The Independent Societal Watch Advocates (ISWA), a prominent civil society organization, has lauded the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment (LACE) for its remarkable progress in implementing community-driven development projects across Liberia.
At a press conference held on May 5, 2025, ISWA’s Executive Director praised the current leadership of LACE, headed by Hon. Julius K. Sele, for its impactful initiatives, especially in rural areas. The group highlighted the importance of acknowledging government institutions that are making tangible differences in the lives of ordinary Liberians.
“Distinguished members of the press, fellow Liberians, we gather here today to commend the LACE administration under the leadership of Hon. Julius K. Sele for the countless developmental projects being implemented in both rural and urban communities,” said the ISWA Executive Director.
The CSO revealed that it had conducted multiple assessments of LACE’s performance indicators and found the agency to be performing exceptionally well under its current management.
Among the highlighted achievements is the ongoing construction of the Dukpuyee Town Public School in Dukuyee Township, Nimba County. Once completed, the school is expected to benefit over 20,000 school-aged children in the region.
ISWA emphasized that such infrastructure projects are vital to the country’s educational advancement and are a testament to LACE’s commitment to rural development.
“In addition to the school project, we also carried out an evaluation of an ongoing joint initiative currently being constructed by both the Government of Liberia and ArcelorMittal in Grand Bassa County. This health project, when completed, will significantly improve access to healthcare services for residents of the area,” the group noted.
The CSO further disclosed that it had dispatched a team to Montserrado County to assess a project currently underway in the Todee District. ISWA confirmed that the development has been completed 100% and holds great promise for enhancing local livelihoods.
ISWA concluded by calling on citizens to take ownership of these government projects by ensuring their maintenance and sustainability. “While we commend LACE’s efforts, we also urge communities to protect and sustain these initiatives. The success of any development project lies not only in its implementation but also in its upkeep by the beneficiaries,” the statement concluded.
