative (SJedi) as well as affiliated faculty and students to aid in the development of the SVMM concept in Liberia. Sustainability (GIOS). GIOSs mission is to spread sustainable science globally. The Institute conducts research, education, and problem-solving activities related to sustainability. The Institute initiates and nurtures work on issues of sustainability within myriad departments on each of ASUs the four campuses and collaborates with other academic institutions, governments, businesses and industries, and community groups locally, nationally, and globally. http://sustainability.asu.edu/gios/ ESI is collaborating with Professor Macia of ASU for the rights to his aquaponic fish pond design. Professor Webster (ESI Advisor) of ASUs SOS and Global Studies is completing an application for a Cities Alliance grant that will provide us the with the funding necessary to develop and implement a city development strategy for the county in our project area. Professor Henderson (SJedi Advisor) is developing an oil-based biofuel that can be used in cookers to replace the need for charcoal. Lela Prashad of Nijel and in corroboration with ASUs Remote Sensing Group are developing urban mapping and planning models based on GIS/Satellite imagery which incorporate such tools as Google Earth, Terra Look, etc.
Figure 3 Narciso F. Macias Aquaponic Fish Pond & Vegetable System
PUMP SUMP BIO FILTER PARTICLE FILTER FISH TANK

ESI has also partnered with ASUs Global Institute of

AQUAPONIC VEGETABLES

ECHO ECHO (Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization) is a non-profit, inter-denominational Christian organization that assists a global network of missionaries and development workers with agricultural projects in 180 countries. ECHO aims to provide technical assistance, training, and agricultural consulting to those working internationally with poor populations. for families growing food under difficult conditions." www.echonet.org EFA The Environmental Foundation for Africa (EFA) is an African-based NGO that aims to protect and restore the environment in West Africa. For over 15 years, EFA has led environmental education and awareness raising campaigns, restored degraded lands and conserved pristine forests, minimized the impacts of civil war on the environment and its inhabitants, and equipped thousands of people with sustainable livelihood skills such as agro-forestry. Today EFA specializes is environmental awareness raising and capacity building at the national, regional and international levels using high impact communications tools and training programs to build an environmentally conscious society motivated to maintain the integrity of nature in Africa. www.efasl.org.uk ECHOs mission is "to network with community leaders in developing countries to seek hunger solutions

vi

Table of Abbreviations
ASU CHA EWB GBV GIOS GOL LED MDG NCIIA NEDCAP NGO NRC PRS SELF SJEDI SM SVM SVSC USAID UV UNHCR SGBV
Arizona State University Community Health Aide Engineers without Borders Gender-Based Violence Global Institute of Sustainability Government of Liberia Local Economic Development Millennium Development Goals National Collegiate Investors and Innovators Association Non-Conventional Energy Development Corporation of Andre Pradesh Non-Government Organization Norwegian Refugee Council Poverty Reduction Strategy Solar Electric Light Fund Sustainable Joint Economic Development Initiative Sustainability Manager Sustainable Village Model Sustainable Village Service Center United States Agency for International Development Ultra Violet United Nations High Commission for Refugees Sexual Gender-Based Violence

vii

viii

PART 1 - INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUNDi

Problem Statement:
After 14 years of civil war, much of Liberias infrastructure remains in ruins. Pipe-born water and electricity remain unavailable in rural areas, a situation which contributes to disease and malnutrition among rural populations, especially children. The inhabitants of the SVMM project area, The Gbehyi Chiefdom, suffers from a preponderance of typhoid fever, malnutrition and starvation, diarrhea, worms, urinary tract infections, acute respiratory infections, anemia, eye infections, meningitis, and pelvic inflammatory disease.
ii

Because Liberia has just come out of a period of transition and entered a period of development, rural areas cannot yet look to their government as a source of support. In order to facilitate growth, the Government of Liberia must focus its attention on improving urban sectors before it is able to increase its scope to include the more rural regions. While the government of Liberia has included all of Liberia in its PRS, it is simply unable to meet the immediate needs of rural areas. Liberia remains a fragile nation recovering from the ill-effects of civil war. In order to survive, rural regions must become a self-sufficient and sustainable and end their dependence on local, regional, and international aid.

1.1 Introduction
Nimba County is the largest county in Liberia geographically (4460 sqmiles) and the second largest county in terms of total population. According to the 2008 Population and Housing Census, there are approximately 468,000 people living in Nimba County today. Montsserado County, where the capitol city of Monrovia is located (pop 1,010,970), has the largest population in Liberia, with 1,144,806 people.
Created byNiJeL Exclusivelyfor ESI

1.2 History
Nimba County attained county status during the presidential tenure of William V.S. Tubman by an act of the National legislature in 1964. The county is connected to Liberias capital, Monrovia, through a 298-kilometer route passing through Margibi and Bong counties. Nimba has been one of Liberias most significant historical regions and is the second most important county in terms of population and politics. Sanniquellie City, the countys capitol, played host to the first African state summit involving Guinea, Ghana, and Liberia on 25 May 1959, chaired by Liberias President William V.S. Tubman. This summit eventually led to the founding of the Organization of African Unity (now known as the African Union or AU) in Addis Ababa, in May 1963.
1

The county has also borne the brunt of successive civil unrest since the 1980s; some prominent sons of Nimba County have always been linked to coups and other forms of subversive activities in the country. It was from the border town of Butuo that Charles Taylor launched his assault on the Does regime in December of 1989, after a failed coup in 1985 led by General Thomas G. Quiwonkpa, a son of the county. It has been the site of massacres and ethnic tensions. Bordering Guinea and Cte dIvoire, that part of Liberia is of considerable geopolitical consequence. Prior to the civil war, the Liberia-American Mining Company (LAMCO) was involved in iron ore mining in Yekepa. This company provided work, education, medical care and other opportunities for both Liberians and non-Liberians in that part of the County. With the departure of the Americans, the company became a 100% Liberian company known as Liberian Mining Company (LIMICO). However, following the war, a 25-year mining contract was signed between the Liberian government and Arcelor Mittal in 2007. The company is expected to create over 3000 jobs initially. Basic social service infrastructure (schools, health facilities, power systems, water and sanitation, etc.) was destroyed during the civil war. This has contributed to the extreme vulnerability of the population in terms of food security, health care and education. Limited employment opportunities in the districts have also been lost. With the first post-war elected government and the assisted repatriation and resettlement of IDPs and refugees, communities are now beginning to rebuild their lives, but massive challenges remain.

1.3 Geography
Nimba County is situated roughly at the geographic center of Liberia. Bong County is on its westward border, Grand Basa and Rivercrass counties make up its southwest border (Grand Basa is located just north of Rivercrass), and Sinue County is on its southernmost border. Gedhey County is located just southeast of Nimba. The Ivory Coast makes up Nimba Countys northeast boundary while Guneai makes up its northwest boundary.

1.4 Demography
The Sustainable Village project area is the Gbehyi Chiefdom, 30 km SW of the major town of Saclepea in Saclepea District, Nimba County Liberia. The Gbehyi Chiefdom consists of a total of 12 towns and villages. Gbehyi is governed by a Paramount Chief who is democratically elected by the people and represents the entire chiefdom. Additionally, Gbehyi consists of two Clans, Lowee and Borpea, and each clan is divided into two zones. See Appendix VIII for the organizational structure of the chiefdom. 1.4.1 Population According to the 2008 National Population and Housing Census, Nimba County has a total population of 468,088. The Saclepea District has a total population of approximately 160,450 people. Saclepea Citys population is approximately 12,117. According to a 2007 survey completed by the Adventist Development and Relief Agency International (ADRA), there were 2,317 people living in 248 houses in the primary village of Duayee, while the estimated population of the entire twelve villages, which comprise the Gbehyi Chiefdom, was approximately 4,300. The Gbheyi Chiefdom is part of the Saclepea District. The population is considerably young. According to the 2005 voter statistics provided in the Nimba County Information Pack, 121,844 or 64% of a total of 190,264 registered voters were between the ages of 18-39. Gender distribution is fairly close: 46.37% female and 53.72% male. More than half of the females are within the child bearing ages of 14 to 49 years, giving rise to high fertility rates in the County.
3

1.4.2 Land Ownership The land in the Gbehyi Chiefdom is owned by the government, communities, families and/or individuals. Those who own their own land decide on its use, what to plant, how crop yields are used, where they are sold, etc. Land owners farm their own land or, if the land is on loan to another village member, the land is farmed by borrower. In this case, it is the borrower who decides what to plant and what to do with the produce and its proceeds. 1.4.3 Ethnic Composition All of Liberias sixteen ethnic groups are found in Nimba County, five of which represent the majority (Mano, Gio/Dahn, Gbi, Krahn and Mandingo). Of the five, the Gio and Mano are the predominant ethnic groups and are members of the Mende Fu language group, one of four language groups in Liberia. The Gbehyi Chiefdom is part of the Mano group. Over the years, the tribal groups of the County have been interlinked through marriage. The villages in the Lowee Clan include Duanpa, Gborwin, and Banla (zone), Duayee Nyiayi, and Yekehyee (zone). The villages in the Borpea Clan include Teingbein, Guawin, and Gbarnpa (zone), Fleedin, Garwonpa, and Mehnla (zone). 1.4.4 Religion There are three major faiths practiced in Nimba County: Christianity, Islam and the Bahai Faith. African traditional practices also play an important role in religious practices within the County. Christianity is the dominant religion, followed by Islam. The dominant local Christian denominations include the Catholic Church, Methodist Church, Baptist Church, Lutheran Church, Episcopal Church, Presbyterian Church, Pentecostal Related Churches, Seven Day Adventist, Jehovah Witnesses, Church of Christ, Mid-Baptist Church, Church of the Lord Aladura, and Inland Church. The Methodist Church, The Baptist Church, and the Catholic Church are the only denominations present in the Gbehyi Chiefdom. While Islam is practiced in nearly every district of the County, it is not practiced in the Gbehyi Chiefdom. In addition to promoting their specific doctrines, religious institutions have served as partners to the Government and local communities and have provided basic services such as education, health services, training, etc.

1.5 Institutional Structure

Sanniquellie is the seat of the Nimba County administration. The county has six administrative districts (Gbehlageh, Saclepea, Sanniquelle-Mahn, Tappita, Yarwein-Mehnsohnneh and Zoegeh) and seven electoral districts, each with newly-elected representatives to the National Legislature. At the level of the Liberian senate the county has a senior senator and a junior senator. The county administration is headed by a Superintendent and has representatives from key line ministries. Districts are headed by District Commissioners (Appendix VIII). Traditional authority is vested in a Paramount chief and a council of elders, representing various tribal identities in the county (AppendixVIII ). The Gbehyi Chiefdom consists of two major Clans, the Lowee Clan, and the Borpea Clan, and is headed by a paramount chief (Figure 1). Each clan is divided into two zones with a zone chief. Each zone has 3 villages, each with a village chief. Each village is further divided into quarters consisting of quarter chiefs, and thus, daily administration is accomplished at the lower quarter chief levels, while issues of increasing importance flow up the chain of seniority until all disputes are resolved. Additionally, a council of elder representatives from each village assembles and is consulted on all major issues. Please see Appendixes VIII and VIX for Government, County, and Chiefdom organizational structures.
5

Very complicated issues and or agreements affecting the entire area require an assembly of all representative chiefs and the council of elders in order to gain resolution and acceptance. The Paramount Chief represents the wishes of the entire clan and works with the District Commissioner to ensure that the Chiefdoms interests are represented at the county and national levels. A District Development fund has been established by the National government. The village chiefs state that they have yet to see proceeds from that fund. The Government of Liberia is The former nurse responsible for the provision of a nurse and teachers for the Chiefdom.

subsisted on a salary of US $75.00 per year. The clinic has been without a nurse since September 2007. The teachers are recruited from the surrounding villages and most of them are volunteers. The Duayee School has a total ten teachers. There is no Clan tax. The chiefs and elders serve on a voluntary basis. When emergency issues come up and the need arises, village households are taxed to meet the obligations of the community. There are no protected areas in the clan and many endangered species are hunted in the area. Liberia is an agrarian society. Approximately 70% of the Liberian population survives on subsistent farming. Teachers and healthcare workers alike are supported through these means. Families crop yields are sold and the proceeds are used to pay their childrens tuitions and their family medical expenses.

1.6 Methodology
The Sustainable Village Model (SVM) was developed expressly to address Liberias Poverty Reduction Strategy 2008-2011 and the UN MDGs. The SVM should be considered a localized strategy to help carry the nation toward its PRS and MDG goals. The development of the SVM began with meetings of the village chiefs and elders of the Gbehyi Chiefdom who, along with representatives of the Tufeia Foundation and ESI, identified several development priorities for the region. Following these meetings, representatives from the Tufeia Foundation and ESI met with mayoral representatives to confirm the priority needs identified during the village meetings. The consortium met with five mayors of Nimba County , the Nimba
Nimba County Mayors
iii

County Superintendent (governor) Hon. Robert Kamei, and Nohn Emmanuel L. Paye, the Ganta City Administrator. Finally, ESI and Tufeia Representatives consulted with the Nimba County Caucus in order to consolidate and harmonize Gbehyi Chiefdom priorities. In Monrovia, the consultations
iv

involved five of seven members of the Nimba County Caucus,

including Senior Senator Prince Johnson. Other consultations included meetings with a crosssection of stakeholders in the region, including the Ministry of Planning; the Liberian Environment Protection Agency; the United Nations Habitat; The Lowee and Borpea Clans and Town Chiefs; local NGOs and CBOs including the Right to Play International. The meetings with village chiefs and elders afforded the participants the opportunity to consider lessons of the past in an effort to plan for the next five years, prioritizing their needs and the actions required to reach their goals. Using the input from all of the participants of the consultations, the Sustainable Village Model was drafted and focuses on two of the four Pillars of the national Poverty Reduction Strategy: Economic Revitalization (Pillar 2) and Infrastructure and Basic Social Services (Pillar 4) which are discussed in detail in Part 2. ESI employed a pragmatic methodology to determine the most effective means of addressing the priority needs of the Gbehyi Chiefdom. This methodology was dependent upon empirical evidence, case studies, and surveys and questionnaires that were administered in April 2008. Empirical evidence for the selected locations of the Gbehyi Chiefdom included macro and micro level data. Macro-data was derived from the Liberian Population and Housing Census 2008, UNICEF, The World Health Organization, the United Nations Development Program, The United Nations Millennium Development Goals, and USAID while regional data was derived from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), Liberias Poverty Reduction Strategy, and Liberias 2008 Population and Housing Census.
ESI and the Nimba County Caucus
v

Micro level data is limited to the Nimba County Development Agenda, and the Nimba County Information Pack, clinical reports from the village of Duyaee, a SWOT analysis of the region (Appendix X: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats), Adventist Development and Relief Agency International (ADRA), and surveys and questionnaires administered by The Tufeia Foundation in April 2008. Questionnaires and surveys were composed of: Construction Related Questions for the Residents of the Gbehyi Chiefdom Health Care Questionnaires for Local Health Care Practitioners General Health Questionnaires for Community Members (These include eating cooking habits) Questions Primarily for the Village Elders of the Gbehyi Chiefdom Questions regarding Water and Sanitation Questions for Community Members Related to Local Natural Resources

Case Studies included the Sunstove Organization Project in South Africa and the implementation of various Renewable Sources of Energy programs in the State of Andhra Pradesh by The NonConventional Energy Development Corporation of Andhra Pradesh Ltd (NEDCAP). The Gbehyi Chiefdom (which includes the rural town of Duayee and its 11 surrounding villages) was chosen as an implementation site due to the prevalence of poverty, disease, malnutrition and lack of basic services necessary for survival and sustainability. The Village Council asked ESI to develop a system to address the priority needs of the Gbehyi Chiefdom, which include renewable energy, clean water, clean air, sanitation, and food security. To address these needs, ESI will renovate homes with solar power, composting toilets, and water cisterns. We will also incorporate landscaping with edible plants, aquaponic fish farming, swamp rice, organic banana and plantain farms, a bamboo plantation, solar cookers, and a jatropha farm for biofuel production. These innovations will increase food security, provide clean air and water, provide medical storage and sanitary medical working conditions, and manage human and other forms of waste.

PART 2 - PRIORITIES, ISSUES, AND ACTIONSvi

The Government of Liberia has designed a poverty reduction strategy that includes four pillars: Security, Economic Revitalization, Governance and Rule of Law, and Infrastructure and Basic Services.
vii

The SVM will contribute positively to the successful implementation of Pillars II and IV

in rural areas: Economic Revitalization and Infrastructure and Basic Services.

Liberias Strategic Framework: The Four Pillars S Source: Liberias Poverty Reduction Strategy

The Gbheyi Chiefdom was chosen as an implementation site due to the prevalence of poverty, disease, malnutrition and lack of basic services necessary for survival and sustainability. The Village Council has asked ESI to develop a system to its priority needs: renewable energy, clean water, clean air, sanitation, and food security. In response to the Councils request, ESI developed a Sustainable Village (SVM) Model in which appropriate green technology and local resources are used to improve livelihoods by meeting basic needs and providing the opportunity for micro-business growth and development. The model contains two pillars: (1) Sustainable Renovations of Existing Village Homes and (2) the construction of a Sustainable Village Service Center to oversee the implementation of new technologies and provide opportunities for microbusiness.

2.1 Development Priorities

2.1.1 District Priorities Priorities common to all districts in Nimba include basic social service infrastructure: roads, heath facilities and educational facilities. Fifty-one secondary roads were prioritized by all districts for construction or rehabilitation, 51 health facilities and 49 educational facilities were also prioritized by all districts. Other selected priorities include four WATSAN facilities, two district headquarters/civil compounds and one Police Station. 2.1.2 County Priorities The County priorities reflect a consolidation of district priorities. District representative groups met on November 1-2, 2007 in Sanniquellie and ranked three out of seven priority needs identified by districts as outcomes of five district consultation workshops. Priority needs included roads and bridges, education, health, civil compound, police station, WATSAN/hand pumps and agriculture/food security. 2.1.3 Gbehyi Chiefdom Priorities The Village Council has asked ESI to develop a system to meet its priority needs: renewable energy, education, health services, clean water, clean air, sanitation, and food security.

2.2 Infrastructure and Basic Services Pillar

As in the rest of Liberia, basic social services remain seriously challenged in Nimba. The Government of Liberia, UN agencies, UNMIL and other development agencies are however, making significant strides. Future power generation, safe water supplies and improved housing facilities should support projected business and industry growth. 2.2.1 Health There are currently 41 functioning clinics in Nimba County. Access to health care facilities for the estimated population of 732,195 is 435:1.
viii

There are 526 Ministry of Health assigned health

workers serving at these facilities. Nurse aids constitute 21.2% of all health workers in the County, followed by registered nurses (17%), and trained traditional midwives (13%). Doctors make up only 0.9% of health workers in the County. In the Gbehyi Chiefdom, there is one clinic servicing the entire population. The clinic has not been staffed since September 2007.

10

Functional Health Care Facilities in Nimba

Beginning in the fall of 2008, ESI Board of Advisor member Gregg McNeil, M.D., will embark on a one-year mission to Ganta, Nimba County, to help build the capacity of the only major hospital in the region, the Ganta United Methodist Hospital. Dr. McNeil plans to set up laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery centers as well as training programs for surgeons and technicians to learn new surgical techniques. He will also establish a rotational training program for doctors from the US to travel to Liberia to learn austere, rural and tropical medical techniques. He is currently negotiating with Pentax regarding future donations of endoscope equipment. ESIs capacity-building project includes developing a dependable means of health-care delivery to the Gbehyi Chiefdom amid an extreme shortage of providers. With the help of Dr. McNeil, ESI is working to create a Community Health Aide Program (similar to the ones used in Alaska and other United States Health Service programs) to supplement the Ministry of Healths current strategy to meet the health care needs of its citizens.

11

2.2.2 Air Quality Cooking fires across Africa are projected to release about seven billion tons of carbon in the form of greenhouse gases to the environment by 2050, and about six percent of the total expected greenhouse gases will come from Africa. More than 1.6 million people, primarily women and children, die prematurely each year from respiratory diseases caused by the pollution from such fires. Scientists estimate that smoke from wood fires used for cooking will cause 10 million premature deaths among women and children by 2030 in Africa.
x ix

According to the Non-Conventional Energy Development Corporation of Andre Pradesh (NEDCAP), one village in Andre Pradesh, India, saved 72 tons of firewood and reduced its carbon dioxide emissions to 104 tons during the first year. Little effort was needed by the officials of NEDCAP to motivate the village residents to go solar. The Sunstove Organisation in South Africa has manufactured and promoted the Sunstove - a unique solar cooker - since 1992. It is a thermally efficient solar cooker. The solar cooker has proven be to an acceptable alternative to traditional cooking practices among its rural users.
xi

ESI intends to replace the conventional cooking practices (burning of wood, cow dung and crop residues) with solar cookers and other integrated cooking methods in an effort to reduce respiratory disease among women and children and to reduce carbon emissions in this region.

2.2.3 Water and Sanitation Access to acceptable level of sanitation and safe drinking water sources is poor. Contamination of water supplies has led to diarrhea and cholera outbreaks - two of the biggest child killers in post-civil war Liberia. Diarrhea alone is responsible for 22% of deaths in children under the age of five.
xii

12

Past efforts in Duyaee have included the construction of water wells and exterior latrines by UNICEF, the European Commissions Humanitarian Aid Organization (ECHO) and the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA). In 2007, ADRA in coordination with ECHO renovated one well, constructed two new wells, and installed hand pumps on existing and new wells. In addition, 38 family latrines were constructed. 12 community members were trained in well maintenance and a committee was established to collect $5 Liberian monthly for the sole use of purchasing parts needed for well maintenance. Unfortunately, hand-pumped wells do not address the problem in its entirety, as water is scarce during the dry season. ESI will construct water catchments in the village and utilize UV disinfection technology in order to provide the community with safe clean water year-round. UV disinfection technology has received much interest in the water industry since it was demonstrated that UV radiation is very effective against Cryptosporidium and Giardia, two pathogenic microorganisms of major importance for the safety of drinking water. The results of a recent study show that UV is effective against all waterborne pathogens. microorganisms relevant for current drinking water practices. Moreover, UV
xiii

irradiation demonstrates that the process is effective against all pathogenic UV water disinfection is inexpensive, user-friendly, and portable. With the use of solar power, UV devices can be easily charged. Providing the community with a safe water supply is critical to the survival of the Gbehyi Chiefdom. 2.2.4 Education In Nimba County, there are 554 schools for a student population of 145,272 (53% male and 47% female). There are 34 upper secondary schools and no formal multilateral/vocational/ college/university level institutions in the County. Out of 4,114 schoolteachers in the region, only 1,311 have been reactivated. In the Gbehyi Chiefdom, there are several primary schools and only one secondary school. Today, the secondary school is located in They
xiv

Duayee and educates children and adults in grades K 9. intend to add a grade a year and expect to be a fully functional K-12 school by 2011.
13

ESI is committed to providing solar panels to power the secondary school in the town of Duayee within the Gbehyi Chiefdom. In terms of long-term educational benefits, the provision of solar power will allow night school programs to operate more efficiently after dark, programs that include not only academic education, but also vocational training, HIV/AIDS education, sex education and self-defense classes. This will increase access to information for both children and adults who work on the farms during the day. Moreover, thanks to satellite technology, Duayee will be on line in the very near future and will enjoy all of the instructional benefits the World Wide Web has to offer. Moreover, a school equipped with solar power and internet technology will allow local farmers to be trained in new farming, seed, and grain storage techniques, and will allow children to enjoy access to educational materials not previously available to them. 2.2.5 Food Security Increased investment in human capacity is essential to accelerate food security improvements and to increase employment opportunities for village children and adults. In agricultural areas, there is a direct link between education and the ability of farmers to adopt more advanced technologies and crop-management techniques and to achieve higher rates of return on land. Moreover, education encourages movement into other types of work, thus increasing household income. Most importantly, womens education affects nearly every dimension of development, from lowering fertility rates to raising productivity and improving environmental management. separate food security from the larger need of education for women and girls. In order to achieve food security, ESI will construct dry grain storage and food drying systems. Solar food dryers can easily be utilized to dry grain harvests prior to storage. Solar food dryers are incredibly cheap, efficient, and hygienic.
xvi xv

One cannot

They

also produce healthy products as grains are dried at optimum temperatures for a short amount of time. This enables them to retain more of their nutritional value such as vitamin C. Foods dried in solar dryers look and taste better, which enhances their marketability and hence provides better financial returns for the farmers. children will be trained in these technologies. Appropriately sized, low-cost dryers and food processing units are easily integrated into rural areas and can operate without interruption. At the village level, local farmers who want to process their surplus crops into acceptable and marketable food items can utilize lowcost but efficient dryers for their operations. In addition, villages that utilize these techniques are truly sustainable -- they combine abundant food production and the
14
xvii

Farmers as well as village

generation of much-needed income with the use of solar techniques, which both protect and improve the natural environment over the long term. 2.2.6 Electricity There is no grid system in Nimba, and only a minority of the population has access to electricity. The Yah River has the potential to provide hydropower generation to the Gbehyi Chiefdom, but production would be seasonal approximately 7/12 months out of the year. At present, individuals and villages produce power with small privately owned generators. This is very costly and contributes to the high cost of goods and services. ESIs SVM addresses the critical need of power. Solar panels will initially be provided for schools, the home of the Paramount Chief, and the clinic.
xviii

We are currently working with

the Environment Foundation of Africa and the Solar Electric Light Fund in an effort to provide maintenance training to the villagers as well as developing a payment scheme similar to the one developed for the hand-pumped wells discussed in section 2.2.3. 2.2.7 Housing Within the Gbehyi Chiefdom, there is a definite need to develop sustainable housing. Houses are without window coverings and the majority lack adequate screening. Houses are constructed for shelter rather than efficiency, safety, or health. ESI partner, the ECOSA Institute of Prescott Arizona, has agreed to assist in the design of sustainable homes for the Gbehyi Chiefdom. Such homes will utilize protective screens, mosquito nets, water catchments and UV disinfection, self-composting toilets, solar cookers and eco-stoves. Homes will be constructed using local resources, such as mud brick and bamboo. ESI has also partnered with ECHO (Educational Concerns for Hunger Organization) who will aid in the design of edible landscaping systems. Moreover, ECOSA has agreed to provide a partial scholarship to a member of our implementing in-country partner, The Tufeia Foundation, so that they are equipped with the skills necessary to oversee such a project.

15

2.3 Economic Revitalization Pillar

The local economy is primarily based on subsistence agriculture and informal sector activities, such as trading in dry goods, used clothing and food staple such as cassava, palm oil and vegetables. The majority of income generated is used for food, school expenses, clothing and heath care. Timber and rubber are the most important cash crops in the County, though currently produced well below potential. There are also ample natural endowments of iron ore, gold and diamonds. As timber sanctions are lifted, this sector is expected to attract additional investment and create jobs. The construction of new roads and the rehabilitation of existing roads will help to open up the interior, introduce modern facilities and stimulate settlement. ESIs economic revitalization pillar utilizes the regions abundant natural resource as well as agriculture practices. ESIs economic growth strategies also target the informal sector, especially women, and will enable them to shift to more profitable ventures through training, technology, and better market information. See appendix II for a complete list of ESIs proposed micro-businesses.

2.3.1 Natural Resources Timber Nimba County hosts many tree species that produce precious timber, formerly one of the most important sources of employment and income to the people. Timber exploitation was halted with the sanctions imposed by the UN Security Council, and the Government of Liberia cancelled all concession agreements for timber. Nimba Countys tropical forest is threatened with indiscriminate exploitation of forest products either for export or for domestic use, extinction of rare species of trees, shifting or nomadic cultivation that leads to the destruction of the forest. More environmentally- and labor-friendly agreements with new concessionaires are anticipated. ESI will instruct members of the Gbheyi Chiefdom on the many uses of bamboo, an abundant resource in the area whose removal does not threaten protected areas. Bamboo can be used to construct homes and buildings and to manufacture textiles and is easily traded in local, regional, national, and international markets. ESI in collaboration with Buchanan Renewable Energy, Inc. is working to develop appropriate biofuel technologies using biomass (from dead rubber trees and landscape waste products), algae, cellulosic ethanol, and jatropha tree (a small and previously unused plant) in mass amounts for biofuel. Polytechnic Campus.
16

ASU has many resources available to ESI in

this regard including a bio-fuel project conducted by Dr. Milt Sommerfeld at the

Tourism Because Nimba has many attractive mountains, valleys, and waterways, investment in tourism has serious economic growth potential. Such investment must however be well planned to consider the infrastructure needs. Nimba attracts over 500,000 visitors annually, but the County lacks any hospitality services, despite the availability of competitive human and local material resources. In The Gbehyi Chiefdom, tourism potential will be harnessed with the construction of guest houses, recreational centers, and restaurants and will showcase traditional culture and green innovations (solar power and cooking methods, water catchments, green structures, edible landscape systems, and bio-research facilities). 2.3.2 Agriculture Subsistence farming is currently the main source of income of the people of Nimba. Apart from small agricultural projects undertaken by some youth and womens associations and other NGOs, there is not yet any large-scale farming in the County. The typical farming pattern is slash-andburn and annual bush fallowing. The main food products are rice, cassava, plantain, banana, yam, and sweet potatoes. Some 75% of farm produce is used for family consumption Cash crop production of rubber trees, cocoa, sugar cane and coffee is the other main source of income in the County. The cultivation of 13,500 hectares of tree crops will eventually lead to economic growth through sale of products, value addition and job creation. ESI intends to train local farmers on crop management and rotation and introduce appropriate seed varieties in order to increase higher yields of return on their harvests. ESI will provide the initial investment of plants for edible landscaping systems as well as large-scale farming, including winged beans, katuk, root crops (taro, cassava, sweet potatoes, and yams), tropical fruits (bananas, jackfruit, and coconuts) and cash crops (cacao, cinnamon, palm, moringa, and jatropha trees). In addition, we will also construct dry storage units and introduce solar dryers to the region. 2.3.3 The Sustainable Village Service Center ESI will construct a Sustainable Village Center (SVSC) in Duayee, the heart of the Gbheyi Chiefdom. SVSC is the backbone of the SVM. The purpose of the SVSC is to provide economic stability for the Gbeyhi Chiefdom through the provision of consulting and funding services for the creation of micro-businesses. These businesses include
17

agribusiness,

medicinal

plant

nurseries, edible food production, Internet Cafs, waste management, biofuel research, water collection and harvesting, and bamboo harvesting (see Appendix II). Local staff will operate the SVSC and will provide blueprints and products for implementation of sustainable renovations. Members of ESI Liberia and the Tufeia Foundation will train SVSC staff members in the use , maintenance, and repair of sustainable technology. The SVSC will be constructed by the villagers using local natural resources, such as mud brick and bamboo. Bamboo is abundant in the region and can be used as a sound construction material as well as for flooring, matting, and furniture. The structure will incorporate many different bamboo styles and will be furnished with bamboo furniture in order to emphasize its variable uses. Moreover, ESI in cooperation with local farmers and plantation owners will form a coop to grow bamboo for use in construction and furniture. Because the Gbehyi Chiefdom is surrounded by swamplands, bamboo can be grown and harvested while maintaining the biodiversity of the surrounding jungle and forests. Bamboo is also a high value commodity on the global market. Growing and In harvesting of bamboo will serve as an additional income source for the village.

addition, the use of bamboo will provide a replacement source for the use of timber in Liberias quickly disappearing forests due to deforestation. Consequently, deforestation is greatly decreased. The SVSCs shell will be made of mud brick. Initially bricks will be produced in the traditional hand-pressed manner. However, once increased community revenues are realized, a brick compressor can be purchased and used to make bricks. Compressors can produce The SVSCs approximately 200 bricks per day. At this rate, bricks can be exported for additional revenue. roof will be made of concrete rather than imported metal sheeting. Micro-concrete roofing machines utilize sand, mud, and cement, all of which are readily available. ESI will act as a broker, partnering with like-minded nonprofits and NGOs to gain access to current appropriate technologies and make these available to Duayee villagers. The Sustainable Village Model aids in the progress of Liberias Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy (PRS). This model will meet goals stated by the PRS by creating basic community infrastructure, establishing micro-enterprise, stimulating export sectors, and revitalizing the economy.
18

2.4 Cross-Cutting Issues

In the public consultations that led to the development of the Nimba Countys Community Development Agenda and the Poverty Reduction Strategy, participants managed to identify several cross-cutting themes for consideration in implementing local and national development plans, including Gender Equity; HIV and AIDS; and Children and Youth. As part of the effort to mainstream these issues into ESIs development initiatives, this section lays out the context and objectives for each. 2.4.1 Gender Equity ESI is strongly committed to gender equity as a means to maintain peace, reduce poverty, enhance justice and promote development. Despite progress made since the end of the war, gender continues to play a decisive role in determining access to resources and services. Women and girls have limited access to education, health services and judicial services, which severely curtails their participation in the formal economy. Women and girls have been missing out on opportunities and participation in management and decision-making on all levels of the society. This trend has contributed to feminization of poverty in the County, and in Liberia as a whole. Sexual gender-based violence (SGBV) is blight on Liberian society and for many Liberian women and girls. The violence experienced during wartime has not subsided. Rape is the most frequently reported violent crime in Liberia. In 2007, 38% of the protection cases reported by United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and National Refugee Center monitors were SGBV related and reports from 2008 show similar trend. Domestic violence is endemic and Liberia has among the highest rates of teenage pregnancy in the world. Destruction of institutions during the war affected all Liberians, but particularly limited womens and girls access to education. Today, the ratio of girls to boys enrolment is 95/100 in primary schools, 75/100 in secondary schools, and twice as many women as men are illiterate. Despite the laws recognizing equality of the sexes, customary law and practices prevail, some of which are harmful to women and girls. The SVM attacks the problem of SGBV and GBV head on. ESI has developed a self-defense program based on the principals of Go-Ju, a form of Karate which utilizes both hard and soft self-defense techniques. The Go-Ju philosophy of martial arts stresses dignity, self-respect and self-discipline; respect for others and the natural environment; and the balance and harmony of the various aspects of self, environment, and interaction with others (the very essence of sustainability). Because this specific form of Karate is well suited for people of all sizes and ages, ESI believes that the use Goju techniques in conjunction with other self-defense techniques will empower the most vulnerable populations in Liberia. ESI
19

is continually developing its GBV awareness and education programs and its self-defense programs. ESI is also negotiating with the Right to Play International to develop Peace-Through-Sport programs and after-school programs that will teach youth, both male and female, the ideals of fair play, tolerance, self-discipline, and self-respect as well as respect for their fellow man and the environment. 2.4.2 HIV and AIDS HIV and AIDS are major challenges as the epidemic has the potential to slow the progress of many initiatives meant to build much-needed human capital and revitalize the economy. In an effort to combat this trend, citizens must be provided the skills and knowledge to halt the spread of HIV and to minimize its impact. Integrating HIV/AIDS education into poverty reduction strategies helps create the necessary policy and planning environment for a comprehensive, multi-sectoral response. While no County-specific data is available, a 2007 DHS estimates national HIV prevalence at 1.5 percent, or 1.8 percent for females and 1.2 percent for males. A previous estimate of 5.7 percent was based on the results of sentinel surveillance among pregnant women and girls attending ten antenatal care (ANC) clinics in urban areas. Future studies will seek to reconcile these seemingly disparate findings. In any event, the war left most of the population severely challenged in meeting their social, cultural and economic needs, thereby making them vulnerable to a sharp increase in HIV prevalence, the likely result of which would be a negative impact on development: increased child and adult morbidity and mortality, increased absenteeism at the workplace and in schools, and lower economic output, among other effects. By strengthening the health infrastructure at the village level, the SVM works to promote human development by reducing the impact of HIV/AIDS vulnerability, morbidity and mortality through education and training programs. County health authorities will participate in the development and implementation of the Community Health Aide program, thereby reducing new HIV infections through the provision of education and increased access to treatment and care services while mitigating the impact of the epidemic on those already infected and affected. 2.4.3 Children and Youth

20

Nimba County is committed to reducing and laying the groundwork for eliminating child poverty. Children are at high risk of becoming the next generation of impoverished citizens unless substantive measures are taken to break the intergenerational cycle of poverty. Poverty reduction efforts must have children at the core. Children make up the majority of the population of the County. Nationally, around 17 percent of child deaths are attributable to malaria and another 20 percent to preventable environmental diseases such as diarrhea and cholera. Almost forty percent of children are growthstunted from poor nutrition, about one third of under-fives are severely underweight, and recent estimates indicate that one in five deaths in children under-five is attributable to malnutrition. Less than half of all births are delivered by a health professional, which contributes to an unacceptably high (and apparently rising) maternal mortality rate. Furthermore, young female citizens suffer the brunt of the epidemic of gender based violence (GBV). The majority of girls have their first child before reaching the age of 18 due to forced early marriages and rape. As outlined above, ESIs SVM model addresses all of these concerns and, once incorporated, should result in improved health and well being, increased gains in education, decreased poverty, and decreases in maternal mortality rates, diseases, and GBV.

21

Part 3 - ESI and the UNITED NATIONS MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS

The Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) are a set of eight goals established by the international development They as were the community in response to the worlds major challenges. established benchmark for in for a
Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women
Gender parity Index in primary level enrolment (ratio of girls to boys): 0.7 Literacy rates of 15-24 years old (% both sexes): 67.4 Seats held by women in national parliament (%): 12.5

Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger

Population below PPP $1 per day (%): N/A Children under 5 who are moderately or severely underweight (%): 26.4 Population living below the national poverty line (%): N/A

Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education

Net enrolment ratio in primary education (% both sexes): 65.7 Percentage of pupils starting Grade 1 and reach Grade 5 (% both sexes): N/A

2000 and normally use 1990 measuring progress 2015. Achieving the MDGs will be a challenge for many developing countries, but it will be even more difficult for Liberia due to the legacy of the war. While most countries were making at least some progress toward the MDGs between Liberia 1990 was and 2003, moving

period of 25 years: 1990-

Goal 4: Reduce child mortality

Mortality rate of children under 5 years old (per 1,000 live births): 235 1-year-old children immunized against measles (%): 94

Goal 5: Improve maternal health

Maternal mortality ratio (per 100,000 births): 760

Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases

People living with HIV,15-49 yrs old (%): 5.1 Prevalence of tuberculosis (per 100,000 people): 507

Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability

Land area covered by forest (%): 32.7 Carbon dioxide emissions per capita (metric tons): 0.1401 Access to improved drinking water sources (% of total population): 61

dramatically backwards and losing the capacity needed to achieve the MDGs. All of Liberias in 1990.
Li

indicators

were

Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development

Internet users (per 100 people): 0.0 Youth unemployment rate, ages 15-24, both sexes : N/A

worse in 2000 than they were

Thus, to achieve any of the MDGs, Liberia must make

Liberia 2004 UN MDG Report

larger gains in a shorter period of time than almost any other country. Nevertheless, the Government has been making steady progress toward the MDGs through a series of policies

22

implemented in the 150-Day Action Plan and the PRS (see Appendix VI for a discussion of Liberia and the UN MDGs). ESIs Sustainable Village Model will facilitate movement toward meeting the all eight of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDG). Successful implementation of the model will decrease extreme poverty and hunger in rural regions through the implementation of local economic development, improvements in crop management techniques, and increased food security; improve the quality of education via internet capability and investment in human capacity; promote gender equality and empower women by providing opportunities for participation in micro-business and the provision of gender-based violence programs; reduce child mortality and improve maternal health through the provision of community health aids; combat malaria and other diseases through the provision of clean water, clean air, the construction of safe, sustainable homes and health and sex education programs; ensure environmental sustainability by working in harmony with the natural environment; and develop global partnerships for development.

23

Part 4 ESI and the WORLD BANKS APPROACH TO LOCAL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
According to Rodrigues-Pose and Tijmstras 2005 report to the World Bank, The combination of strong internal heterogeneity with general trends similar to those experienced elsewhere in the world make Local Economic Development (LED) strategies as likely to succeed in [Africa] as in most other low- and middle-income countries. LED can thus be considered as a complement or an alternative to existing development strategies on the Continent.
xix

In Africa, LED often fails because it is identified with self-reliance, survival, and poverty alleviation rather than participation in the global economy, competitiveness, and finding market niches. It is imperative that LED in Liberia combines both the economic and social dimensions of LED. The Sustainable Village Model does just this. Our focus on sustainability includes self-reliance, survival and poverty alleviation while making sure that residents find market niches (see Appendix II) so that they are competitive in local, national, and global markets. Moreover, the success of the LED process is dependent on cooperation between the local government and other local stakeholders. The ability of local governments to encourage participation among a variety of stakeholders in the formulation and implementation of public policies, as well as the pre-existence of formal and informal organizations of key local stakeholders with which local governments can liaise, will greatly impact the success of LED strategies.
xx

SJEDI and ESI intend to work in partnership with the Government of Liberia, local

and international businesses, and local and international NGOs. We also intend to facilitate cooperation among stakeholders.

24

Part 5 - MARKET STRATEGY

5.1 Market Analysis
ESIs Sustainable Village Model is marketed to rural Liberia. In this market segment, the poverty rate is above 80%, access to clean water is less than 4%, and the illiteracy rate is over 82%. In The Gbehyi Chiefdom, there are approximately 4,300 individuals of an average age of 18.1. The primary activity of the residents of The Gbehyi Chiefdom is subsistence farming. Market structure is small and subsistence-based given that average income is below $200. No one in the village is employed by the formal sector, some work in the informal sector, but most work in the subsistence agricultural sector. The villagers have expressed strong interest in creating sustainable income and providing clean water and electricity through green technology. The village council has requested implementation of the sustainable village model as well as the consulting services of the ESI for implementing the model and creating associated businesses and industry. The village infrastructure is very weak. The majority of homes are cement and sand structures with rusted tin roofs. They have no screens and few windows. There is a small clinic which was formerly open Monday through Friday. The clinic primarily treated Malaria and provided midwives for childbirth. The clinic, which operates without basic supplies and little electricity, has been unstaffed since September 2007. There is a single, nine-room school house serving grades K-9. The school will serve grades K-12 by 2011. The school has no electricity for computers or night classes. Night classes are conducted with lanterns and flashlights. Liberia has an abundance of trees, water, food sources, minerals, and entrepreneurial spirit. In order to achieve true sustainable, the villagers need only sustainable concepts and sound management. ESI can meet these needs.

5.2 Market Structure

Although many NGOs currently work in Liberia, no other NGO is has developed a completely comprehensive approach to sustainability and autonomy. While there is no direct competition with the SVM, there is much potential for cooperation. Other organizations such as UN, USAID, the World Bank as well as international NGOs can easily be integrated into this endeavor. ESI hopes to bring together International NGOs and bilateral aid agencies to make the SVM a reality.

25

To provide materials to this market, ESI will utilize its partnership with local implanting NGO, the Tufeia foundation. ESI will purchase and ship materials from suppliers to ESI Liberia (ESIL) and the Tufeia foundation, which will then build the SVSC and renovate homes.

5.3 Sales Strategy

Once the model structures are built, ESI will sponsor showcase events for the surrounding village chiefs, business leaders, government officials, and individuals, to tour the model facilities and explain the products and services available. ESI will also solicit partners and potential expansion sites. Staffing requirements and local office sites will be initially determined by the level of interest for neighboring villages and the technical requests received. We intend to expand regionally while moderating the degree of business development to ensure successful business modeling prior to expansion.

5.4 Project Time Lime

STAGE 1: May 2008 [Completed] The first phase consists of questionnaires and surveys that are composed of: Construction Related Questions for the Residents of The Gbehyi Chiefdom Health Care Questionnaires for Local Health Care Practitioners General Health Questionnaires for Community Members (These include eating and cooking habits) Questions Primarily for the Village Elders of The Gbehyi Chiefdom Questions regarding Water and Sanitation (including data collection of water samples) Questions for Community Members Related to Local Natural Resources (Resources that might be used as alternative energy sources in conjunction with solar energy) STAGE 2: November 2008 The second phase of the SC includes sending a physician to Liberia in order to improve access to health care in rural Liberia. Our visiting physician, Dr. Gregg McNeil, will spend one year incountry and will Develop a Community Health Aide Program Introduce ESIs CHA Program to the Ministry of Health Train CHAs to service the Gbheyi Chiefdom Establish a laporoscopic and endoscopic surgery center Train local practitioners in current laporoscopic and endoscopic surgical techniques

26

STAGE 3: January 2009 Phase three involves the introduction of solar devices and agricultural improvements. We will Install solar generation devices on the village school, medical clinic, and the home of the village Chief Solar devices will provide lighting and power for future internet capability, an essential element of todays learning environment. Internet access will assist in decreasing the learning gap and increasing human capacity through IT technology The clinic currently utilizes one solar panel with a generator backup for the refrigeration of medications and vaccines Additional panels will allow clinicians to work in the evenings and perform minor out-patient procedures Solar Power will enable visiting surgeons to conduct safe and hygienic surgery Introduce Integrated Cooking Methods Introduce UV Water Sanitation / Water Reclamation Introduce crop management techniques Introduce new seeds to local farmers and plantation owners

STAGE 4: September 2008 August 2009 Stage four involves designing model mud-brick home using building design (CAD) software to perfect design concepts and develop blueprints and guidelines for eventual export. STAGE 5: January 2010 Stage five is the construction phase of the SVM. In January of 2010, we will Construct the Sustainable Village Service Center in Duayee (which will the twelve villages that comprise the Gbheyi Chiefdom) with the assistance of our implementation partner, the Liberia-based NGO, the Tufeia Foundation Sponsor a showcase project in Duayee Renovate Paramount Chiefs Quarter

STAGE 6: June 2010 January 2012 Stage six involves the renovation of 20 chiefdom homes and the funding of 15 micro-businesses (See annex for a comprehensive list of micro businesses). STAGE 7: January 2012 - Onward Replicate model throughout the developing world.

27

5.4 Barriers to Entry

We are actively addressing the following barriers to entry: Logistics: Because the project area is located overseas, problems in implementation can easily arise. In regard to this challenge, ESI is partnering with an NGO in Liberia called Tufeia Foundation that will implement the project and members of ESI will visit the village periodically to check on progress. Lack of Infrastructure: Because roads and bridges remain derelict, material transportation is difficult. ESI is purchasing the majority of its supplies from nearby African countries and delivering them to the project area via our own 4WD vehicle. Corruption: Although corruption is endemic in government institutions, ESI is working closely with the village council and district senators to limit corruption as we move forward with the implementation the project. Council members and senators have agreed to keep corrupt legislators at a distance. Start-up Costs Associated with the Project: In order to be effective, we must make initial investments in solar panels, vehicles, seeds, construction materials, and labor. However, once the project has begun, payback schemes and micro-finance systems will be affected, and villagers will have the ability to financially sustain themselves. Although the initial investment in The Gbehyi Chiefdom will be great, the eventual rise of micro-businesses and their associated revenues will eliminate the need for further infrastructural investment. Civil War: Because Liberias stability remains fragile, the possibility of civil war remains a reality. ESIs SVM model is adaptable to many other African countries, and in the event of a civil war, the project will be moved to Ghana.

28

Part 6 - BUDGET/FINANCE
6.1 Budget/Funding
ESI will apply for funds from grant making institutions to cover the cost of stages one and two. Funding for stages 3, 4, and 5 will be derived from microfinance partners such as EcoBank, Kiva.org, Grameen Bank, the Government of Liberia, and others. Funding will also come from organization such as USAID, SELF, NCIIA, UNDP, UNEP, UNICEF, the World Bank, IMF, and American Jewish World Service. In addition, ESI will accept land as payment for services. This land will be put into trust and will be used in coordination with an integrated Conservation Plan that ESI will develop with local government and community leaders.

Column1 STAGE 1: Village assessment travel expenses CAD Software Marketing General supplies Model design costs Voice and Data Legal fees Total Expenses Phase 1

Column2

$4,000.00 $600.00 $1,000.00 $300.00 $1,000.00 $200.00 $800.00 $7,900.00

$4,000.00 $3,500.00 $3,000.00 $2,500.00

STAGE 1: Village assessment travel expenses CAD Software Marketing

$2,000.00 $1,500.00 $1,000.00 $500.00 $0.00

General supplies Model design costs Voice and Data Legal fees

29

STAGE 2: Solar Cooker Solar Oven (x2) Materials to build composting toilet (x2) Solar panels and wiring (x2) Mudbrick Bamboo Cistern (x2) Voice and data GIS Equipment (lease) Training of 3 Liberians Travel Expenses 4x4 Vehicle (used) Shipping Stipend for Dr. McNeil TOTAL COST:

Column1 $177 $450 $1,500 $20,000 $1,000 $1,000 3,000 $200 $500 $4,000 $6,000 $9,000 $5,000 $10,000 $61,827

STAGE 2: Solar Cooker

70000 60000 50000 40000 30000

Solar Oven (x2) Materials to build composting toilet (x2) Solar panels and wiring (x2) Mudbrick Bamboo Cistern (x2) Voice and data GIS Equipment (lease)

20000 10000 0

Training of 3 Liberians Travel Expenses 4x4 Vehicle (used) Shipping Stipend for Dr. McNeil

Additional funding for phases 3-5 will be provided by grants and revenues from micro-businesses created. Please see Appendix III for ESIs five year financial forecast.
30

6.2 Return on Investment Potential

6.2.1 FINANCIAL IMPACT ESIs SVM model will provide autonomy and sustainability in rural areas. Upon completion of the SVM in the Gbehyi Chiefdom, the village council and related businesses can determine their levels of food security, their minimum consumption basket indexes, and storage rations. Excess food and grain can be exported for much needed revenue. This strategy will lead to sustainable growth and good management practices as well as a renewed stewardship for the environment. It is this growth that will lead to the alleviation of poverty and economic opportunities for even those living in very rural areas, but also applies to denser urban areas. 6.2.2 RETURN ON INVESTMENT ESI expects to renovate four additional houses in the first six months following initial renovations and construction of the Sustainable Village Service Center. With the addition of solar energy, swamp rice production, and edible plants, ESI expects to increase the income of each renovated house by 150% which will in turn provide increases in food security. Within its first six months, the SVSC will provide start-up costs for five micro-businesses such as aquaculture, water harvesting, waste management, and/or bamboo harvesting. Within the first 12 months ESI expects to renovate an additional 6 houses with sustainable technology and provide start-up costs for 7 micro-businesses. In the first 18 months ESI expects to renovate a total of 20 houses, create 15 micro-businesses, and install solar power in the clinic as well as the local school. 6.2.3 EXIT STRATEGY Once the SVM is designed and implemented, it will be exported to surrounding villages and cities. Businesses created by the villages or in association with the villages will continue to expand and grow. ESI will continue its consulting and training functions and will train an associate capable of overseeing and training SVSC staff.

31

Part 7 - ORGANIZATION OVERVIEW

7.1 Management
ESI is a non-profit registered 501(3)(C) corporation whose mission is to empower individuals by promoting sustainable development in their communities. ESI works with communities in Liberia to provide solutions to crippling urban and rural problems such as poor water quality, air quality, shelter, medical, energy, and waste management. In designing its projects, ESI has partnered with the Environment Foundation of Africa, ECHO, SJedi, the ECOSA Institute of Arizona, and our local implementing NGO, the Tufeia Foundation of Liberia.

7.2 The Team

President Peter Gbelia is a graduate student in the School of Sustainabilitys (SOS) MA program and a proud graduate of the US Air Force Academy, class of 1993. Currently, he is a C-17 Pilot with the 313th AS, AFRC, and also flies commercially as a 737 First Officer (FO) for Alaska Airlines. Peter is a LEED Accredited (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), and also HERS Certified (Home Energy Rater System). In addition to his accreditations, he founded the Empowerment Society International (ESI) with the goal of introducing Sustainable Development to the war torn regions of Africa. It is his true belief and goal that sustainability is essential to the growth and survival of these devastated regions. Project Manager Dee Dee Vicino earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications from Florida Atlantic University in 1988. She completed her Master of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts at Duke University in 2006 and was also awarded a Graduate Certificate from the Program for International Development Policy (PDIP) from the Sanford Institute of Public Policy at Duke University. Ms. Vicino has been involved with projects related to human trafficking of women and girls, child labor, and indigenous issues. She has also served on Boards of Directors for homeless and foster care organizations in Broward County and was a Guardian Ad Litem for six years. Her adult life has been dedicated to fighting for the rights of vulnerable populations and she is committed to expanding the scope of that fight to the international arena. Ms. Vicino was formerly the Vice President and Director of Love in Motion-Global (LIMG) and served as the
32

Project Manager for all development and education programs initiated by LIMG in Liberia. She resides in Fort Lauderdale Florida with her two children, Shelby and Hannah. Advisor Mark Henderson is Professor of Industrial Engineering at Arizona State University. He received an M.S. degree in biomechanical engineering and the Ph.D. in mechanical engineering (CAD) from Purdue University. Henderson was named a Presidential Young Investigator from 1985-90 and is co-author of the textbook, Computer-Integrated Design and Manufacturing. His major research includes 60 papers in computer-aided design and global engineering, and he serves on the editorial board of The Journal of Computer-Aided Design (CAD). He founded the ASU Global Engineering Design Team, a multi-disciplinary, multi-country design experience for undergraduates. He is co-director of the five-college Partnership for Research in Spatial Modeling (PRISM) and was one of the founding faculty of the Department of Engineering at Polytechnic campus. As part of a multi-university collaboration on student mobility, he began the Nomadic Academy in 2004, a summer study-abroad program in design and manufacturing with Penn State, University of Washington, University of Leeds (UK), IUT Bethune (France), Ecole Centrale Lyon (France) and University of Navarra (Spain). Henderson is also codirector of the InnovationSpace, a new approach to trans-disciplinary product development and entrepreneurship with the schools of engineering, business, design and graphic design. Henderson's interests extend across typical disciplinary boundaries and include global design teams, innovative product design, computer graphics, CAD and rapid prototyping. Local Implementer The Tufeia Foundation is a local non-governmental organization that was organized and accredited in 2004. Tufeia has since the been involved with youth Empowerment through, training seminars/workshops, basic skills training, health awareness for adolescence, child participation and protection After school program for school going children, computer literacy training programs and the provision of scholarship to limited number of school going children. It has been a difficult task matching the many pressing needs to the available limited resources. Thus, Tufeia has operated, over the years, under very strenuous circumstances.

33

Reverend Caleb Dormah received a MS in Math from the University of Liberia in 1985. Reverend Dormah also attended the Liberia Baptist Theological Seminary and holds a bachelor's degree in Religious Education. He has worked with children and youth for the past 21 years. In 2003, the United Methodist Church at the Liberia Annual to Conference asked Rev. Dormah to of the expand his ministry include displaced members

community in Ganta Nimba County. Community building is now the focus of his work.

34

7.4 Partner Organizations

35

7.5 Collaborating Organizations, Institutions, and Individuals

Tony Brown

36

Part 8 - Concluding Remarks

The Gebheyi Chiefdom was chosen as an implementation site due to the prevalence of poverty, disease, malnutrition and lack of basic services necessary for survival and sustainability. The Village Council asked ESI to develop a system to address the priority needs of the chiefdom which include renewable energy, clean water, clean air, sanitation, and food security. To address these needs, ESI renovate homes with solar power, composting toilets, and water cisterns. We will also incorporate edible landscaping systems, aquaponic fish farming, and solar cookers. These renovations will increase food security, provide clean air and water, provide medical storage and sanitary medical working conditions, and manage human and other forms of waste. In response to the Councils request, ESI developed a Sustainable Village Model in which appropriate green technology and local resources are used to improve livelihoods by meeting basic needs and providing the opportunity for micro-business growth and development. The model contains two pillars: (1) Sustainable Renovations of Existing Village Homes and (2) the construction of a Sustainable Village Service Center to oversee the implementation of new technologies and provide opportunities for micro-business. Because it was determined that solar power would meet the priority needs of the Gbehyi Chiefdom, the first phase of sustainable renovations of existing village homes will include the introduction of solar cookers to cook fish, chicken, meat, grains, and vegetables and to purify water, solar dryers to preserve food for future use and sale at market, and solar panels to provide electricity for the clinic, school, library, and the home of the Village Chief. The purpose of the Sustainable Village Service Center is to provide economic stability for the Gbehyi Chiefdom through the provision of consulting and funding services for the development of microbusinesses. These businesses include agribusiness, medicinal plant nurseries, edible food production, Internet Cafs, waste management, biofuel research, water collection and harvesting, and bamboo harvesting (see Appendix II). Moreover, the Sustainable Village Model supports Liberias Poverty Reduction Strategy by providing basic services as well as economic revitalization and infrastructure. ESI is currently in negotiations with SELF (Solar Electric and Lighting Foundation) to provide funding for the solar portion of the sustainable village concept. We have contacted the Sustainable Village Institute for technical and business development support for designing and creating the necessary products that will be required in the village model. We are also consulting with Solar Cookers International regarding solar cooking, water pasteurization, integrated cooking methods, micro-business opportunities, and sustainable solutions for rural communities. village operation. Finally, ASUs Global Resolve is assisting us with business development plans to create local business plans that will be paired with the sustainable

37

ESIs Sustainable Village Model will contribute to improved livelihoods and autonomous, selfsustaining villages. Those living in renovated homes and participating villages are expected to demonstrate increased food security, improved health (due to clean water and waste management), and access to solar-generated electricity. The creation of the SVSC will create micro-businesses that will increase family income thereby increasing consumption and improving the quality of life. As home renovations spread and micro-businesses are created, The Gbehyi Chiefdom will experience increased employment and income, improved health conditions, and decreased poverty.

38

ANNEXES
Appendix I: Maps

39

APPENDIX II: Potential Micro-businesses

Potential businesses include: Agribusiness We will focus on three types of agribusinesses: swamp rice production combined with fish farming and fish harvesting and urban farming. ESI is working with the Resource Centers for Urban Agriculture and Food Security (ruaf.org) to obtain the necessary technical support to conduct integrated urban farming within the sustainable village concept. ASU has many resources available to ESI including Professor Narciso Macias Mini-aquaponic fish farming system. Medicinal Plant Nursery Because medicinal plants are abundant in the region, we will encourage villagers to seed and harvest such plants and sell them at local and global markets. Edible Food Production Solar dryers will enable local business to pack and vacuum seal fresh meats and vegetables for storage and sale locally and at market. Internet Caf / Business Center This will allow individuals to obtain industry-related knowledge and increase educational opportunities as well as conduct business using computers and modern software. Waste Management Village businesses will collect and sort rubbish. This rubbish will be used for alternate energy production; electricity generation, and the production of handbags, garments, hay baskets, countertops and flooring. Biofuel Research Biofuel research businesses will work with Buchanan Renewable Energy, Inc. to develop appropriate biofuel technologies using biomass (from dead rubber trees and landscape waste products), algae, cellulosic ethanol, and jatropha tree (a small and previously unused plant) in mass amounts for biofuel. ASU has many resources available to ESI in this regard including a bio-fuel project conducted by Dr. Milt Sommerfeld at the Polytechnic Campus (http://asunews.asu.edu/20080125_algae).) Water Collection and Harvesting With the utilization of water management technology and individual homes as water collectors with cistern storage devices, water can be collected, stored, packed and sold, especially to communities and individuals without clean sources of water. UV disinfection will ensure the purity of collected and stored water.
40

Bamboo Harvesting ESI is currently seeking technical support from Bamboo World of Australia and the Bamboo Institute of China to develop a bamboo business model. Bamboo will be grown and harvested for construction purposes (housing and furniture). In addition, raw bamboo as well as finished products can be sold in local, national and global markets.

41

Appendix III: Balance Sheet

42

APPENDIX IV: Income Statement

43

APPENDIX V: Statement of Cash Flows

44

APPENDIX VI: Liberia and the United Nations Millennium Development Goals
The likelihood that Liberia will achieve the
Goal 1: Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger Population below PPP $1 per day (%): N/A Children under 5 who are moderately or severely underweight (%): 26.4 Population living below the national poverty line (%): N/A

MDGs by 2015 is rather weak, based on data compiled using data from the CWIQ, the LDHS, the Comprehensive Food Security and Nutrition Survey (CFSNS, 2006), the UN Statistical Database and other sources. Due to significant demographic changes and the unreliability of data compiled during the period of the conflict, the base year for trend projections is the year 2000 or the closest year possible. The first and most important Goal is to reduce

Goal 2: Achieve universal primary education Net enrolment ratio in primary education (% both sexes): 65.7 Percentage of pupils starting Grade 1 and reach Grade 5 (% both sexes): N/A

Goal 3: Promote gender equality and empower women Gender parity Index in primary level enrolment (ratio of girls to boys): 0.7 Literacy rates of 15-24 years old (% both sexes): 67.4 Seats held by women in national parliament (%): 12.5

Goal 4: Reduce child mortality Mortality rate of children under 5 years old (per 1,000 live births): 235 1-year-old children immunized against measles (%): 94

poverty by half by 2015. In Liberias case, this would imply reducing the poverty headcount index from 63.8 percent to about 32 percent over the next seven years. Unfortunately, this is not realistically possible it would require the fastest reduction in poverty ever recorded in the world. Nevertheless, Liberia can achieve a reduction in poverty that is at least consistent with the spirit of the MDGs. The original intent of the MDGs was to reduce the poverty rate by 50 percent over 25 years or roughly 2 percent per year. In the case of Liberia, a 2 percent annual reduction in a headcount index of 63.8 percent translates into a reduction of approximately 1.3 percentage points per year, or about 4 percentage points over the three years of the PRS. This would bring the poverty headcount

Goal 5: Improve maternal health Maternal mortality ratio (per 100,000 births): 760

Goal 6: Combat HIV/AIDS, malaria and other diseases People living with HIV,15-49 yrs old (%): 5.1 Prevalence of tuberculosis (per 100,000 people): 507

Goal 7: Ensure environmental sustainability Land area covered by forest (%): 32.7 Carbon dioxide emissions per capita (metric tons): 0.1401 Access to improved drinking water sources (% of total population): 61

Goal 8: Develop a global partnership for development Internet users (per 100 people): 0.0 Youth unemployment rate, ages 15-24, both sexes : N/A

Liberia 2004 MDG Report

index to about 60 percent by 2011. Liberia can, and should, achieve this rate of poverty reduction (or even faster) during the PRS period and beyond, based on the projected economic growth rate (over 10 percent annually) and the policy actions described in this strategy. So while Liberia will not achieve the MDG on poverty per se by 2015,
45

it is likely to achieve progress consistent with the MDGs. With respect to the the MDGs, the outlook is similar; Liberia is likely to achieve progress consistent with or better than the MDGs, but in most cases it will not actually achieve them by 2015. Despite the obstacles, according to UN trend analysis, Liberia is likely to achieve several sub-targets of the MDGs on time): Halving the proportion of people that suffer from hunger Eliminating gender disparities in primary and secondary education Reducing by two-thirds the under-five mortality rate Halting the spread of HIV and AIDS Halving the number of people without access to safe drinking water.

There are two key points that highlight this discussion. First, in the aftermath of the war, Liberias poverty statistics are grim. Almost two-thirds of Liberians live below the poverty line, and the share is even higher in rural areas. Indicators on health, education, water, food security and infrastructure are all poor. Women are particularly vulnerable to poverty, especially in rural areas, both because of the precarious nature of womens employment and because of more limited access to basic services like health, education, and infrastructure. Second, since the end of the conflict Liberia has made important progress in the effort to reduce poverty. Incomes are growing, school enrolments are increasing, health clinics are reopening, and infant mortality rates are falling. The outlook is positive for further progress during the PRS period. The key to reducing poverty in Liberia during the PRS period will lie in achieving rapid, inclusive, and sustainable growth. But rapid growth alone will be insufficient. All of the elements of Liberias reconstruction and development strategy play a role: consolidating peace and security, revitalizing the economy, strengthening governance and the rule of law, and rebuilding infrastructure and delivering basic services. The first MDG Report, produced in 2004, revealed that the system of data collection and compilation was very weak. Today, there is an autonomous statistics agency, the Liberia Institute for Statistics and Geo Information Services, which is putting in place a system for data collection, retrieval and dissemination. The agency is supported by UNDPs National Information Management Centre through a series of technical capacity-building activities. For example, iberiaInfo, an adaptation of the United Nations database system DevInfo, was recently launched by the government, contains key Liberia development indicators including updates on the MDGs. This wi l l f ac i li t at e m onit or i ng pr ogr e s s to war ds ac h ie v i ng th e M DG s .

Quick Fact
An estimated 824 million people suffer from chronic hunger in the developing world a state when they lack the required food to meet their daily needs.

Other related activities being implemented in 2007 include the Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) and the Core Welfare Indicator Questionnaire Survey (CWIQW). The outcome of these surveys will form a good basis for
46

preparing the second MDG Report for Liberia expected to be published later (2007). The findings will also inform the implementation of two millennium village projects which are being packaged to pilot integrated, MDG-based interventions at the local level. The projects developed through extensive dialogue and collaboration has strong s up p or t ac r os s s t ak eh o l der gr o u ps , i nc l ud i n g the h ig h es t l e ve ls of G o v er nm en t.
xxi

In an innovative fashion the UN has created County Support Teams (CSTs), bringing together all serving UN actors in each County, to ensure a coherent support to the Government at local levels, including on the advancement of MDGs. Regularly, the County authorities, supported by the CSTs, meet with all development actors in the counties to identify development gaps and needs, and discuss, plan and monitor development activities in the counties. In addition, the CST mechanism is supporting MDG training/awareness raising efforts to advance MDGs in the counties.

47

APPENDIX VII Sustainable Village Objectives and Goals

Electricity Solar power in school Solar power in homes Clean Water Harvesting Purification Health Medical fridge Clean water less disease Clean sanitation latrines Food Edible landscaping Crop irrigation Grain drying and storage

GOAL I: PROVIDE BASIC NECESSITIES

Micro-Business Create models Supply resources and technology

Training Train members in installation and maintenance of sustainable technology.

Running Business Micro-business Seminars

Marketable Structure Establish market for micro-business in Saclepea and Ganta

GOAL II: COMMUNITY SELF SUFFICIENCY

48

APPENDIX XIII Government and Chiefdom Organization Chart

49

APPENDIX VIX County Organization Chart

50

APPENDIX X - SWOT Analysis

SWOT analysis is a common technique used in business planning and strategic development. The Our SWOT analysis of the Gbeyhi Chiefdom provided information that has been helpful in matching the chiefdoms resources and capabilities to the environment in which it operates. As such, it is instrumental in strategy formulation and selection.

Gbehyi Chiefdom SWOT Analysis

51

End Notes

Unless otherwise noted, the data in this chapter is derived from the Nimba County Development Agenda (CDA), 2008-2012, retrieved from www.emansion.gov.lr/doc/NimbaCDA.pdf September, 2008.
ii

Epidemiological Surveillance Report 2006. Duayee Clinic. See Annex 1.

iii

Ganta Mayor Hon. Nohn Tensonnoh, Saclepea Mayor Marie Yileyon, Karnplay Mayor Samuel G.Z. Woleh Sr., Sanniquelle Mayor Mary Nya Gonlepa, and Tappita Mayor Sarah Mendoador. Worlea-Saowah Dunah, Rebecca Nohn Kidau, Jackson S. Fiindor Director Ben Turtur Donnie

iv

vi

Unless otherwise noted, the data in this chapter is derived from the Nimba County Development Agenda, 2008-2012, retrieved from www.emansion.gov.lr/doc/NimbaCDA.pdf September, 2008.
vii
viii ix

Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy. Breaking with the Past: From Conflict to Development. The Republic of Liberia. 2006. P 37. County Information Pack, Nimba County Liberia. 2007.

"Africa: Cleaner Cooking Fuels Cut Greenhouse Gases, Save Lives" Environment News Service (2006). Ibid

xi

UNEP United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on behalf of the Joint Secretariat UNECA, UNIDO, UNDP, ADB and NEPAD Secretariat "African Regional Implementation Review for the 14th Session of the Commission on Sustainable Development (Csd-14): Report on Atmosphere and Air Pollution " Fourth Meeting Committee on Sustainable Development: Managing Land-Based Resources for Sustainable Development, ed. UNEP United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on behalf of the Joint Secretariat UNECA, UNIDO, UNDP, ADB and NEPAD Secretariat (UNEP, 2005).
xii Dorsey and White. Liberia is Not Ready: A REPORT OF COUNTRY CONDITIONS IN LIBERIA AND REASONS THE UNITED STATES SHOULD NOT END TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS FOR LIBERIANS. A Report prepared for The Minnesota Advocates of Human Rights. August 2007. P.16 xiii

W.A.M. Hijnen, E.F. Beerendonk and G.J. Medema "Inactivation Credit of UV Radiation for Viruses, Bacteria and Protozoan (Oo)Cysts in Water: A Review " Water Research 40.1 (2006). Information gathered during ESIs fact finding mission May 2008. Cline, "Global Food Security: Challenges and Policies."

xiv

xv

K. J. Chua, 1 and S. K. Chou "Low-Cost Drying Methods for Developing Countries " Trends in Food Science & Technology 14, no. 12 (2003).
xvii

xvi

Ibid.

xviii

The Duayee clinic is presently equipped with a solar panel which powers a refrigerator used for the storage of vaccines. ESI intends to increase the village clinics capacity so that it can become a fully operation surgical center for the Chiefdom. Andrs Rodrguez-Pose and Sylvia Tijmstra. Local Economic Development as an alternative approach to economic development in SubSaharan Africa (A report for the World Bank). Paper adapted from that prepared for the World Bank-Netherlands Partnership Program Evaluating and Disseminating Experiences in Local Economic Development (LED) Local Economic Development as an alternative approach to economic development in Sub-Saharan Africa, 2005. Ibid This Section taken from the final PRS report, IMF. 2008.

xix

xx

xxi

Interim Poverty Reduction Strategy. Breaking with the Past: From Conflict to Development. The Republic of Liberia. 2006. P 37.

52