Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, in collaboration with the Ministry of Internal Affairs, has successfully concluded three impactful town hall meetings to enhance public participation in local governance.
Funded by the Embassy of Ireland in Liberia, the events brought together diverse stakeholders to foster transparency, inclusivity, and effective local decision-making.
The town hall meetings engaged 120 participants, including county administrators, council members, traditional leaders, chiefs, civil society representatives, media personnel, women and youth leaders, persons with disabilities, and security officials.
This initiative forms part of the broader project, Strengthening Political Governance and Accountability in Liberia, implemented by Naymote with funding from the Embassy of Ireland, alongside CENTAL and CDG.
According to a press release, the meetings focused on building awareness of the Local Government Act of 2018; a transformative law that decentralizes political, administrative, and financial power to counties and local government entities. Participants delved into the Act’s principles of citizen participation, resource management, and inclusivity, learning how it facilitates community-driven development and improved service delivery.
D. Emmanuel Wheinyue, Assistant Minister for Research and Development Planning at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, led the sessions. He provided comprehensive insights into the distinctions between central and local governments, the mandates of county councils, the roles of county administrators, and critical provisions under the Local Government Act, such as the County Service Centers and the Revenue Cost-Sharing Law. Participants received Frequently Asked Questions booklets to deepen their understanding of the Act.
Speaking during the gathering, Madam Loleyah Hawa Norris, Superintendent of Bong County, commended the initiative, stating:
“The creation of County Councils and the Revenue Cost-Sharing Law are groundbreaking steps for our government. This engagement has empowered us to educate citizens and local officials about the Act. We pledge to sustain these dialogues and enhance public understanding of governance at the local level.”
Also remarking at the meeting was Madam Victoria Wolubah Duncan, Superintendent of Margibi County, who noted:
“Naymote is making significant strides. By fully implementing the Local Government Act, we can empower our counties to become vibrant contributors to the national budget and advance decentralization policies.”
Thomas H. Davis, Acting Superintendent of Grand Bassa County, emphasized the meeting’s relevance, stating: “This engagement was vital for Bassa County. Many local authorities, including myself, lacked clarity on our roles under the Local Government Act. What we’ve learned today will strengthen our leadership and help us educate our communities. I hope for more of such initiatives.”
For her part, the Chairperson of the Grand Bassa County Council, Madam Nancy T. Bryant, highlighted the meeting’s transformative impact, pointing out, “This is the first time we’ve fully understood our roles as County Council members. With this knowledge, we can now create an action plan and prioritize the development of our county. Thank you, Naymote, for empowering us.”
Meanwhile the Executive Director of Naymote, Eddie D. Jarwolo, expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Ireland for their support, stating: “Strong and effective local governance is the bedrock of a democratic and prosperous nation.
By fostering creativity and innovation, county administrators can develop local solutions to local challenges, driving sustainable development. We urge the integration of the Local Government Act into the national curriculum to build a generation of informed citizens who can champion local development.”
The release concluded by noting, “The town hall meetings underscored the importance of decentralization in empowering local communities and bridging the gap between citizens and government. With continued collaboration and support, Liberia is making significant strides toward strengthening governance and promoting inclusive development”.