By Grace Q. Bryant
The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has introduced a new land deed form with enhanced security features as part of a broader effort to combat illegal land sales and restore confidence in the country’s land governance system.
The announcement was made by newly appointed LLA Chairman, Samuel F. Kpakio, during a press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism on March 20, 2024.
Kpakio revealed that LLA staff, with support from Swiss partners, has undergone specialized training in land deed verification, a process that will be decentralized to county offices nationwide.
“This initiative is a significant step toward ensuring transparency and eliminating fraudulent land transactions. We are advancing reforms under my leadership to guarantee that all land dealings are conducted lawfully and with accountability,” he said.
As part of its crackdown on illegal land transactions, the LLA has placed a moratorium on public land sales in Omega, Hotel Africa, and parts of Montserrado County.
Kpakio directed all individuals holding development grant deeds in these areas to submit copies to the LLA headquarters for verification by March 31, 2025.
“This measure is necessary to protect landowners and prevent illegal sales in these high-risk zones,” he added.
To address Liberia’s longstanding land conflicts, the LLA is introducing specialized units to streamline dispute resolution.
The Legal Division will be strengthened to tackle fraudulent transactions and criminal conveyance, while a newly established Compliance Unit will ensure that all land dealings adhere to legal standards.
“We are committed to ensuring that land disputes are resolved fairly and efficiently,” Kpakio stated.
In collaboration with the LRA, the LLA is piloting a land valuation system in three counties under the Real Estate Valuation Subware and Act Projects.
The initiative aims to provide accurate property assessments and increase government revenue through fair taxation.
“This aligns with President Joseph Boakai’s agenda to create jobs, particularly for young people trained through the President’s Digital Program,” Kpakio said.
In a bid to enhance transparency, the LLA has requested audits from the General Auditing Commission (GAC) and the Internal Audit Agency (IAA) to assess current systems and identify areas for improvement.
The Authority is implementing a land title verification system with advanced security features to eliminate double registrations and fraudulent claims.
“We are setting a clear baseline for reforms that will ensure responsible and transparent land management,” Kpakio emphasized.
Chairman Kpakio concluded by reaffirming that the LLA’s reforms go beyond administrative changes—they represent a renewal of Liberia’s land governance framework.
“This is not just about reform; it is about renewal. We are committed to making the Liberia Land Authority a model of transparency and fairness, ensuring that all citizens can securely own, trade, and exercise their land rights,” he said.
