By Bill W. Cooper
Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti has expressed discontent over the government’s communication strategy and stressed the need for an open and systematic information-sharing strategy for public consumption.
Speaking during the ongoing three-day Cabinet retreat at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Minister Nyanti criticized the premature release of information on social media before official announcements are made by the government.
She also emphasized the importance of effective communication in advancing Liberia’s foreign policy objectives and enhancing its image abroad, precisely on the international stage, a move she said would help sell the government locally and internationally.
Minister Nyanti further that a well-coordinated and targeted communication strategy is essential for building strong relationships with other countries, attracting foreign investment, and promoting Liberia’s cultural and economic interests.
The Foreign Minister pointed out that discussions within the government should remain confidential until officially sanctioned by an authoritative official(s) of the government, thus highlighting the need for improved information management.
She stressed that the current approach undermines the government’s credibility and calls for an end to the practice of debating sensitive matters publicly before formal decisions are made, a strategy she said will also save the government from embarrassment and criticism.
One of the key areas that Minister Nyanti has identified for improvement is the government’s officials’ use of social media and other digital platforms to spread the government’s messages without any authorization or prior discussions and permission.
In addition to enhancing its digital communication efforts, Minister Nyanti has stressed the importance of traditional media in shaping public opinion and influencing decision-makers, calling for a more proactive approach to media relations, including regular briefings for journalists and the development of strong relationships with local and international media.
She believes that well-informed and engaged media can play a crucial role in promoting Liberia’s interests and countering negative narratives about the country and also emphasizes the need for a more coordinated and strategic approach to public diplomacy.
According to her, Liberia should also leverage its cultural and diplomatic assets to build relationships with other countries and promote its interests on the world stage with a call for officials to do away with the dissemination of sensitive information without authorization.
She at the same time calls for a revamp of the government’s communication strategy that reflects a growing recognition of the importance of effective communication in advancing Liberia’s interests on the international stage.
By leveraging digital platforms, engaging with traditional media, and prioritizing public diplomacy, Nyanti added that Liberia can enhance its global presence and promote its cultural and economic interests.
Minister Nyanti further that her vision for a more coordinated and strategic approach to communication is a positive step towards strengthening Liberia’s diplomatic engagement and enhancing its image abroad and locally.
