On June 29, 2025, the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) celebrated a historic milestone: 50 years of presence and partnership with Guinea-Bissau. The date was marked with a special ceremony on July, 1 at the Franco-Bissau-Guinean Cultural Center in Bissau, bringing together representatives from the government, development partners, civil society, youth groups, the private sector, and United Nations system collaborators.
Under the theme “50 Years, 50 Stories - Voices of Impact,” the event highlighted a half-century marked by achievements, overcoming challenges, and a continued commitment to sustainable human development in the country.
An event to celebrate, recognize, and inspire
The ceremony included moments of great symbolism. Young Guinean leaders led an intergenerational dialogue on the challenges and opportunities for the country's future, reinforcing the centrality of youth in the development agenda.
UNDP partners and beneficiaries gave voice to their life stories and transformations, sharing experiences that reflect the concrete impact of the initiatives supported over the years. The program also included the inauguration of the visual exhibition “Voices of Transformation,” composed of photographs and videos documenting the work carried out in various communities across the country.
Mutual recognition
In his opening speech, His Excellency, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Communities, underscored the importance of the long-standing partnership between UNDP and the Guinean State. Carlos Pinto Pereira highlighted:
"For five decades, UNDP has been an indispensable, strategic, and constant partner of the State of Guinea-Bissau. The first step, taken shortly after the proclamation of our independence, marked the formalization of the Cooperation Agreement between Guinea-Bissau and UNDP on June 29, 1975. Since then, UNDP has been a present and active partner at all key moments in our history, playing a central role in supporting the building of the State and the Nation."
UNDP Resident Representative Alessandra Casazza reaffirmed the organization's commitment to the country, emphasizing that putting people at the center of development action is—and will continue to be—the top priority.
"Fifty years ago, on June 29, 1975, UNDP and the Government signed an agreement that would lay the foundations for a partnership rooted in a common purpose and a vision for a better future. Today, we celebrate not only the passage of time, but the journey we have taken together—in times of hope and difficulty, progress and perseverance. We celebrate the people of Guinea-Bissau, whose resilience and determination have been the true engine of development.”
Half a century of impact
Since its establishment in 1975, UNDP has stood alongside Guinea-Bissau at key moments in its history. Working in areas such as democratic governance, institutional reforms, women's empowerment, environmental conservation, and community resilience, UNDP has contributed to strengthening national capacities and creating sustainable opportunities for thousands of people.
This journey has been based on solid partnerships, active listening, and a deep respect for national sovereignty.
As it completes five decades of work in the country, UNDP renews its commitment to the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), remaining a strategic ally of Guinea-Bissau in building innovative and inclusive solutions for the Guinean people, especially women, young people, and those in vulnerable situations.

The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Guinea-Bissau, focused on promoting social justice, access to health, and community empowerment.
UNDP supports actions to promote access to justice throughout the country, bringing legal and civil registration services to populations in remote regions, with a special focus on women, young people, and people with disabilities. In collaboration with national institutions and civil society organizations, these initiatives contribute to ensuring that all citizens can fully exercise their rights.
In the area of health, UNDP works closely with the Ministry of Health and international partners to combat malaria. Actions include prevention campaigns, free testing and treatment, as well as strengthening the health system with improvements in logistics, infrastructure, and community health services.
UNDP also promotes access to sustainable energy as a tool for inclusion and development. Projects focusing on gender equality have been empowering women in rural communities, promoting their economic autonomy and contributing to the fight against energy poverty, climate resilience, and environmental preservation.
Key figures:
4,000 people benefited from mobile justice services in five regions of the country.
3,288 new birth registrations.
4.4 million mosquito nets distributed.
3.5 million malaria tests carried out.
1.1 million cases of malaria treated.
Reduction in malaria prevalence from 6% to 3%.
1,500 female-headed households benefited from access to solar energy and economic opportunities.
As we look to the future, we envision a Guinea-Bissau where every child has access to education, where no woman lives in fear, and where all communities have clean water, reliable energy, and real opportunities for development.
We see a country that has achieved the Sustainable Development Goals, where institutions function transparently and effectively, women lead with equality, and prosperity is felt by all.
This vision is not a dream. It is an achievable goal—if we maintain our collective commitment, the courage to innovate, and the conviction that no one should be left behind.
Fifty years ago, this journey began with a common purpose. Today, we celebrate all that has been built. And tomorrow, we will continue together — with the same spirit, the same determination, and a renewed commitment to the future of Guinea-Bissau.