EU, UNDP and Youth Innovators Spotlight Climate Action and Youth-Led Solutions in Liberia

January 29, 2026
Person presenting with microphone in a classroom; projection screen shows mountains.

Emergi Liberia Founder, Elvis T. Thomas

The European Union (EU), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and youth innovators, continues to advance climate action, youth empowerment, and sustainable development in Liberia. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment to addressing climate challenges through inclusive, locally driven solutions that position young people as leaders of change. 

These priorities were underscored during a joint engagement featuring Emergi Liberia, a women-led e-mobility and clean-energy startup supported through UNDP’s Youth4Climate initiative. The enterprise is driving climate-smart innovation through electric “e-kekeh” transport, solar-powered charging infrastructure, and skills development for young women—promoting greener urban mobility while expanding economic opportunities. 

Speaking at the event, European Union Ambassodor to Liberia, Ms. Nona Deprez, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to partnerships that elevate youth-led climate solutions.

“The European Union remains committed to supporting climate action that empowers young people and women as drivers of innovation. Initiatives like Emergi Liberia demonstrate how youth-led solutions can advance sustainable development while creating economic opportunities and building resilient communities.” 

The engagement also showcased Generation Trust: A Global Climate Story in the Making, a documentary produced under Youth4Climate—an initiative co-led by UNDP and the Italian Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security. The film follows five young leaders implementing practical climate solutions across Liberia, Uganda, Bolivia, Colombia, and Pakistan, spanning sectors from clean mobility to the circular economy. 

The UNDP Liberia Resident Representative, Mr. Aliou Dia, emphasized the importance of trust, inclusion, and youth leadership in accelerating climate progress.

“Climate action is most effective when young people are not only consulted but trusted to lead. Through Youth4Climate, UNDP is supporting bold, locally driven solutions that address climate challenges while expanding opportunities for innovation, inclusion, and sustainable development.” 

Representing youth-led enterprise, Emergi Liberia Founder, Mr. Elvis T. Thomas, highlighted the critical role of women and youth in shaping a sustainable future.

“Emergi Liberia was founded on the belief that women and youth must be at the forefront of climate solutions. With support from UNDP and partners, we are proving that clean mobility can reduce emissions, create jobs, and transform communities—starting here in Liberia.” 

Aligned with the EU’s strategic priorities and Emergi Liberia’s mission, the engagement sought to amplify youth voices, celebrate innovation, and strengthen partnerships that accelerate sustainable development outcomes across Liberia. 

UNDP Liberia remains committed to collaborating with development partners, government institutions, and youth-led enterprises to scale climate solutions, empower young people—particularly women—and ensure that climate action delivers inclusive growth and long-term resilience.