When I arrived in Libreville in mid-2021 to lead the work of the United Nations in Gabon as the Resident Coordinator, I could not have imagined the intensity, complexity and richness the assignment would bring. Leading the UN Country Team as the most senior UN official in the country and representative of the UN Secretary-General on development, during such a pivotal moment in the nation’s history, I have strived to ensure that we, as the UN, effectively support Gabon’s aspirations to deliver durable peace and sustainable prosperity for its people.
The following remarks have been delivered by the United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, in her capacity as Chair of the UN Sustainable Development Group during the ECOSOC Segment on Operational Activities for Development.
e United Nations will release a new report detailing the significant advancements in the effectiveness and efficiency of the revitalised Resident Coordinator (RC) system in supporting countries to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The Spotlight Initiative—a global UN partnership to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls—released its 2025 Management Response to the final evaluation conducted by the UNSDG Evaluation Office.
The UN has launched a Debris Taskforce in Lebanon to manage the aftermath of the 2024 conflict through a sustainable, rights-based approach. Coordinating with the government and local partners, the initiative prioritizes safe debris removal, recycling, and environmental protection. It also promotes job creation, public health, and cultural preservation. This effort aims to turn devastation into an opportunity for long-term, resilient recovery.
UNFPA’s project to strengthen Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (EmONC) in Timor-Leste is saving lives, including Oliviana’s. Trapped by floods during labor, she reached safety thanks to trained midwives equipped through the UNFPA-supported programme. Their swift, skilled response ensured a safe delivery for both mother and baby.
Maria Adams, a fashion entrepreneur in Accra, Ghana, faces challenges common to many women led MSMEs such as limited digital skills, funding, and market access. A new UN-backed programme aims to change that by empowering 25,000 such businesses with digital tools and financial support.
Caribbean nations face climate threats and economic drain from fuel imports. Electric mobility offers dual benefits: reducing dependence on imported oil while enabling vehicle-to-grid integration that supports renewable energy adoption.
