Accra, Ghana – Ms. LIHONG SHEN, Security Advisor and Representative of the United Nations Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS) for Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, paid an official visit to the Ghana Regional Office of the Africa Relief and Community Development (ARCD), where she met with the Ghana Regional Director, Mr. Omar Barry, to discuss humanitarian and development initiatives across Africa.

During the meeting, Mr. Barry provided an overview of ARCD’s mission, achievements, and expanding impact across the continent. He explained that ARCD is a humanitarian and development organization committed to restoring dignity and improving the lives of vulnerable communities in Africa. Through strategic interventions, the organization addresses the root causes of poverty while responding to urgent humanitarian needs.

Mr. Barry stated that ARCD’s work is built on six core pillars, which are divided into development and relief programs. These include the WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene), Health, Education, Livelihood Empowerment, Food and Nutrition, and Orphan Sponsorship Program. He noted that four of these are long-term development programs, while two focus on emergency humanitarian relief.

Ms. LIHONG SHEN commended ARCD for its commitment to sustainable development and humanitarian services. She expressed interest in the organization’s operational structure and asked about the scope of its programs and geographical reach.

Mr. Barry explained that ARCD coordinates its operations through five regional offices covering West Africa, East Africa, North Africa, Central Africa, and Southern Africa, enabling the organization to effectively implement projects and deliver humanitarian assistance these African regions.

The discussions also focused on opportunities for stronger collaboration in advancing humanitarian action, health support, community resilience, and sustainable development in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The visit reaffirmed the shared commitment of both parties to supporting vulnerable communities and strengthening partnerships that promote peace, security, and sustainable development throughout Africa.