A UNICEF press release dated 8 September 2026 reported that the Government of Liberia, the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China and UNICEF had launched a US $3 million project supported by the Global Development and South-South Cooperation Fund. The project, “Enhancing Child Nutrition in Liberia’s First 1,000 Days Through Health and Nutrition Services,” was described as covering nutrition, maternal and newborn health and essential services from pregnancy to a child’s second birthday.

Planned activities included training health workers, social workers and community health workers; procuring and distributing iron and folic acid supplements, ready-to-use therapeutic food and micronutrient powders; equipping neonatal intensive care units; and community work on infant feeding counselling, breastfeeding promotion and hygiene supplies.

At the launch, UNICEF Representative Andrew Brooks cited neonatal mortality of 37 deaths per 1,000 live births in Liberia, describing the figure as stagnant over the years, and linked water contamination to under-five mortality. Chinese Ambassador Yin Chengwu reaffirmed China’s support for Liberia’s development priorities. Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Ibrahim Al-bakir Nyei welcomed the partnership, according to the release.