IPNEWS: – The Ministry of Local Government (MLG) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening decentralization, local governance, and service delivery across Liberia through a renewed strategic partnership aimed at improving the lives of citizens at the local and sub-local levels.
During a high-level courtesy meeting held in Monrovia, UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Mamadu Dia and the Minister of Local Government, Hon. F. Sakila Nyumalin, held productive discussions on advancing Liberia’s decentralization agenda, enhancing local governance systems, improving public service delivery, and promoting sustainable community development.
Speaking during the meeting, Mr. Dia commended Minister Nyumalin for his leadership and commitment to deepening decentralization through the modernization of County Service Centers, strengthening peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts, and promoting inclusive governance throughout Liberia.
“Strengthening decentralization is critical to bringing government services closer to the people and ensuring more efficient and accountable service delivery,” Mr. Dia said. “UNDP remains committed to supporting initiatives that modernize County Service Centers, expand digital governance systems, and strengthen community development mechanisms across Liberia.”
The discussions highlighted the achievements of the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP), which has played a significant role in advancing community-led development. Mr. Dia further emphasized the importance of transforming County Development Agendas into comprehensive County Investment Plans to promote sustainable and targeted local economic growth.
The meeting also explored opportunities to strengthen peace and reconciliation initiatives, including support for the establishment of a National Museum of Liberia to preserve and showcase the nation’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Looking ahead, Mr. Dia announced UNDP’s intention to facilitate a learning mission to South Africa and Rwanda to explore best practices for establishing and managing national museums.
“I want to leave a tangible legacy in Liberia,” Mr. Dia stated. “Our partnership should continue to generate lasting benefits for the Liberian people. A National Museum is important for preserving our collective history and strengthening national identity for future generations.”
Minister Nyumalin expressed appreciation for UNDP’s longstanding partnership and support to Liberia’s decentralization and governance reforms. He acknowledged existing challenges, including infrastructure gaps and institutional capacity constraints, and outlined several key government priorities.
Among the initiatives presented were:
- One-Stop-Shop Service Centers-The Ministry has developed plans for modern, 32-room One-Stop-Shop Service Centers in Zwedru, Grand Bassa, and Lofa Counties. While the Government will undertake construction, support is being sought from UNDP for furniture, digital equipment, and electricity infrastructure.
- Local Government Training Institute- The Ministry is pursuing a partnership with UNDP and development partners to establish a Local Government Training Institute in Bong County, which will serve as a center of excellence for training local government officials and public servants.
- Modernized County Service Centers and County Treasuries- Plans are also underway to integrate County Treasuries into modernized County Service Centers in every county, while also providing office accommodations for UN personnel to strengthen coordination and service delivery.
Minister Nyumalin noted that these initiatives have received presidential approval and are expected to be implemented within the next two years.
In response, Mr. Dia reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to supporting the Ministry’s strategic priorities. He indicated that discussions would be initiated within the UN Country Team regarding the possibility of deploying a dedicated focal person to strengthen coordination and collaboration between UNDP and the Ministry.
“We will work closely with the Government of Liberia to advance these transformative initiatives,” Mr. Dia said. “Together, we can build a more resilient, decentralized, and inclusive governance system that delivers meaningful results for all Liberians.”
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing decentralization, strengthening local governance institutions, and ensuring inclusive, transparent, and sustainable development across Liberia.
