Internal Affairs Minister Francis Sakela Nyumalin convened with USAID Mission Director Jim Wright and key stakeholders to discuss ongoing development initiatives in Liberia. According to a release dated Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the meeting underscored the fruitful collaboration between the Ministry and USAID and highlighted areas of concern that need urgent attention. Minister Nyumalin opened the session by expressing gratitude for the substantial contributions made by USAID and other partners towards Liberia’s development.
He acknowledged the critical role these contributions play in enhancing the country’s governance, infrastructure, and service delivery, particularly through the establishment of the Ministry of Local Government and the County Council.
However, the Minister did not shy away from addressing pressing issues, notably the lack of participation from local leaders, including the County Superintendent, in scheduled programs organized by USAID.
This absence has raised alarms within the U.S. Embassy, which has expressed concern over the potential implications for ongoing and future projects, particularly those in Foya and Zorzor, Lofa County. Minister Nyumalin said it’s important to collaborate at all levels of government to ensure the success of USAID initiatives and other development projects.
He urged local leaders to actively engage in these programs, stating, “For these initiatives to yield the desired results, local government officials must be present and involved in the planning and execution stages.”
The meeting also touched on establishing the Fiscal Board and the funding of County Service Centers, which are critical for enhancing local governance and service delivery. The Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering a conducive environment for collaboration and urged all stakeholders to work together to address the challenges faced in executing these vital projects.
As the meeting concluded, Minister Nyumalin called for coordination to ensure that local governance structures are strengthened and that the voices of county leaders are heard in the development process. “Let us move forward together, ensuring that every stakeholder plays their part in building a better Liberia,” he concluded.
The discussions set the stage for a more collaborative approach moving forward, with hopes of revitalizing engagement between local leaders and international partners to enhance the effectiveness of development initiatives across the country.
