23 Nov
2011
66TH EDITION OF THE UNITED NATIONS DAY: A REMARKABLE PARTICIPATION OF UNOCA
All United Nations Agencies and Missions in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, celebrated the 66th edition of the United Nations Day.
Monday, October 24, 2011, all United Nations Agencies and Missions in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, celebrated the 66th edition of the United Nations Day under the theme: "Gabon in the heart of the UN action: HIV / AIDS and Sustainable Development ".
All the ceremonies took place in the premises of that Ministry, under the chairmanship of Mr. Paul Bunduku-Latha, Minister Delegate to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Francophonie. He was accompanied by Ms. Claudine Minvoul, Minister Delegate for Health, Social Affairs, Solidarity and the Family, and Mr. Raphael Ngazouze, second Minister Delegate to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and the Francophonie.
The opening ceremony was marked by the lifting-up of United Nations flag, followed by the address of the Resident Coordinator of United Nations system, Mr. Nadir Hadj-Hammou, and the speech of the Minister Paul-Bunduku Latha.Thereafter, the public attended the broadcast of documentary outlining actions of the United Nations system in Gabon during the 2012-2016 strategic period.
Visit of the stands
The other highlight of the day was the visit of the stands. The Minister Mr Paul Bunduku-Latha, was welcomed at UNOCA stand by the Public Information Officer who seized the opportunity to renew thanks of the Special Representative of the Secretary General to the Gabonese government for the support and facilities provided to the Regional Office and all UN agencies in Gabon.
The minister and his delegation were also briefed on the mandate and missions of UNOCA, whose stand was very much appreciated due, amongst others, to the presence of several kakemonos and banners.
The public was also impressed and curious. Many questions asked by visitors were related to the mandate, the mission of UNOCA, its location, the Office's position towards recent topics (elections in Cameroon, the DRC oncoming presidential election, introduction of biometrics in the electoral process in Gabon, etc.), internships and jobs opportunities, etc....
A symbolic march was also held with the participation of the above mentioned Ministers, and representatives of UN agencies, including UNOCA. The manifestations were closed by a cocktail.
The staffs of various UN agencies have played extra time in the evening during a dinner at UNDP city-base. A convivial and relaxed moment which helped to strengthen links between colleagues and to raise awareness of the UNOCA, which was strongly represented.