Africa

Head of UNDP Africa on Rio+20

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 04:00:00 GMT

Rio+20 represents an enormous opportunity for the world and for Africa to set a new course for human kind.

Women's Access to Justice in Rural Africa

Tue, 06 Mar 2012 05:00:00 GMT

Director of UNDP Africa at the 56th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women, 6th of March 2012.

UN Secretary-General To Make First State Visit To Zambia

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Secretary-General will visit Zambia, where he will meet with His Excellency President Michael Sata and other senior officials.

UN development chief: conflict often driven by poverty

Sat, 18 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

On the last day of her visit to Niger, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark traveled to the ancient city of Agadez where armed rebellions in the 1990s led to a period marked by violence and instability, resulting in increased poverty and vulnerability for the population.

Breaking the food crisis cycle in Africa's Sahel

Tue, 14 Feb 2012 05:00:00 GMT

A food crisis is looming in the West of the Sahel, a semi-arid belt stretching from Africa's Atlantic coast to the Red Sea.

Kenya-based firm to provide 100,000 small farmers with micro-loans

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Juhudi Kilimo, a Kenya-based investment firm, will provide some 100,000 smallholder rural farmers in Kenyamore than half of them womenwith access to micro-loans and basic financial training.

African forum calls for gender equality

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The head of UNDP Africa said the region requires dedicated leadership in order to achieve gender equality as well as political commitment from all stakeholders.

Fighting climate change and inequalities key to progress in Africa

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Steady advances in human development in sub-Saharan Africa could stall and even reverse unless bold steps are taken to reduce environmental risks and inequalities in the region and around the world, says the 2011 Human Development Report, released today by UNDP.

Director of UNDP Africa on gender and elections

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 04:00:00 GMT

There is no denying that elections are the hallmark of democratization throughout the world including in Africa. However, elections face a number of challenges.

Africa: Green growth must go hand in hand with poverty reduction

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Sustainable economies offer multiple benefits but will require important adjustments from African countries, said Tegegnework Gettu, the head of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Africa.

Nigeria holds memorial for bomb victims

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 04:00:00 GMT

On Thursday, September 15, the United Nations held a memorial service in honor of the victims of the 26 August bomb attack on the UN House in Abuja, Nigeria.

The Epicentre of a Crisis

Tue, 09 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Almost two million Somalis have left their homes in search of food and tens of thousands have died from hunger. And the numbers continue to rise.

Reflections on Independence Day in South Sudan

Mon, 08 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

It seems a little strange to fall asleep in one country and wake up the next day in a completely new one, all without having moved a single step.

UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Antonio Banderas spotlights Horn of Africa food crisis

Fri, 05 Aug 2011 04:00:00 GMT

UN calls for a further US$1.4 billion to assist Horn of Africa

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations today appealed for a further $1.4 billion dollars to provide life-saving assistance to more than 12 million people across the Horn of Africa.

Africa should embrace new economic giants and boost social inclusion

Mon, 06 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

African countries should develop closer cross-border ties in dealing with traditional and emerging partners so they can boost sustainable and inclusive growth, according to the African Economic Outlook 2011, launched today.

Experiences of other countries can guide democracy in the Arab region

Sun, 05 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

HE Essam Sharaf, Prime Minister of Egypt and UNDP Administrator, Helen Clark , inaugurated today the "International Forum on Pathways of Democratic Transitions: International Experiences, Lessons Learnt and the Road Ahead."

Low-income countries empowered to navigate climate finance maze

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 04:00:00 GMT

A new guidebook, "Catalysing Climate Finance", advises decision makers in developing countries how to tap into growing environmental finance markets.

Water access boosts crop production and incomes in Sudan's rural east

Mon, 23 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

More than 1,000 farmers living in northeast Sudan now have increased harvests and income due to water irrigation equipment provided through an initiative managed by UNDP.

UN launches global partnership to put indigenous rights into action

Fri, 20 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Four United Nations agencies today launched the first global initiative to put into action the rights enshrined in an international declaration to protect the more than 370 million indigenous peoples who live in some 90 countries around the world.

Human Development Indicators now on Google's Data Explorer

Tue, 17 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Vital international development information is now available on Google via its Public Data Explorer - providing access to key data from 21 years worth of research, including the Human Development Index.

Google expands global access to Human Development Indicators

Tue, 17 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

In a move to provide greater global access to key human development indicators for all countries, Google's innovative Public Data Explorer will now feature the latest Human Development Index (HDI) figures and direct links to the extensive Human Development Report database of international development statistics.

Water access in Sudan boosts development, helps reduce tensions

Fri, 13 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

More than 10,000 people in the South Kordofan state of Sudan now have improved access to clean water, following completion of a reservoir.

UN recommits to aid, favourable market access for LDCs

Fri, 13 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

A ten-year international action plan for 48 economically vulnerable nations was announced today by Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoğlu of Turkey on the closing day of a UN conference in Istanbul.

Norwegian Crown Prince continues to speak out for world's poor

Thu, 12 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP announced today that Norway's Crown Prince Haakon is to continue as a Goodwill Ambassador, advocating globally on behalf of poor, marginalized and vulnerable communities around the world.

Tax shake-up could give poor countries head start on anti-poverty track

Wed, 11 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Reforming how countries manage customs and tax revenues and strengthening anti-corruption and oversight measures could help reduce illicit funds flows, amounting to billions of dollars per year, from least developed countries (LDCs)

Africa: Stronger cross-border ties key to social and economic progress

Tue, 10 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Integrated regional investments in roads and power, coupled with pro-poor policy, could lead to an accumulated 10 percent increase in the continent's standard of living between 2012 and 2020, says a new report released today at the Fourth UN Conference on the Least Developed Countries (LDCs) in Istanbul, Turkey.

The Renewable Future

Tue, 10 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

NAIROBI: Renewable energy triggers sharply polarized views. For some, it is a costly white elephant; for others, it is humanity's savior, promising to emancipate us (and our environment) from the "folly" of fossil fuels. So a hardheaded, credible, and, above all, impartial analysis, which would provide a much-needed dose of pragmatism and realism to the debate, is long overdue.

Pro-poor initiative to boost job creation in Africa

Thu, 05 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

A new initiative to boost job creation through pro-poor business development that engages low-income people in Africa as customers, employees, producers or entrepreneurs was launched today.

5.2m Zambians gear up to vote

Wed, 04 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

On her first visit to Zambia, UNDP Associate Administrator called on 5.2 million registered voters to ensure they turn out on the day of the country's upcoming general elections.

Election experts gather to help Arab states conduct polls

Mon, 02 May 2011 04:00:00 GMT

More than 50 experts from Arab states and from India, Mexico and South Africa gathered in Cairo to help conduct fair and transparent elections in the North African and Middle Eastern countries currently undergoing historic change.

US 160 million needed for aid in Côte d'Ivoire

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Humanitarian agencies appealed today for US$160 million to scale up aid over the next nine months in Côte d'Ivoire as the humanitarian crisis has affected thousands of households throughout the country.

UN seeks US 2.3 million to assist victims of floods in Namibia

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Country Team in Namibia urgently seeks US$2.3 million to support national efforts to assist around 60,000 people who have been displaced by record flooding in the north of the country.

Cameroon community to return home after lake explosion

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Nearly 1,700 people died in 1986 when Cameroon's Lake Nyos suddenly released deadly levels of carbon dioxide into the air, following a build-up of the gas in the lake. Another 10,000 people were uprooted and 3,000 heads of livestock were also lost.

Security returning to DR Congo

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Security is slowly returning for communities affected by large-scale violence and killings in northeast Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Multi-use engines drive empowerment in 1,000 Mali villages

Thu, 07 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Each night, Koumantou village in southern Mali would to fall into near total darkness. The only light was cast from the restaurant of local businesswoman Kadia Kone.

Landmine clearance saves lives, protects livelihoods in 40 countries

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Achievements have been made but landmines and explosive remnants of war continue to kill or injure thousands of people a year, UN officials say in observance of the International Day for Mine Awareness and Assistance in Mine Action.

UNDP deeply saddened by plane crash deaths in DRC

Mon, 04 Apr 2011 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP personnel working in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) were among those killed in a plane crash in Kinshasa on Monday.

Liberia: 1.7 million sign up to vote with UNDP support

Thu, 31 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP is among national and international agencies that laid the groundwork for the 1.7 million Liberians, almost half of them women, who last month completed registration to vote in upcoming elections.

Creative industries are more resilient to economic crisis

Wed, 30 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Creative industries have shown more resilience to the impact of the global economic crisis than traditional manufacturing industries, according to the Creative Economy Report 2010 launched at the United Nations.

Libéria : les besoins des réfugiés ivoiriens dépassent les ressources

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Au vu du flux grandissant de réfugiés ivoiriens qui traversent le Libéria ces dernières semaines, à la suite de la crise politique qui secoue la Côte d'Ivoire depuis le mois de novembre passé, les agences des Nations Unies mettent en avant la nécessité de renforcer la fourniture en abris d'urgence.

UNDP helps boost Brazil-Africa partnerships

Fri, 25 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Brazil's experience in lifting millions of people out of poverty and in spurring agricultural and energy innovations is crucial to promoting development in Africa, according to regional directors of UNDP.

Rain Water Harvesting Improves Lives of Small Farmers

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

"If there's a bad year, we can stay up to 20 days without rain. The young crops die, that's the problem over here", says Rabiet E. Mkumbwa, 60, in front of his home in from Mwembe village in Tanzania's Kilimanjaro region.

Landmines continue to kill or maim more than 4,000 people yearly

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Mine action initiatives in 29 countries, territories or peacekeeping missions will cost $498 million in 2011, according to the 14th edition of the annual Portfolio of Mine Action Projects, released today by the UN in Geneva.

Barclays to assist 60,000 people in Africa anti-poverty effort

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 04:00:00 GMT

Around 60,000 people in Kenya, Ghana, Tanzania and Uganda will soon have access to financial services through Barclays' commitment to the Business Call to Action (BCtA) - a global initiative aimed at supporting the private sector's efforts to fight poverty.

International Women's Day

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

International Women's Day on March 8, 2011, is an opportunity to remind the world of women's economic, political and social achievements.

Helen Clark: International Women's Day

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

On this 100th International Women's Day, we can dream of how the world can look if women have equal rights and opportunities to reach their full potential.

The 100th International Women's Day

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

This year, International Women's Day highlights the participation of women and girls in education, training, science and technology. It also focuses our attention on the promotion of women's equal access to full employment and decent work.

Burundi : Reprendre une vie normale après la guerre

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Un projet de solidarité communautaire au Burundi vise à faciliter la réintégration socio-économique des ex-combattantes.

Benin: Empowering women to protect the coastal lagoon

Tue, 01 Mar 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Until three years ago, Kindozandji Adovè, a mother of three daughters, had to decide which of her girls she would send to school, as her income from selling oysters was not enough to pay school fees for all of them. Now, thanks to UNDP's Small Grants Programme, she makes enough money to send all her girls to school, and have some left over.

More than 5,000 Ivorian refugees cross into Liberia in twenty-four hours

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

More than 5,000 Ivorian refugees arrived in Liberia's border villages on Thursday,24th February, as a result of renewed fighting in western Cote d'Ivoire this week. Over the past 24 hours alone, hundreds of people have been crossing over into eastern Liberia. UNHCR has dispatched non-food items including sleeping mats, mosquito nets and blankets to various locations.

Indian green company creates 25,000 jobs, boosts clean energy in Ghana

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Abellon CleanEnergy Ltd., a sustainable energy company based in India, today pledged to create 25,000 jobs over the next five years, and produce clean, affordable energy that could power 100,000 homes in Ghana.

UNDP Administrator praises Southern Sudan's credible referendum process

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Following today's announcement of the southern Sudan referendum results, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark congratulated the Southern Sudanese people on the peaceful and transparent referendum process.

Southern Sudanese vote for independence

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

According to the final results announced today by the Southern Sudan Referendum Commission, 98.3 percent of the electorate has chosen independence.

UNDP Joins Global Fund in Announcing Enhanced Financial Safeguards

Fri, 04 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) today announced new measures aimed at strengthening even more of its safeguards against fraud and corruption in the global fight against pandemic diseases in the developing world.

Kenya: Wetlands conservation project raises living standards

Wed, 02 Feb 2011 05:00:00 GMT

In one of Kenya's most polluted river basins, a conservation and livelihood improvement project coordinated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has helped improve health and living standards of local communities.

UNDP supports Niger elections

Fri, 28 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Niger went to the polls on 31 January to choose a new president and parliament, completing a process of transition from military to civilian rule initiated in February 2010.

Burkina Faso: women help stop the spread of HIV and AIDS

Wed, 26 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Since January 2009, 175 women's groups have been involved in 1,345 educational sessions, reaching some 150,680 people, more than half of whom are women.

Early Sudan returns heavily for secession; government prepares to lead

Fri, 21 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Nearly 99 percent of South Sudanese have voted for secession in a closely-watched referendum, according to preliminary returns released Friday, 21 January. The referendum is part of a peace deal signed in 2005 which ended 20 years of civil war.

One Day on Earth launches archive of videos captured on 10.10.10

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

One Day on Earth secured contributions from every country in the world due in large part to its partnership with UNDP, which helped increase access and participation in 100 countries impacted by poverty and scarce media access.

Aid agencies launch $32.7 million appeal for Côte d'Ivoire

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

West African humanitarian agencies today launched a US$ 32.7 million-emergency plan in order to be prepared for humanitarian needs that could arise due to Côte d'Ivoire's political crisis.

Education key as voters flood polls in Sudan

Tue, 11 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Voters in Southern Sudan flooded polling stations this week to decide whether the south of the country becomes independent from the north. The referendum is part of a peace deal signed in 2005 which ended 20 years of civil war.

Panel arrives to monitor voting in Southern Sudan referendum

Thu, 06 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Members of the United Nations Secretary-General's Panel tasked with monitoring the upcoming referenda on self-determination in Sudan have arrived in Khartoum to begin a critical visit on the eve of voting in the referendum on the future of Southern Sudan.

Amidst efforts to solve Ivorian political deadlock, UN agencies prepare aid

Tue, 04 Jan 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Several UN bodies have stepped up their activities dealing with the effects of the crisis on the people of Côte d'Ivoire.

Côte d'Ivoire: UN envoy meets West African Leaders

Tue, 28 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

A large crowd today attacked a three-vehicle convoy of the United Nations peacekeeping force in Côte d'Ivoire in the commercial capital of Abidjan, slashing one soldier with a machete and setting one of the vehicles on fire.

UN delivers ballots for historic Southern Sudan referendum

Thu, 23 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Today at the Juba airport, the UN delivered ballots for more than 4 million voters to the Southern Sudan Referendum Bureau. The ballots will be used on 9 January 2011, in which Southern citizens will choose whether to remain united with the North or to secede and form their own independent country.

Women, peace and security in Africa

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Eleven African governments have pledged to ensure an effective regional mechanism to address sexual violence against women and children in a recent, UNDP-sponsored workshop.

UN agency boosts response readiness for Côte d'Ivoire refugees

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The United Nations refugee agency said today it is boosting its contingency plans for Côte d'Ivoire in light of the tense political standoff that has already resulted in more than 6,000 people fleeing the country into two neighbouring West African States.

Ghana peace architecture to get boost from lawmakers

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Lawmakers in Ghana are this month due to consider backing an independent peace-building body that has helped to solve disputes between some of the country's many distinct ethnic and tribal groups and that could be replicated in other countries.

Representatives of youth employment programme meet in Dakar

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Representatives of UNDP's Regional programme for Social Cohesion and Youth Employment convened in Dakar, Senegal earlier this month.

Ethiopia: Small Loan Project "Lights Up" A Town

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

A United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) project providing start-up costs for community-level income creation in Ethiopia has helped up to 5,000 people, mostly from poor and vulnerable groups, to gain new skills and find work during the last year.

MasterCard and UNCDF Increase access to financial services in Sub-Saharan Africa

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The MasterCard Foundation and the UN Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) today announced YouthStart, an initiative to increase access to financial services for 200,000 low-income youth in Sub-Saharan Africa. YouthStart was catalyzed by a four year, $12 million contribution from The MasterCard Foundation.

UN agencies laud agreement on REDD+ reached in Cancun

Sat, 11 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

UN agencies behind the UN-REDD Programme (FAO, UNDP and UNEP) call the REDD+ agreement a positive step forward in the conservation and sustainable management of the world's forests.

Small island states get boost for moving into renewable energy

Wed, 08 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Some of the smallest and most climate-vulnerable island nations in the world will benefit from a new initiative aimed at increasing these countries' access to renewable sources of energy.

UNDP, peacekeepers training Liberian youths

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP and several battalions of peacekeepers attached to the UN Mission in Liberia have teamed up to provide youth in four Counties with skills training.

International Volunteer Day: Thousands join online film festival

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Close to 12,000 people contributed to the success of an online film festival to celebrate International Volunteer Day over the weekend.

35,000 join Haile Gebrselassie in Great Ethiopian Run to end poverty

Thu, 02 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Thousands took to the streets in Addis Ababa on 21 November to participate in the Great Ethiopian Run, the biggest road race on the African continent.

In Southern Sudan, successes reported in HIV-AIDS fight

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

A major effort by UNDP to combat an HIV/AIDS epidemic has achieved successes in an area impoverished by more than 20 years of conflict.

United Nations Volunteers launch global online film festival

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 05:00:00 GMT

In the lead-up to International Volunteer Day (5 December), the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) programme invites the world to an online film festival.

New climate finance tool for developing countries

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Climate finance issues are high on the agenda in Cancun. The Climate Finance Options (CFO) web platform, envisioned as the go-to site for information on climate finance will help developing countries in their efforts to identify critical sources of funding to combat climate change.

Tackling the costs of gender inequality to Africa's development

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has teamed up with the African Institute for Economic Development to launch a major programme aimed at boosting policies that deliver equally to low-income women and men in countries across Africa.

South-South Expo Concludes with Advances for Homegrown Development

Fri, 26 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The Third Annual Global South-South Development Expo (GSSD Expo) concluded Friday at International Labour Organization (ILO) headquarters in Geneva having spotlighted and showcased over 100 partnerships and solutions to poverty challenges that have been developed by developing countries themselves.

Violence against women: Breaking the silence

Thu, 25 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

This year marks the 10th anniversary of Security Council resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. The resolution reaffirmed the crucial role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peace negotiations, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, humanitarian response and post-conflict reconstruction.

South-South expo showcasing successful development solutions

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The Third Annual Global South-South Development Expo (GSSD Expo) opened today in Geneva, with more than 600 delegates from 150 countries. The Expo was designed to spotlight, showcase and promote innovative solutions to poverty challenges that have been developed by developing countries themselves.

20 African countries to accelerate climate adaptation

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Member countries of Africa Adaptation Programme prepare for effects of a 2-degree Celsius increase in global temperatures in world's poorest and most climate-vulnerable region.

Le Burkina Faso poursuit sa lutte contre la pauvreté

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Le gouvernement du Burkina Faso a décidé de poursuivre l'expérience entamée depuis 2000 avec le Programme national plateformes multifonctionnelles supporté par le PNUD.

UNDP, China to boost their partnership on Africa

Tue, 09 Nov 2010 05:00:00 GMT

The Africa-China Poverty Reduction and Development Conference has led to the signature of two letters of agreement which will further training and technical cooperation in the area of agriculture in Africa.

Malaysia: UN peacekeepers to get new skills

Fri, 05 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The Government of Malaysia and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a joint effort to equip African and Asian UN peacekeepers with new skills to protect those most vulnerable in conflicts around the world.

2010 Human Development Report analyses long-term development trends

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Most developing countries made dramatic yet often underestimated progress in health, education and basic living standards in recent decades, reveals a detailed new analysis of long-term Human Development Index trends in the 2010 Human Development Report.

UNDP report: "People are healthier, wealthier and better educated"

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Looking back at 40 years of human progress in 135 countries, the 2010 Human Development Report shows that average life expectancy rose from 59 to 70 years, primary school enrolment grew from 55 to 70 percent, and per capita income doubled to more than US$10,000.

UNEP unveils SEED award winners

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The SEED Awards recognise inspiring social and environmental entrepreneurs whose businesses can help meet sustainable development challenges. By helping entrepreneurs to scale-up their activities, the SEED Initiative, which is hosted by UNEP, aims to boost local economies and tackle poverty, while promoting the sustainable use of resources and ecosystems.

Supporting Tanzania's election process

Tue, 02 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP successfully helped to register up to 20 million Tanzanians for the elections, in partnership with the two election managment bodies in Tanzania.

African countries, emerging economies explore development breakthrough

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Delegates from African countries, China and other emerging economies - including Vietnam - convene to explore some of the most successful development experiences in the South and examine how to improve policies that sustain high growth and reduce poverty.

Une vedette du football africain se mobilise pour des élections régulières

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Le grand joueur de football Didier Drogba a lancé aujourd'hui une campagne de sensibilisation destinée à attirer l'attention sur la manière dont des élections démocratiques et transparentes dans le monde aident certains des pays les plus pauvres de la planète à sortir de la pauvreté.

Governments give renewed focus to Earth's protected areas

Fri, 22 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Governments from around the world currently meeting at a United Nations biodiversity conference in Nagoya, Japan, are to reaffirm their support for an ambitious plan of protection for areas that make vital contributions to community life and livelihoods.

Tanzania seeks long-term solutions to forest loss and energy crisis

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The country is facing a critical energy crisis, which UNDP is addressing through a pilot project to reduce firewood use by 50 percent.

Reconstruction communautaire au Burundi

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Avec le soutien du PNUD, le gouvernement mène un programme de reconstruction communautaire pour inciter les différents groupes sociaux affectés par le conflit (vulnérables, rapatriés et ex-combattants) à uvrer ensemble sur des projets d'intérêt commun.

From Poverty to Decent Work: Bridging the Gap

Wed, 13 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The human development approach asserts that development is about far more than just increasing GDP per capita. Fundamentally, development must also be about improving people's ability to shape their own lives.

UNDP appoints Brazilian football star as Goodwill Ambassador

Mon, 11 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP appointed the world's top-ranked women's football player and Brazilian national, Marta Vieira da Silva as a Goodwill Ambassador, to advocate for women's empowerment as a means to fight poverty.

On 10.10.10, The United Nations joins "One Day on Earth"

Sun, 10 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Today, thousands of filmmakers from over 190 countries are participating in the "One Day on Earth" project, which aims to capture an unprecedented global video snapshot of a single 24-hour period. Participants, ranging from teenagers with cell phones to Academy-Award nominated documentarians using the latest HD cameras, are filming the world from their own perspective.

"One Day on Earth" to capture people's stories across the globe

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP has partnered with "One Day on Earth" to help the project reach participants in 100 countries with low bandwidth, making it a truly global initiative.

Helen Clark: Remarks at Inaugural meeting of HIV Global Commission

Wed, 06 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Burkina Faso : L'accès à l'eau potable s'est considérablement amélioré

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Pays enclavé et fortement soumis aux aléas climatiques, le Burkina Faso a accompli des progrès remarquables au niveau de l'accès à l'eau potable.

Strategic approach to foster growth in the world's poorest countries

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The world's poorest countries can foster greater growth by tapping into significant yet unexploited potential across their territories. But these countries need to have a more strategic approach to local development if they are to effectively address their development challenges.

International community tackles energy poverty for MDGs

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has called on countries to work together to provide reliable sources of energy to the one fifth of the world's population currently beyond the reach of the electricity grid.

Benin on track to achieve universal primary education

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Ten years since the adoption of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), Benin is today on track to ensure primary education for all by 2015, provided current efforts are maintained.

UNDP puts forward new approach to speed up progress on MDGs

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP presented the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) Acceleration Framework, an innovative approach designed to help countries identify and resolve barriers to eradicating extreme poverty, and achieving sustainable development.

Four companies commit to fight poverty in Africa and Asia

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

More than 200,000 people in Africa and Asia will have access to improved health care and water, and increased access to jobs, through commitments made by Pfizer, Sproxil, Vodafone and WaterHealth International to the Business Call to Action initiative.

Cape Verde on track to end poverty and meet most MDGs

Tue, 21 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Cape Verde's poverty rates have fallen substantially over time, and the island-nation remains on track to meet most of the MDG's, particular those related to poverty eradication, health, education and gender.

Eritrea reducing maternal death, on track to achieve the MDGs

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Eritrea is one of the four African countries said to be on course to achieve Millennium Development Goals five on Maternal Health.

Malawi on the road to fighting poverty

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

A village generally characterized with high poverty levels, malnourished children, and no access to clean water has changed in the last five years since the introduction of a Millennium Villages Project.

UN reports extra push needed to meet global anti-poverty goals

Thu, 16 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations warns today that shortfalls in meeting agreed actions on combating poverty and raising living standards are jeopardizing achievement of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

UNDP salutes anti-poverty heroes in annual photo contest

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Nearly 1,400 contestants submitted more than 3,000 photos in both the professional and amateur categories. Three top prizes were awarded in each of MDGs categories and the public voted online for a People's Choice award.

Mitsui to support solar powered irrigation in Mozambique

Tue, 14 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Mitsui and UNDP have announced that they will build a solar-powered irrigation system in the Millennium Village of Chibuto, in Gaza Province of Southern Mozambique.

Citizens' voices against poverty will crescendo in noises heard around the world

Thu, 09 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

People across the globe will turn up the volume on their call for heads of state gathering at the United Nations on September 20-22 to demonstrate leadership in order to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Empowering women through literacy empowers us all

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Through an award winning literacy programme in Cape Verde women get access to the schooling they missed as children.

New UN website gives access to real-time financial data

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

For the first time in UN history, UNDP provides real-time financial information to the public on donor contributions received, amounts transferred to participating organizations, and certified annual expenditure reports.

Celebrities join push for action on the Millennium Development Goals

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Goodwill Ambassadors Antonio Banderas, Maria Sharapova, Didier Drogba, Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane will be using social media networks to support the United Nations' push for action against extreme poverty, hunger and disease.

Journée mondiale de l'aide humanitaire: les secours se poursuivent au Pakistan

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Alors que les institutions des Nations Unies et les Organisations non gouvernementales (ONG) célèbrent en ce jour la Journée mondiale de l'aide humanitaire, qui vient rappeler l'importance du travail visant à sauver des vies humaines autour du monde, les efforts se poursuivent au Pakistan.

Sony helps Africa combat the spread of AIDS during 2010 FIFA World Cup

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The "Public Viewing in Africa" partnership project between Sony Corporation, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) brought 26 World Cup matches live to 24,000 people living in Cameroon and Ghana.

Kenyans vote for new constitution with UN support

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Kenyans today had two reasons to celebrate - a peaceful referendum and a new constitution, endorsed by 67 percent of the voters.

Film makers add new dimension on Day of World's Indigenous People

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The year after cinema blockbuster Avatar put the clash between minerals exploration and environmentally conscious lifestyle into three dimensions, the work of film makers from indigenous communities around the world will be highlighted on the International Day of the World's Indigenous People.

Tanzania: enrolling disabled children in primary schools

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Tanzania will soon carry out a population census for persons with disabilities, helping to further progress on areas like primary school enrolment.

Landmark convention on cluster munitions enters into force

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

A historic achievement in disarmament, the Convention on Cluster Munitions, will enter into force on 1 August 2010. The treaty provides a legal framework for ending cluster munitions' unacceptable harm to civilians, many of whom live in developing countries.

Promoting young IT entrepreneurs in Ghana

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

With UNDP's support, a business development center has been lifting start-up companies onto Ghana's national IT market.

L'accès à l'eau transforme l'existence des villageois au Sénégal

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

L'installation d'un forage qui permettra le raccordement de 31 villages au Nord du Sénégal améliore l'accès à l'eau potable et permet d'assainir les principaux lieux publics en communauté rurale.

Tanzania: UNDP project saves mountain forests for future generations

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP has successfully finalized a seven-year biodiversity project that saved thousands of hectares of fragile forestland on a mountain range in northeast Tanzania.

UNDP Nigeria calculates its 2009 carbon footprint

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP in Nigeria has just concluded the calculation of its carbon footprint for the 2009 operational year.

UNDP Announces 2010 Red Ribbon Award Winners

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Twenty-five community-based organisations representing 17 countries across the globe have won the 2010 Red Ribbon Award.

UNDP Administrator meets with Ghana's president, senior officials

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Helen Clark highlighted Ghana's progress towards the MDGs, and discussed the prospects for Ghana's continued growth and development and the nation's expected graduation to middle-income country status.

UNDP promotes solar energy use in Botswana

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP and the Global Environment Facility have partnered with the Government and local communities to bring an eco-friendly and creative solution to a problem that causes damage to both the environment and health.

Promoting youth employment in Sub-Saharan Africa

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Since 2009 the UNDP Regional Programme for Social Cohesion and Youth Employment, a partnership that is bringing together UNDP, ILO, UNESCO and UNIDO, has been supporting 12 Sub-Saharan countries to design macro-economic policies that promote youth employment and facilitate the development of skills among the younger generations.

Women's Empowerment in Africa: Access to Land, Credit, and Markets

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Administrator Helen Clark spoke at the Ministerial Breakfast on Economic Opportunities for the Empowerment of Women in Africa and the Least Developed Countries: Access to Land, Credit, and Markets

A development breakthrough for Africa

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Just sixty days before the UN Millennium Development Goals (MDG) Summit, UNDP's Regional Bureau for Africa will host its annual Regional Management Team Meeting in Ghana (14-17 July), examining the region's economic and development gains over the past decade and looking into ways of achieving a development breakthrough for Africa.

Guinée: Dernière ligne droite avant les présidentielles

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

L'élection présidentielle guinéenne aura lieu le 27 juin. Cette dernière est censée mettre fin à la période de transition amorcée lors des Accords de Ouagadougou, marquant le retour à l'ordre constitutionnel dans le pays.

Millennium Development Goals Report 2010 was launched in New York

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The world continues to make advances towards the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), despite the global economic downturn, but the rate of improvement remains too slow and countries must step up their efforts if the MDGs are to be achieved by their target date of 2015, a new United Nations report says.

Mozambique and 123 UN Member States discuss small arms control

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Small arms and light weapons control in the SADC region requires a reinforcement of State structures.

Displaced women in Somaliland put their life back on track with 75US$

Tue, 15 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP and the Training Research Group, a local NGO in Somaliland, have launched a project to improve the livelihoods of internally displaced women, with the support of the Government of Norway.

Getting kids off the street and into hope seen as important part of Africa's development

Sat, 12 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

HSH Prince Albert II of Monaco visited today a sports community center in the municipality of Gugulethu in Cape Town, South Africa. The center, which was launched in 2009, resulted from a partnership between the Principality of Monaco, UNDP, the World Alliance of Cities against Poverty network and the City of Cape Town.

Uganda: UNDP launches Economics and Gender curriculum

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Uganda's Makerere University in conjunction with UNDP today launched a new Master of Arts focusing on economics and gender, the first of its kind in an African University.

UNDP and Sony bring the 2010 FIFA World Cup to Cameroon's Poor

Mon, 07 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

In the lead up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup, Official FIFA Partner, Sony Corporation, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have launched a campaign to bolster efforts to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) a set of eight internationally-agreed goals designed to reduce poverty, hunger, disease, and maternal and child deaths by 2015.

Ban Ki-moon on World Environment Day

Fri, 04 Jun 2010 04:00:00 GMT

"Biodiversity, the incredible variety of life on Earth that sustains us, is in peril. Species are becoming extinct at the fastest rate ever recorded."

UNDP launches "We Can End Poverty" photo contest

Fri, 14 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The contest, titled "Picture This: We Can End Poverty", seeks to show the inspirational work that is being done in many countries to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), eight goals agreed on by world leaders to halve extreme poverty by 2015.

African musicians join the UN in a song to end poverty by 2015

Fri, 14 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

"8 Goals for Africa", a campaign song by eight of Africa's best known musicians, calls for commitment to achieve the Millennium Development Goals - a set of eight internationally-agreed goals designed to reduce poverty, hunger, disease, and maternal and child deaths by 2015.

UN Development Chief in South Africa to highlight the MDGs

Wed, 12 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The UNDP Administrator arrives in South Africa where she will meet with the President Jacob Zuma, hold a discussion with women leaders and launch a song as part of the UN's Millennium Development Goals (MDG) campaign.

Tanzania makes progress on education and deepening democracy

Tue, 11 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

On the last day of her four-day official visit to Tanzania, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) chief Helen Clark met with President Jakaya Kikwete to discuss Tanzania's progress on a range of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Biodiversity, MDGs top Helen Clark's Tanzania agenda

Mon, 10 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Helen Clark continues her four country visit to Africa, meeting today with Tanzania's Minister for Finance and Economic Affairs, Mustafa Mkulo to discuss the country's progress towards the MDGs, particularly on combating HIV/AIDS, empowering women, and enrolling children in primary school.

UNDP Administrator meets with Tanzania Foreign Minister

Sat, 08 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP chief Helen Clark met today with Tanzania's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Bernard Kamillius Membe, on the first day of a four day official visit to Tanzania.

Rural technology for development in Burkina Faso

Thu, 06 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

On the first day of her official visit to Burkina Faso, UNDP chief Helen Clark met with rural women farmers who benefit from a regional energy programme that is turning them into entrepreneurs while promoting local access to energy and rural development across the country.

Community organizations key to fighting HIV/AIDS in Burkina Faso

Thu, 06 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

On the last day of her official visit to Burkina Faso, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark visited one of 176 UNDP supported community HIV/AIDS associations and spoke with sex workers about their concerns for the future.

Femmes entrepreneurs du Burkina Faso

Wed, 05 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Grâce au PNUD un nombre croissant de femmes burkinabé profitent des services financiers qui les mènent, elles comme leurs familles, vers une autosuffisance et un meilleur cadre de vie.

Helen Clark concludes Mali visit

Tue, 04 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Administrator Helen Clark wrapped up her Mali visit today where she underscored the country's progress on achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

Helen Clark salue les progrès effectués au Mali

Mon, 03 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

La dirigeante du PNUD tient des propos encourageants envers l'approche adoptée par le Mali pour faire face au VIH/Sida.

UNDP helps build headquarters for Liberian women and children's unit

Mon, 03 May 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a US$550,000 construction project,the specialized Unit for Women and Children with have a fully equipped office complex.

Visite de Helen Clark en Afrique

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

L'Administrateur appelle à renouveler les engagements en faveur des Objectifs du Millénaire pour le développement.

Día Mundial de la Malaria: reducción de la vulnerabilidad en Sudán

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

El Día Mundial de la Malaria, que se celebra el 25 de abril, es una oportunidad para fijar la atención sobre los esfuerzos mundiales que se hacen para controlar esta enfermedad que puede causar la muerte, transmitida a los humanos por los mosquitos infectados.

Director of UNDP in Africa visits Malawi

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Tegegnework Gettu attended a finance ministers' summit held jointly by the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commissions for Africa.

Strengthening peace and security in West Africa

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Key UN stakeholders in West Africa examined ways to strategically improve the coordination of their efforts promoting stability and development in the sub-region.

Heads of state discuss South-South cooperation

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The International Policy Centre for Inclusive Growth organised the India-Brazil-South Africa Academic Forum: A Policy Dialogue as a means of bringing together specialists, policy makers, researchers and the civil society from the three countries to discuss key issues for the promotion of inclusive growth.

Empowering women to boost African development

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

In Sub-Saharan Africa, progress toward achieving gender equality and women's empowerment has been modest, but several countries have been spearheading policies that address women's needs.

La plateforme multi-fonctionnelle aide à la lutte contre la pauvreté

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Grâce à une pluralité de fonctions, cette simple machine libère les femmes de certaines corvées longues et laborieuses, et libère du temps pour leur permettre de générer de nouveaux revenus qui leur sont propres.

Tourisme et réduction de la pauvreté en Namibie

Thu, 08 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Un projet financé par le Fonds de l'environnement mondial via l'intermédiaire du PNUD contribue de manière significative à l'économie namibienne en encourageant le tourisme dans les parcs.

Lucha contra la violencia de género en Rwanda

Tue, 06 Apr 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Con el apoyo del PNUD, un centro da apoyo sanitario, jurídico y psicosocial a las víctimas de la violencia de género en Ruanda.

African countries pledge assistance to Haiti

Wed, 31 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

African countries have pledged more than eight million dollars during the International Donors' Conference for Haiti to help the country recover from the devastating earthquake of January 12.

Burkina Faso: Appui auprès des patients séropositifs

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Une fois entamé, le traitement par les Antirétroviraux (ARV) dure toute la vie. Au sein des "Centres d'observance" soutenus par le PNUD, les personnes qui viennent de commencer le traitement par les ARV font l'apprentissage d'une nouvelle vie.

Launch of inter-university development journal in Mozambique

Tue, 23 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

The first ever interdisciplinary and inter-university Mozambican journal on development issues was launched in Maputo last month.

Tanzania: Renewable energy powers water supply and irrigation system

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP is working with a community organization as well as the local government to construct a dual purpose water supply system for irrigation and for domestic water use, powered by solar panels.

Ghana: New wells boost school attendance, improve public health

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

As part of a UNDP community water initiative in Zukpuri, 10 young men and women received training in well drilling, pump testing, water quality testing and community water management.

UN Secretary-General cites Millennium Villages in latest report

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Ban ki-Moon lauds the Millennium Villages project for its holistic approach and cooperation with the private sector.

World Water Day 2010: Clean water for a healthy world

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Today, on World Water Day, we are reminded of how the availability of clean water and safe sanitation shapes human lives in many ways.

Kenya: Rooting women into enterprise

Fri, 19 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

Fanikisha, a Swahili word meaning "to prosper" sums up the success of a joint project that aims to promote women in business and investment in Kenya.

Promoting African commodity exchanges

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 04:00:00 GMT

In April 2008, Ethiopia's first commodity exchange was established in a country where only a third of the agricultural produce reached the market. UNDP is now looking into the possibility of replicating the model in the neighboring countries.

New York Times: Shower of aid brings a ton of progress

Tue, 09 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Sauri was the first of what are now more than 80 Millennium Villages across Africa. In the past five years, life in this bushy little patch of western Kenya has improved dramatically.

Launch of Africa Adaptation Programme in Namibia

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Namibia has become one of the first African countries to launch the climate change adaptation programme which aims to create systems to manage climate change risks and opportunities in the long-term.

Sierra Leone forum condemns violence against young girls

Fri, 05 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Following an alarming spate of rapes in Sierra Leone in the first 3 months of 2010, a UNDP-civil society organizations forum is calling for a vigorous response to stop human rights violations and criminal acts against young girls.

Director of UNDP Africa discusses UNDP-China-Africa partnership in Beijing

Wed, 03 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Tegegnework Gettu, Director of RBA and Associate Administrator of UNDP, met with Niu Dun, Vice Minister of China's Ministry of Agriculture on March 3rd 2010.

Paix et sécurité : des priorités pour les présidentielles togolaises

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Le 4 mars, les Togolais éliront leur nouveau président dans un climat d'attente et d'espoir.

Japan gives US$2 million to demine drought-stricken areas of Ethiopia

Fri, 26 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a US$2 million emergency contribution from Japan, UNDP will help to de-mine 2.5 million square meters of land in Ethiopia, safely opening it up for use by drought-stricken local residents and nomadic populations.

Head of UNAIDS visits Millennium Village in Nigeria

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Executive Director Michel Sidibé pays a visit to the Pampaida Millennium Village.

Burundi : soutien au processus électoral

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Après plus d'une décennie de guerre, le Burundi a confié à la Commission électorale indépendante (CENI) la tâche délicate d'organiser les secondes élections générales du pays en période de paix.

Rwanda: Building a bridge to better governance

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Under the Delivering as One agenda, the UN is supporting local leaders to work together to bring sustainable, community-led improvements to their citizens.

UNDP re-directs US$25 million towards capable and inclusive states

Fri, 19 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Following the outcome of a global governance meeting in Dakar, Senegal, UNDP has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening credible national institutions like parliaments, human rights organizations and anti-corruption commissions in developing countries. US$25 million has already been allocated for such initiatives in 2010.

Capable states a prerequisite for African development

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Experts at a UNDP conference on democratic governance concurred that Africa needs strong, capable states to reach development goals.

Political leaders, UNDP calling for sound democratic governance

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

A major governance summit opened yesterday in Dakar, Senegal, with high-level political leaders stressing the importance of strong states.

Zambia: biodiversity and livelihoods go hand in hand

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

In Zambia's North-Western province, UNDP is focusing on biodiversity and livelihoods as two sides of the same coin.

Sierra Leone: sexual violence remains unpunished

Wed, 10 Feb 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Inequalities between men and women in Sierra Leone are among the worst. By the end of their life span, nearly all Sierra Leonean women will suffer from some form of sexual or gender based violence.

Launch of Africa-UNiTE

Sat, 30 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

"Africa-UNiTE to end Violence against Women and Girls", the Africa component of the Secretary General's campaign was launched on January 30th in Addis Ababa.

Dans le nord-est du Mali, le déminage laisse place au développement

Tue, 26 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Tinzawatene, dans l'extrême nord-est du Mali, s'est entièrement débarrassée de ses mines anti-personnel.

Filling the judicial gap in eastern Chad

Thu, 21 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP, the UN peacekeeping mission and the legal fraternity in Chad are collaborating to fill the gap in judiciary professionals in the eastern part of the country, by training civil servants to perform the functions of magistrates.

Youth employment and empowerment in Sierra Leone

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

Vocational training courses and political reconciliation projects are helping youths in Sierra Leone to acquire skills and become leaders.

Youth in Sierra Leone find hope in entrepreneurship

Tue, 12 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

To provide hope and opportunity for the youth of the Kono district, UNDP is implementing programmes that support nascent entrepreneurs, allowing them to start their own businesses and providing them with training.

UNDP supports first forum on reintegrating displaced people in Chad

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

In the first forum of its kind, UNDP has brought together community, religious and military leaders in eastern Chad to define ways of promoting peaceful co-existence among conflict-affected communities in the region.

Climate change: the Zambian story

Tue, 05 Jan 2010 05:00:00 GMT

In Zambia, any change in climate can spell disaster. With a majority of Zambians depending on agriculture, even a slight change in temperature can affect crops like maize with catastrophic consequences for livelihoods.

A second life for refugee camps in north-western Tanzania

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Situated in the north-west of Tanzania, the regions of Kigoma and Kagera are among the poorest and most marginalized areas in the country.

La carte d'identité pour un million de burundais en plus

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Un million de burundais en âge de voter en mai 2010 recevront une carte nationale d'identité gratuite.

UNDP and Japan to train 2,000 police officers in DRC

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP and the Japanese aid agency JICA have signed an agreement to train the national police force in North Kivu and the Oriental Province of DRC as soon as January 2010.

Guerre civile congolaise : les rescapées parlent

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Certaines victimes de la guerre civile ont accepté de parler lors d'un atelier tenu dans le département du Pool, l'un des plus touchés par les conflits armés en République du Congo.

UN helps beef up disaster preparedness across Mozambique

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to initiatives by Mozambique's National Disaster Management Institute (INGC), Mozambique has become a leader in disaster preparedness. UNDP has helped to strengthen INGC's preparedness and response capacities.

Copenhagen: the African dimension

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Finalising a climate deal isn't just about responding to Africa's vulnerabilities. It also means that we must assess how African countries can contribute to the solution.

Fiche pays: le Mali et les changements climatiques

Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Au Mali, l'impact du changement climatique s'est fait lourdement sentir ces 40 dernières années avec l'accroissement du taux de désertification et les inondations.

UNDP and climate change

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP has implemented environment and sustainable development programmes in 120 countries, disbursing US$408 million through 2,729 projects that address all aspects of climate change.

Comoros: now « delivering as one »

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The Union of Comoros has become the latest country to "deliver as one" as part of the UN reform process.

Clark ends trip to Kenya; discusses reform agenda, climate change

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 05:00:00 GMT

On the last day of her first official visit to Kenya, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark met with Prime Minister Raila Odinga and discussed the ongoing political and constitutional reform agenda, Kenya's response to the global economic recession, and the country's plan to shift towards a green economy.

Taking stock of Beijing, 15 years on

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Twenty-eight African Ministers in charge of gender affairs and more than 600 other high level participants from 43 African countries participated in a Regional Review of "Beijing + 15" in Banjul, the Gambia.

UNDP engages Namibian communities in conversation on HIV/AIDS

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP is supporting a nationwide programme that engages communities in dialogue on the causes of HIV and AIDS, boosting local responses to the epidemic.

Ghana launches development communication club

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP in Ghana has set up a "communication club" to engage students and journalists on development issues.

UNDP empowers communities to treat TB in Burkina

Fri, 20 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a community care project to fight tuberculosis, a nationwide net work of community associations has been set up to support patients during the treatment.

Hunger is the lack of rain

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

With funds from the UNDP-Spain MDG Achievement Fund, six UN agencies are helping a Mozambican district to adapt to climate change.

Kenyans, Moroccan receive top awards for Africa photo contest

Wed, 18 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The winning photographs of a contest organized by UNDP feature environmentalists planting trees in a water catchment area in Kenya, Moroccan women turning plastic bags into handbags as part of a fair trade project, and a Kenyan couple planting a tree on their wedding day.

Crown Prince Haakon completes Botswana trip

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Crown Prince Haakon of Norway has completed a three-day visit of Botswana where he met with officials, addressed students on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and visited a biodiversity project.

Budget reform and achieving the MDGs in West and Central Africa

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP's regional office for West and Central Africa will convene a group of international experts to discuss improved budget programming to accomplish the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) in the sub-region.

Côte d'Ivoire: UN transports voters lists for upcoming poll

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) began transporting provisional voters lists to polling stations across the country in preparation for the upcoming presidential election.

UN commemorates anniversary of Hargeisa bombings

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

On 29 October 2008, five bombing attacks took place in Hargeisa and Bossaso, northern Somalia, one of them targeting a UN compound.

Factsheet: UNDP's support to the Mozambique elections

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The fourth general election in Mozambique will take place on Wednesday, 28 October 2009. For the first time ever, provincial assembly elections will be conducted along with the presidential and legislative polls.

More than 1,700 observers oversee Mozambican elections

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Mozambique is almost ready for the elections. Seven helicopters are making the last material deliveries to the polling posts. The police are stationed to secure peace during the elections. The observer groups too, are geared up for their important role.

The UN at 64: Climate Change in the Spotlight

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations turns 64 on 24 October 2009. To celebrate this day, UNDP staff organized a variety of events engaging the general public and government officials, and raising awareness on key development issues.

UNDP honours Frances Stewart with human development award

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP honoured outstanding contributions to work on advancing human development. This year's Mahbub ul Haq Award was presented to Professor Frances Stewart of the United Kingdom for her lifetime achievements in promoting human development.

In Nigeria, CFCs will soon be a thing of the past

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Refrigerators and air conditioners that use ozone-depleting substances are rapidly being phased out with support from UNDP.

Villages solaires du Bénin

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Dans deux villages reculés du Bénin, l'énergie solaire permet à 300 ménages d'accomplir diverses tâches dont le rechargement des téléphones portables et l'éclairage des foyers.

Ensuring local benefits from natural resources in Tanzania

Sat, 17 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A professional training workshop on investment contracts - the first of its kind in Tanzania - was targeted at experts taking part in government negotiation teams: lawyers, economists, finance experts and geologists.

Au Gabon, environnement et lutte contre le chômage vont de pair

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Grâce à 200 jeunes "précollecteurs", qui disposent désormais d'un emploi, 300 000 habitants des quartiers défavorisés de Libreville bénificient désormais de services de ramassage des ordures.

Africa comes together in Burkina to talk about climate change

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Global Forum on Sustainable Development, to be held here from 9 to 11 October, will enable sub-Saharan Africa to continue to consolidate its views on climate change.

Human Development Report challenges common migration misconceptions

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Allowing for migration both within and between countries has the potential to increase people's freedom and improve the lives of millions around the world, according to the 2009 Human Development Report.

Africans, with most to gain, face tough barriers to movement

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Migration is a way for Africans to improve their lives, but most seeking to move, face significant barriers, particularly across borders, according to the 2009 Human Development Report launched today.

Millennium Villages team up with World Food Programme

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Highlighting the growing challenge of hunger and malnutrition and the urgent need for solutions and partnerships, the World Food Programme and the Millennium Villages project today announced plans to expand joint action to cut hunger and malnutrition across Africa.

Journalists commit to fair communication on Mozambique election

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP has helped to organize a series of workshops for journalists around Mozambique as part of the country's ongoing efforts to guarantee free and fair elections on 28 October.

UNDP to support Burundi elections

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP is to manage a USD44 million basket fund to support Burundi's 2010 election process, sealing the country's transition to peace.

UNAIDS, Millennium Villages join forces on children and HIV in Africa

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNAIDS and the Millennium Villages Project have signed an agreement to strengthen efforts to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV in Africa.

As G20 prepares to meet, UN calls on donors to meet aid commitments

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Global poverty-fighting commitments are more important than ever in a world facing economic, food and climate crises, the UN said today, in a report on support for the Millennium Development Goals.
View MDG Gap Task Force Report

UN assists flood victims in Ouagadougou

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Flood victims are finding refuge in over 110 centers in Ouagadougou. UNDP has allocated USD 50,000 to assess needs and coordinate the interventions of the UN.

DR Congo: More than a million people register to vote

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 04:00:00 GMT

More than 1.25 million people have registered to vote in Kinshasa Province in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, in the first phase of a countrywide exercise to revise the electoral roll, ahead of local elections scheduled for 2010.

Niger: UNDP boosts livelihoods for women and girls

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

About 1,200 conflict-affected women and girls in northern Niger are benefiting from an economic recovery assistance programme that will also promote cooperation among previously conflicting communities.

Tanzania launches forest initiative to address climate change

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Tanzania has embarked on a $4.2 million initiative to fight climate change by focusing on sustainable forest management.

Mozambique prepares for October elections

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP is providing training for election officials and conducting awareness raising activities ahead of the Mozambican elections of October 28.

UNDP details Zimbabwe's economic challenges and prospects for recovery

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP and a team of Zimbabwean economists highlight the country's economic challenges, issuing policy recommendations for recovery.

République centrafricaine : Alléger la dette externe

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Avec l'aide du PNUD, la République centrafricaine a mis en uvre une stratégie de réforme efficace qui lui a valu d'obtenir une remise de dette de 500 millions de dollars EU.

Mozambique making progress but real challenges lie ahead

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Mozambique has made remarkable progress in the improvement of the lives of its citizens, according to the latest report of the African Peer Review Mechanism.

Displaced people in DRC to benefit from social and economic services

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

About 125,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the South Kivu province of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo will benefit from a joint UN social and economic recovery programme over the next 18 months.

Mozambique: Chibuto Millennium Village reviewed by Japanese journalists

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Chibuto now has agricultural fields with a wide range of vegetable produce, fish ponds, chicken farms, a local health post, an ICT centre in full use and a newly constructed school - all made and run by the villagers.

Achieving the MDGs at grassroots level

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Millennium Villages in Ghana have generated significant improvements at the household and village levels in agriculture, health and education sectors.

EC-UNDP-IDEA joint workshop on effective electoral assistance

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The workshop also served as an occasion to launch an e-Learning programme on effective electoral assistance developed by EC, UNDP and IDEA.

Government of Japan, UNDP support financial journalism in Ghana

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The three-day interactive seminar for student journalists focused on corporate governance.

Japanese journalists invited to Mozambique Millennium Village

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Journalists from the leading Japanese daily newspaper Asahi Shimbun were impressed by the progress made in Chibuto over the last three years.

31 million voting cards for Congo

Sun, 28 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP and the Independent Electoral Commission of Congo (IEC) received the third and final batch of 12,760,000 voting cards at Kinshasa airport.

UNDP launches photo contest in Africa

Fri, 19 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP, in partnership with Olympus Corporation and the Agence France-Presse (AFP) Foundation, launched an Africa-based, eco-themed photo contest today in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

UNDP Administrator meets volunteers diffusing conflict in DRC

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Helen Clark has joined government ministers and community leaders to launch a new UNV-supported volunteering initiative aimed at spreading a message of peace.

Director of Regional Bureau for Africa at UNDP's regional meeting

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Helen Clark visits Ethiopia's first commodity exchange

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The UNDP Administrator visited the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange, which serves as a market place where buyers and sellers come together to freely trade products.

Helen Clark meets Ethiopian Prime Minister

Tue, 16 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Administrator visits the Democratic Republic of Congo

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

During her first trip to Africa as UNDP Administrator, Helen Clark visited a UNDP-supported voter registration center.

UNDP Administrator wraps up visit to DRC

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

After wrapping up a four-day official visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark spoke of a need for a peace dividend, and the participation of women at all levels of society and government.

HIV/AIDS a focus of UNDP Administrator's visit to the DRC

Sat, 13 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

On her first official visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Helen Clark visited a walk-in HIV/AIDS Clinic run by Congolese NGO ACS AMO Congo (Actions Communautaires contre le Sida - Avenir Meilleur pour les Orphelins) in the populous heart of Kinshasa.

Les entrepreneurs s'engagent à investir davantage en Afrique

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Les dirigeant de grandes entreprises internationales se sont réunis aujourd'hui lors du Forum économique mondial afin de marquer le premier anniversaire du lancement de l'Appel à l'action des entreprises (BCTA).

Helen Clark starts first visit to Africa, meets with Liberia President

Thu, 11 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Helen Clark commended Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf for the progress made in Liberia under her three year-old presidency, which came on the heels of decades of violent conflict.

Helen Clark, UNDP Administrator, to visit the DRC

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The UNDP Administrator's visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo will take her to Kinshasa and Goma.

New border post key to ending Sierra Leone-Liberia trafficking

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Sierra Leone and Liberia made another break from their charred history of violence and war by establishing a border post at a key crossing for arms trafficking and illegal immigration.

UNDP Ethiopia provides "camel ambulances" for desert health care

Mon, 08 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP in Ethiopia is providing 145 "camel ambulances" to help rural pastoralists in remote desert areas reach nearby health posts for emergency care.

Africa: Green sources of energy

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In Africa, UNDP, as an implementing partner of the Global Environment Facility (GEF), is getting people in remote areas onto the electrical grid by harnessing green sources of energy like hydropower and solar energy.

Pampaida Fishing Festival: A tale of 'waste to wealth'

Wed, 03 Jun 2009 04:00:00 GMT

About 1,500 fish were harvested from a demonstration fish pond and sold directly to community members, project staff and spectators.

Burkina Faso: Cours d'alphabétisation pour les élus locaux

Fri, 29 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Une trentaine des vélos sont garés devant le mur d'une école rurale à Meguet, 140 kilomètres au nord-est de Ouagadougou.

UNDP and UNAIDS team with parliamentarians on HIV

Thu, 21 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNAIDS and UNDP have signed a memorandum of understanding with the Forum of Arab and African Parliamentarians for Population and Development to promote access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services.

Indigenous groups bear witness to climate change damage

Mon, 18 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The Baka people in Eastern Cameroon are using video cameras provided by UNDP and the Global Environment Facility to document how climate change is damaging the forests where they live.

Namibia: Recovering from the worst floods in 46 years

Thu, 14 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Since early 2009, torrential rains and severe flooding in the north-central and north-eastern regions of Namibia have killed almost 100 people.Out of over 350,000 people who have lost their livelihoods, more than 55,000 have been displaced.

Voter registration in the Democratic Republic of Congo

Mon, 04 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

With more than 27 million eligible voters in a country that lacks the most basic infrastructure, elections in the Democratic Republic of Congo are no easy task. Therefore, preparations are underway for a large scale voter registration update that begins on June 7.

World Press Freedom Day

Fri, 01 May 2009 04:00:00 GMT

In a significant step towards free media, Sierra Leone is preparing for an independent public-service radio to replace the government-run broadcast service.

Lutte contre l'analphabétisme au Burkina Faso

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Pour mieux lutter contre l'analphabétisme, plus de 80 volontaires ont été affectés à travers le pays pour travailler dans les écoles primaires.

Japan assists Millennium Village project in Mozambique

Tue, 31 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP and the Government of Japan have signed an agreement worth US 6.8 million to support the Millennium Villages project in Mozambique.

Multi-agency UN project to boost local government in Liberia

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The signing of a six-agency project in Liberia is a major step toward restoring civil administration in the West African country, UNDP said today.

US$18 million to fund UN forestry programme combating climate change

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

A United Nations programme aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from forests and boosting livelihoods in tropical nations has approved $18 million in support of five pilot countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

Multi-functional platforms transform Ghana village community

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

Women working with 40 multi-functional platforms in a Ghana community have acquired essential skills to help enhance productivity in their village.

Launch of "Getting Ahead: Testimonials of Women in Politics"

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 04:00:00 GMT

The iKNOW Politics film features the stories of prominent women leaders from Burundi, Canada, Ireland, Jordan, Namibia, Norway, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa, and Uganda.

'Maama' Kits promote safe deliveries in Uganda

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Thanks to a health kit disseminated by UNDP, the number of medically-supervised deliveries in the Millennium Village of Ruhiira has increased to 75 percent.

International Women's Day Special: Faces of strength and courage

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 05:00:00 GMT

March 8 is International Women's Day, an opportunity to remind the world of women's economic, political and social achievements. Find out more about UNDP's work in gender equality and women's empowerment.

"Liberia was a virtual blank slate"

Mon, 23 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Jordan Ryan, Head of the UN in Liberia, on building a united UN presence from the bottom up.

Senators in Burundi uphold rights of men who have sex with men

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Senators in Burundi overwhelmingly rejected an amendment of the penal code that included provisions for imprisonment of people who have sexual relationships with those of the same sex.

Virtual One UN office emerges in Tanzania

Tue, 03 Feb 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Tanzania's effort follows a similar initiative already underway in Mozambique to implement a "virtual UN office" linking different parts of the UN system with one another.

Madagascar: Ban calls for protection of civilians

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 05:00:00 GMT

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today offered United Nations support to help foster reconciliation in Madagascar where serious unrest has led to the death of dozens of people.

Lighting up Lesotho

Mon, 29 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The "Lesotho Renewable Energy-Based Rural Electrification" project brings hope to thousands of households in remote areas of Lesotho.

Israel and UNDP sign agreement in support of African development

Tue, 16 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Israel and UNDP signed a partnership framework agreement to support development and the Millennium Development Goals, particularly in Africa.

Japan invests US$92 million to help Africa weather climate change

Wed, 10 Dec 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Twenty-one African countries are set to benefit from a programme backed by the Japanese Government, which is designed to support their efforts to adapt to climate change.

World AIDS Day: UN celebrates African Red Ribbon Award Winners

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

As part of World AIDS Day December 1st, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) is honoring 25 Red Ribbon Award winners with funds to bolster their work.

Charge a cell phone, save yourself a trip

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Before they had any electricity, the inhabitants of Matiacoali, situated in a remote area east of Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, had to travel 100 kilometres to charge their cell phone batteries.

Female prison management workers hired in Central African Republic

Mon, 10 Nov 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Four female prison wardens and 12 female prison guards have been seconded to the Minister of Justice as part of UNDP's Project in Support of Judicial Security.

UN highlights development successes in EU partnership

Thu, 16 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations has published its third annual report detailing joint UN/EU achievements. The report covers 2007 with a focus on human rights and the Millennium Development Goals.

Five communities awarded for climate change, biodiversity initiatives

Tue, 07 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Equator Initiative, a United Nations-led partnership that supports grassroots efforts in biodiversity conservation and poverty alleviation, announced today five communities selected to receive "special recognition" for the Equator Prize 2008.

Equator Initiative selects winners for global biodiversity conservation Prize

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The Equator Initiative, a UN-led partnership that supports grassroots efforts in biodiversity conservation and poverty alleviation, has selected 25 winners of the Equator Prize 2008.

Somaliland's legal clinic spreads its wings

Wed, 10 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A free, Hargeisa-based legal clinic set up by the UNDP four years ago to ensure fair trials sees positive results, and plans to strengthen and expand its efforts.

South-South Cooperation in Social Protection

Tue, 09 Sep 2008 04:00:00 GMT

African officials participated in a Study Tour organize by UNDP International Poverty Centre in Brazil. This initiative aims at fostering cooperation in the development of successful social protection policies.

500 bikes for peace in northern Uganda

Fri, 15 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP launches a peace bikes' campaign aimed at supporting and broadening women's contribution to the peace process in war-affected communities in northern Uganda.

Grassroots democracy strengthens local government in Puntland

Mon, 04 Aug 2008 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP continues to help form representative district councils with more women in Puntland, Somalia, in an effort to improve efficiency and responsiveness in local governance.

UNDP helps sex workers find alternative careers in Burkina Faso

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The UNDP is helping to raise awareness of HIV/AIDS and train hundreds of sex workers to find other areas of employment.

UNDP supports first Women's Lawyers Association in Somaliland

Tue, 22 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Somalia's first Women's Lawyers Association establishes itself in Somaliland and expects to have more than 20 members by September 2008.

UNDP promotes small arms control in Mozambique

Wed, 16 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP has delivered equipment to the Mozambican Interior Ministry that will help to fight crime and promote security in the country.

A university in Mozambique teaches the economics of HIV & AIDS

Wed, 09 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

As part of UNDP's action plan to meet its millennium development goals in Mozambique, the Eduardo Mondlane University in Maputo has started training sessions in the economics of HIV & AIDS.

Consensus for achieving the MDGs in Africa

Tue, 01 Jul 2008 04:00:00 GMT

With aid lagging, African leaders and key international organizations launch a landmark consensus report on how to achieve the Millennium Development Goals in Africa. The plan agreed to translate existing commitments into on-the-ground results that tackle poverty, hunger and disease.

Ghana among the first African countries to halve poverty

Mon, 23 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Ghana achieves UN's Millennium Development Goal to halve poverty by 2015, but still faces challenges ahead in areas including high infant mortality and maternal mortality.

UNAIDS and UNDP announce Red Ribbon Award 2008 winners

Wed, 11 Jun 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The innovative and sustainable approaches taken by the 25 winning organizations to provide prevention services, care, treatment and support to people living with HIV provide inspiring evidence that local actions are worthy routes to respond to the global epidemic.

TICAD IV sets framework for a "century of African growth"

Fri, 30 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Representatives from 51 African countries, including 40 Heads of State and Government, joined Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda of Japan, in creating a blueprint for a "century of African growth" at the Fourth Tokyo International Conference on African Development.

Japan, UNDP to help Africa on climate change adaptation

Thu, 29 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the government of Japan unveiled here today a new US$ 92.1 million programme for climate change adaptation in Africa.

TICAD IV sets agenda for hope and opportunity

Wed, 28 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

More than 40 African heads of State will gather in Yokohama, Japan for the Fourth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD IV) on May 28 to 30, hosted by Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda.

Getting a better deal for Africa

Thu, 22 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

Countries in sub-Saharan Africa are expected to secure better and more sustainable agreements when negotiating large-scale investment contracts through a regional initiative led by UNDP and launched here today.

Civil Society in Nigeria: contributing to positive social change

Thu, 22 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The CIVICUS Civil Society Index (CSI) project in Nigeria was implemented by Action Aid Nigeria and DevNet with support from UNDP-Nigeria. The important role that civil society plays in creating and implementing public policies has been widely recognized.

Online distance learning initiative benefits Somali students

Thu, 08 May 2008 04:00:00 GMT

More than 1200 Somali students benefit ever year from a UNDP-supported online distance learning initiative. The program, which tries to keep fees realistic and intends to attract more women, offers a range of courses from journalism to information technology.

Delivering services in post-election Kenya

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 04:00:00 GMT

A new and innovative Emergency Volunteer Scheme (EVS) which brings together national leaders in various professions such as sports, music, media and education as well as faith organisations is changing lives in post-election Kenya.

Mozambique on the right path to development, but obstacles still exist

Sat, 29 Mar 2008 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Associate Administrator Ad Melkert today outlined three priorities emerging from UNDP's annual meeting of top managers in Africa, and their relevance for tackling the urgent development challenges facing Mozambique, where the meeting took place.

Japan grants US$137 million to UNDP

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 04:00:00 GMT

The grant will support reconstruction assistance in Afghanistan, a peacekeeping support programme in Africa, and a response to humanitarian crisis and peacebuilding in Africa with a particular focus on countries vulnerable to climate change.

The Gates Foundation grants US $19 million to women's programs in West Africa

Fri, 22 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The four-year grant will help establish 600 new sustainable, rural agro-enterprises in the West African countries of Burkina Faso, Mali and Senegal. The program, supported by UNDP, will boost the productivity and income of women farmers using low-cost, mechanized power.

UNDP, Fortis announce greenhouse-gas reduction projects

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The MDG Carbon Facility's first four project agreements consist of three methane capture projects located in Uzbekistan, Macedonia and Yemen, and a renewable energy project in Rwanda.

Japan provides aid to tackle proliferation of weapons in Africa

Fri, 15 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Government of Japan will make a contribution of US$3 million to fund the "Programme to Tackle the Illicit Proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons in the Economic Community of West African States."

US$175 million secured for The Gambia's fight against poverty

Fri, 08 Feb 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The Gambia's main development partners pledged financial support over the next three years to back up the country's poverty reduction strategy.

Millennium Village sets standards for local development in Nigeria

Tue, 29 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Farmer witness firsthand the progress made in a UN Millennium Village.

Cadbury, UNDP team up for sustainable cocoa farming

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The confectionery company announced the establishment of the Cadbury Cocoa Partnership with UNDP, the Ghanaian Government and other partners, in an initiative designed to secure the sustainable livelihoods of a million farmers in cocoa-growing communities across Ghana, India, Indonesia and the Caribbean.

UNDP to sign US$390 million governance programme with DRC

Fri, 25 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The programme in the Democratic Republic of Congo will run though 2012 and aims to support sustainable human development in the country.

UNDP concerned about reports of sexual violence in Kenya

Tue, 22 Jan 2008 05:00:00 GMT

The recent reports of increasing sexual violence against displaced women in Kenya are of great concern, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) said today.

Zidane visits Niger

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Zinédine Zidane visited Niger on December 8 for a two-day mission to visit projects in the capital, Niamey.

Sierra Leone's first street art exhibition

Tue, 04 Dec 2007 05:00:00 GMT

A four-day art exhibition was launched in Freetown displaying an extensive range of paintings and sculptures from more than thirty youth.

Zidane to visit Niger

Thu, 29 Nov 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Niamey/Geneva. 29 November 2007 Zinédine Zidane, world football legend and UNDP Goodwill Ambassador, to visit projects to combat poverty in Niger

Civil Society Advisory Forum Created in Malawi

Wed, 28 Nov 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator and representatives of the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) in Malawi have set up an advisory forum to the UNCT with the objective of engaging in policy dialogue with civil society partners.

Climate change, Africa and the MDGs

Tue, 27 Nov 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Regions with the smallest carbon emissions will be the hardest hit by the effects of climate change according the 2007/2008 UNDP Human Development Report launched here today.

African countries commit to strengthening state capacities for good governance

Fri, 26 Oct 2007 04:00:00 GMT

After three days of around-the-clock deliberations, the 300 delegates at the Seventh Africa Governance Forum(AGFVII) commit to strengthening state capacities for good governance.

Better governance tops Africa's development agenda

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Helping Africa's governments meet the needs of their people is the topic of discussion at a three-day forum which opened here today.

Seventh Africa Governance Forum

Tue, 23 Oct 2007 04:00:00 GMT

The Seventh Africa Governance Forum (AGFVII), convened by the Regional Bureau for Africa of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will open here on 25 October, bringing together representatives from about 30 African countries to discuss key challenges facing them in capacity development for social, economic and political development.

UNDP Administrator visits Mozambique Millennium Village

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Administrator Kemal Dervis started a 10-day African tour on 6 October by visiting a new Millennium Village - in Mozambique.

UN pledges support to Sierra Leone's president-elect

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Southern Sudan's first prison training center now officially open

Thu, 13 Sep 2007 04:00:00 GMT

The center will receive up to 1,500 former combatants over the next six months.

UN calls for peaceful Sierra Leone presidential run-off

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 04:00:00 GMT

As Sierra Leoneans prepare to elect their president at the run-off polls tomorrow, the United Nations is encouraging all voters to turn out and cast their ballots peacefully.

Youth vote expected to decide Sierra Leone's future

Fri, 10 Aug 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Ninety-one percent of eligible voters - 56 percent of whom are under the age of 32 - are registered to vote in the first general elections since the departure of UN peacekeepers in 2005.

Musicians sing out for violence free elections in Sierra Leone

Tue, 31 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP-supported Artists for Peace' take their peace train to the provinces ahead of August 11 elections.

Shea butter initiative empowers Ghanaian women

Tue, 24 Jul 2007 04:00:00 GMT

A UNDP-Japan shea butter initiative promises to encourage women and boost take-home income in Ghana.

UNDP Kenya joins Equity Bank to promote women in business

Sun, 24 Jun 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Equity Bank will open three new branches in Nairobi to serve women only under a programme with UNDP.

"Now I'm a businessman"

Wed, 30 May 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Last December, Bassou Nguesso, a former warlord from the Republic of Congo, gave up his weapons as part of a UNDP-supported Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration programme that has collected 9,000 weapons and provided many of their previous owners a job.

Backgrounder: UNDP AND AMSCO/ATMS Zimbabwe

Thu, 17 May 2007 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Congo signs cooperation agreement with Total

Wed, 09 May 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Total and UNDP in Congo have signed an agreement that will allow the partners to work on development projects together.

UNDP Associate Administrator visits Democratic Republic of Congo

Fri, 27 Apr 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Ad Melkert, UNDP Under-Secretary-General and Associate Administrator, concluded a three-day official visit to Kinshasa and Goma this week, witnessing local responses to the challenge of building democracy in a post-crisis country.

UNDP Administrator calls for measures to create jobs in Africa

Thu, 26 Apr 2007 04:00:00 GMT

Citing the strong partnership between the ILO and his organization, UNDP Administrator Kemal Dervis called on donor countries to improve aid, provide greater debt relief and follow-up on financing commitments to support international efforts to create new jobs and reduce widespread poverty in Africa.

Rwanda becomes One UN' pilot country

Tue, 10 Apr 2007 04:00:00 GMT

The UN System and the Rwandan Government today officially confirmed that Rwanda would embark on the UN's reform agenda, becoming what is known as a One UN' pilot country.

United Nations-led Equator Initiative selects finalists for Global Biodiversity Conservation Prize

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 04:00:00 GMT

The Equator Initiative announced the finalists for its 2006 Equator Prize, honoring 25 extraordinary efforts to harness the equatorial region's biodiversity to lessen widespread poverty.

Japan grants aid to Africa

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The Government of Japan agreed to extend grants to the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic and Sierra Leone through UNDP as assistance to sustainable peace in Africa.

UNDP-supported athletes finish their run across the Sahara

Fri, 23 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Three exhausted ultrarunners completed their remarkable journey across the Sahara Desert on Wednesday on the Egyptian Red Sea coast, 20 miles from Cairo, finishing a grueling 7300 km (4580 mile) campaign to raise awareness of the world water crisis and broader poverty.

Zambia releases Human Development Report

Fri, 16 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

The national HIV and AIDS response should take the household as its starting point, recommends the 2007 Zambia Human Development Report.

Eight countries pilot UN reform

Thu, 01 Feb 2007 05:00:00 GMT

Kemal Dervis, in his role as the Chair of the United Nations Development Group (UNDG), announced that the UN will explore new ways of enhancing greater cohesion at the country level in Albania, Cape Verde, Mozambique, Pakistan, Rwanda, Tanzania, Uruguay, and Viet Nam.

African soccer star becomes UNDP Goodwill Ambassador

Wed, 24 Jan 2007 05:00:00 GMT

UNDP appointed soccer star Didier Drogba of Côte d'Ivoire as a Goodwill Ambassador for the fight against poverty at a ceremony in Geneva.

Japan supports National Institute for Demining in Angola

Fri, 15 Dec 2006 05:00:00 GMT

The Government of Japan and UNDP have signed an agreement for a Japanese contribution of approximately US$4 million to the Government of Angola.

A reward for grassroots activists on World AIDS Day

Thu, 30 Nov 2006 05:00:00 GMT

Community groups that are on the front lines of the global AIDS fight are to be honored by the Red Ribbon Award.

A race to confront the world water crisis: Running the Sahara'

Tue, 28 Nov 2006 05:00:00 GMT

To raise awareness of the burgeoning global water crisis and the broader challenges of the developing world, Charlie Engle of the U.S., Canadian Ray Zahab and Taiwan's Kevin Lin are going for a run--across the Sahara Desert.

Helping Africa adapt to climate change

Wed, 15 Nov 2006 05:00:00 GMT

A bold new initiative to secure a greater share of the international carbon finance market for the world's poorest countries was announced today by UNDP and the United Nations Environment Prgramme (UNEP) at the climate convention talks in Nairobi.

Congolese voters turn out for presidential run-off

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 05:00:00 GMT

The Democratic Republic of Congo stepped into the global spotlight again on 29 October when voters headed to the polls for a runoff presidential contest.

Japan grants aid to the Democratic Republic of Congo

Fri, 22 Sep 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Japan has been supporting Africa's efforts for peace and stability, and the Democratic Republic of Congo is one of the important target countries for such assistance.

Liberian president calls for support to reconstruction

Thu, 21 Sep 2006 04:00:00 GMT

President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf called on the international community to step up support for Liberia so as to prevent a possible regression into civil war.

Mozambique releases new human development report

Wed, 06 Sep 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Mozambique's new report captures the relevance of the Millennium Development Goals and their close connection with national development strategies.

Melkert discusses MDG progress with Ethiopian leaders

Mon, 04 Sep 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Ad Melkert, the UNDP Associate Administrator, concluded a visit to Ethiopia, where he witnessed a national determination to achieve the MDGs coupled with enormous development challenges.

Ad Melkert visits Sudan

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP's Associate Administrator ended his visit by confirming the UN's support to the implementation of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement that put an end to Africa's longest civil war.

Ronaldo and Zidane kick off Greener Transport Bid for 2010 World Cup

Mon, 28 Aug 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Renowned international footballers Ronaldo and Zinédine Zidane supported plans to build a cleaner and healthier public transport system in South Africa in time for the 2010 World Cup.

Liberia's development depends on rebuilding public institutions

Fri, 25 Aug 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Liberia's new Human Development Report gauges the toll of violent conflict on human development, and advances practical solutions on how the new government can meet its immediate and long-term development needs.

UNDP links up American journalists with African press

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP has been encouraging the US-based National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) to share its expertise with Africa, particularly by pursuing creative ways of training African journalists both in the region and through exchanges which would bring them to the US.

HIV/AIDS 'Red Ribbon' Awards handed out in Toronto

Thu, 17 Aug 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Five local communities from around the world were honoured here tonight with the newly created Red Ribbon Awards for their outstanding contributions to the frontline response to HIV and AIDS.

Landmark voter turnout in Congo elections

Mon, 31 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Eighty percent of the Democratic Republic of Congo's newly registered 25.7 million voters turned out Sunday for the country's first democratic elections in over 40 years.

Behind the scenes of the DR Congo elections

Fri, 28 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

It is a good day to work for the United Nations Development Programme. Good, because it is not everyday that you can see the results of your work.

UN Volunteers ready for DR Congo's historic elections

Thu, 27 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

About 220 UN Volunteers are assisting with the final preparations in the elections.

Ballots reach polling stations across Democratic Republic of Congo

Wed, 26 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP is helping the Congolese to distribute ballots and essential equipment to around 50,000 polling stations.

Le "nouveau riz pour l'Afrique", 12 ans après sa création

Wed, 26 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

12 ans après qu'un grain de riz africain ait été pour la première fois croisé avec un riz asiatique, l'initiative NERICA ou « New Rice for Africa » (« du riz nouveau pour l'Afrique ») continue de porter ses fruits.

UN helps Democratic Republic of Congo with elections

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Preparations for the historic 30 July vote for a president and parliament constitute the largest and most complex UN electoral-assistance mission ever undertaken.

Report calls for new approach to reduce poverty in Nigeria

Tue, 18 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

The Niger Delta Human Development Report calls for a participatory and people-centred approach to development as the key to lifting the resource rich region out of poverty.

Réinsérer les groupes défavorisés au Congo

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Le PNUD et la Banque africaine de développement (BAD) viennent d'entamer un projet d'appui à la réinsertion socio-économique des groupes défavorisés dont bénéficieront 50 000 Congolais au cours des années a venir.

Renewable energy project in Botswana

Thu, 13 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

In a bid to promote clean energy use and reduce green house gases and the emission of carbon dioxide, UNDP in collaboration with the Government of Botswana and the Botswana Power Corporation, are launching a project aimed at assisting Botswana's rural communities.

Enhanced public service delivery in Southern Africa

Fri, 07 Jul 2006 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP's South Africa Capacity Initiative (SACI) is helping the sub-region to provide fast and efficient public services.

Conférence diamants pour le développement

Fri, 30 Jun 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Comment l'industrie extractive peut-elle servir à réduire la pauvreté, alimenter l'économie et promouvoir la paix dans quatre pays d'Afrique de l'Ouest?

CNN's Femi Oke returns to Liberia inspired by UNDP's work

Fri, 16 Jun 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Liberian journalists need a new attitude toward their practice, one which highlights development issues and helps to undergird the peace process. This was the challenge put forth by CNN Inside Africa host Femi Oke and CNN producer Bill Burke at a media forum arranged by UNDP Liberia.

Peer Review gains steam at Africa Governance Forum

Thu, 11 May 2006 04:00:00 GMT

The Sixth Africa Governance Forum ended here today with a dialogue between President Paul Kagame of Rwanda, President Blaise Compaore of Burkina Faso and delegates, who reaffirmed African ownership, management and leadership of the African Peer Review Mechanism while recommending key improvements.

Actor Matt Damon visits UNDP/UNV microfinance project in Chongwe

Wed, 10 May 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Matt Damon was in Zambia on a five-day field trip organized by DATA (Debt, AIDS, Trade, Africa), an advocacy organization co-founded by U2 lead singer and social activist Bono.

United Nations and AMIS join forces to train African Union personnel in Darfur

Mon, 01 May 2006 04:00:00 GMT

To help the African Union carry out its protection mandate in Darfur, the United Nations Development Programme together with other UN agencies and the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS), has launched a comprehensive training programme that will strengthen the capacities of all members of the 7300-strong protection force and help restore the rule of law in Darfur.

Japan steps up contribution to UNDP operations in Africa

Thu, 27 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

In 2005, Japan was the fifth-largest contributor to UNDP regular resources after the Netherlands, Norway, the U.S., and Sweden.

Benin: Appui et renforcement des capacités locales pour le programme "faire reculer le Paludisme"

Tue, 25 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Newly Elected Parliaments in Post-Conflict Countries Need More Support

Fri, 21 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

More than 100 donors and parliamentarians announced their support for new UNDP guidelines designed to boost the vital role of parliamentarians in building peace and preventing crises around the world.

Benin: Support and local capacity building

Thu, 06 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Partnership with the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria

Burundi: Moving Beyond Transitional Government

Thu, 06 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Global Experience In Supporting Governments (2004-05)

Togo: Strengthening the National Response to HIV/AIDS

Thu, 06 Apr 2006 04:00:00 GMT

Partnership with the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, TB and Malaria

Japan and UNDP sign agreement to reintegrate former child soldiers

Fri, 17 Mar 2006 05:00:00 GMT

The Government of Japan and UNDP signed a US$2 million agreement to support an African Union plan to demobilize, disarm, rehabilitate and reintegrate young ex-combatants in the war-torn Great Lakes region of Africa.

Infrastructure must work for the poor, Sen says

Wed, 08 Mar 2006 05:00:00 GMT

Nobel Laureate Professor Amartya Sen emphasized the links between infrastructure and poverty at the launch of 'Making Infrastructure Work for the Poor,' a new report by UNDP and the Government of Japan.

Programme Brings Peace Dividends to Rural Sudan

Thu, 02 Mar 2006 05:00:00 GMT

The European Commission, the Government of National Unity, the Government of South Sudan and the UNDP announced an agreement on the 10 NGO consortia entrusted with leading the four-year, € 50 million Recovery and Rehabilitation Programme.

UNDP regional workshop aims to accelerate Africa's progress

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 05:00:00 GMT

Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania A training workshop, which kicked off today, seeks to boost the capacities of African governments to move their countries more quickly towards meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

UNDP and World Bank agree to "raise their game" in Africa

Thu, 16 Feb 2006 05:00:00 GMT

The UNDP and the Africa Region of the World Bank held a retreat on ways to improve collaboration when they met in South Africa last week.

Annan Appoints Gilbert Houngbo of Togo Head of UNDP'S Africa Bureau

Thu, 29 Dec 2005 05:00:00 GMT

UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan has appointed Gilbert Fossoun Houngbo of Togo as Assistant Secretary-General, Assistant Administrator of the United Nations Development Programme and Director of UNDP's Regional Bureau for Africa.

New Police Academy Opens in Somalia

Tue, 20 Dec 2005 05:00:00 GMT

The first police academy to be built in Somalia in several years officially opened in the northeast region.

Tanzania to receive mobile phones from UNDP and Ericsson

Mon, 21 Nov 2005 05:00:00 GMT

Tanzania will be the first country to receive more mobile phone service under a new partnership between UNDP and Ericsson.

Tanzania to receive mobile phones from UNDP and Ericsson

Mon, 21 Nov 2005 05:00:00 GMT

21 November 2005Tanzania will be the first country to receive more mobile phone service under a new partnership between UNDP and Ericsson.

UN and Government Launch Early Recovery Plan Ahead of Donor's Meet

Fri, 18 Nov 2005 05:00:00 GMT

Thai success stories for halting and reversing the spread of HIV/AIDS in the Kingdom were shared in a Thailand-Africa consultation workshop in Botswana.

Japanese government contributes more than US$6 million to Sudan

Wed, 16 Nov 2005 05:00:00 GMT

The Government of Japan made the contribution to a programme that aims to achieve the disarmament and demobilization of child and women soldiers in Sudan.

Dervis Praises Nigeria's Role as Regional Leader, Promises Support for Reform Efforts

Tue, 11 Oct 2005 04:00:00 GMT

UNDP Administrator Kemal Derviş met with Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo here today to voice support for the Nigerian government's internal reform efforts and its growing regional leadership role, including its critical contribution to today's successful elections in Liberia and its participation in UN peacekeeping missions elsewhere in Africa.

African child deaths could reach 5 million by 2015, warns UNDP expert in Berlin forum

Thu, 09 Jun 2005 04:00:00 GMT

If the Millennium Development Goal of cutting child mortality by two thirds until 2015 is met, the number of deaths would be cut to 2 million, according to a new statistical analysis by UNDP's Human Development Report Office.

Guinea-Bissau: Clearing Landmines

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 05:00:00 GMT

At the end of the war, in 2000, the government of Guinea-Bissau asked UNDP for assistance to remove landmines, and UNDP, with assistance from Canada, the European Union, Germany, the Netherlands and the US, a National Centre for Coordinating Mine Action Activities was established.

Choosing Development Over Guns in Sierra Leone

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 05:00:00 GMT

The war may be officially over now, but Sierra Leone is still awash in guns and weaponry. For the people of the region, who are still coming to terms with the bitter memories of the conflict, life is returning to normal.

Rwanda's Parliament Now Leads World in Gender Parity

Wed, 01 Dec 2004 05:00:00 GMT

Rwanda, the tiny tea and coffee-producing country in Central Africa, known to most of the outside world as the place where one million people lost their lives in a genocide in 1994, has now surpassed Sweden as the country with the highest proportion of women legislators.

Urban Youth Inspired to Fight HIV/AIDS in Tanzania

Wed, 01 Sep 2004 04:00:00 GMT

ISHI (meaning "live" in Swahili), launched in 2001 is probably Tanzania's most successful HIV/AIDS campaign aimed at youth. It began as a one-day event for World AIDS Day when the Tanzania Commission for HIV/AIDS, with support from the Johns Hopkins University and in collaboration with USAID, decided to organize a series of sports-centred awareness activities on HIV/AIDS for the youth.

Migrants near dinder park balance livelihoods and ecosystems

Mon, 01 Sep 2003 04:00:00 GMT

The Global Environment Facility and UNDP are working with communities along the boundaries of Sudan's Dinder National Park to find ways to meet people's needs without endangering the grounds.

Microcredit at work

Sun, 01 Jun 2003 04:00:00 GMT

The microcredit idea is simple. A small loan, with an interest rate that is often higher than the going rate, but lower than the money-lender rate, is used to help people who cannot secure credit to set up a small business that generates profits. When the loan is repaid, the borrower becomes eligible for a larger loan that helps expand the enterprise. The proceeds from the interest increase the pool of funds that are available to provide loans to more people.