The Assistant Minister for Technical Services at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, Orando Armah, alongside the UNDP Liberia Resident Representative, Aliou Dia, has been actively visiting project sites across Lofa, Bong, and Nimba Counties. The ongoing efforts aim to engage Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in meaningful dialogue focused on community empowerment and sustainable development.

During a recent visit to Voinjama, discussions with local CSOs centered on critical issues such as the empowerment of women, youth, and People with Disabilities. Key topics included addressing Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), legal aid support, the establishment of safe homes, as well as capacity development in areas such as health, agriculture, education, and tourism. The conversation also highlighted the importance of sustainability, logistical support, monitoring and evaluation systems, media development, and enhancing access to job opportunities.

The leadership of CSOs in Voinjama expressed a strong desire for the UNDP to provide them with the necessary tools and resources to effectively monitor and engage with local government initiatives, particularly as they work towards implementing the County Development Agenda (CDA). This collaborative approach emphasizes the importance of community involvement in governance and development processes.

The delegation also visited the Tenth Judicial Circuit Court in Voinjama and the Liberia National Police facilities in Zorzor, reinforcing the commitment to strengthening legal and security frameworks within the region.

In Salayea, Lofa County, the team explored the forest management initiatives supported by the Community Based Forest Management (CBFM) Project, a joint initiative of UNDP Liberia and FAO Liberia, funded by the Embassy of Sweden in Monrovia. This project plays a crucial role in promoting forest governance and conservation by assisting communities in applying for community forest status from the Forestry Development Authority.

Currently, the demarcation of over 8,000 hectares of land in Salayea is underway, with the project aiming to enhance biodiversity conservation while providing alternative livelihoods for forest-dependent communities. By doing so, the initiative seeks to mitigate threats to forest ecosystems and promote sustainable community development.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs remains committed to fostering partnerships and empowering communities across Liberia to achieve sustainable development goals. The engagement with CSOs and local stakeholders is a vital step towards enhancing governance, promoting social justice, and ensuring that all citizens have a voice in shaping their futures.