By Linus Flomo
-Bassa
A groundbreaking anti-corruption advocacy training concluded successfully in Buchanan, marking a significant step in the fight for transparency and accountability across Liberia.
The participants at the two-day intensive session were drawn from various community groups engaged in discussions and capacity-building sessions aimed at strengthening grassroots efforts to combat corruption.
Organized by the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), in collaboration with Partners for Democratic Development (NAYMOTE) and the Center for Democratic Governance (CDG), the training brought together representatives from Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), youth and women’s groups, the disabled community, and media practitioners. Participants hailed from Bong, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties, underscoring the program’s broad regional impact.
With corruption remaining a persistent challenge in Liberia, the workshop sought to equip attendees with the necessary tools and knowledge to identify, report, and advocate against corrupt practices.
The training emphasized the importance of citizens’ involvement in fostering an environment of integrity and fairness in public service delivery.
“The workshop is meant to empower citizens to take the initiative in ensuring the best services are provided in their counties,” said Anderson Miamen, Executive Director of CENTAL. “It’s about demanding accountability from those in power and ensuring the integrity of public service delivery.”
Sessions covered key aspects of anti-corruption strategies, including how to track government spending, report incidents of corruption, and engage with local and national authorities to demand better governance.
One of the standout features of the training was its emphasis on dialogue and collaboration between government agencies, civil society groups, and community members.
This inclusive approach allowed for open discussions on the challenges of corruption and practical solutions to address them.
Alfred Karnley, a representative from the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), stressed the importance of public participation in the fight against corruption. “Citizens play a crucial role in ensuring accountability. Reporting corruption cases promptly is essential to creating a fairer society,” he stated, while also outlining the LACC’s ongoing initiatives to curb corruption
The training concluded with the development of concrete action plans designed to strengthen anti-corruption advocacy efforts across Liberia. Participants left with a renewed sense of commitment and practical strategies to implement in their respective communities.
