Sanniquellie, Nimba County, Liberia — As part of efforts aimed at crafting a comprehensive National Development Plan, the Liberian government convened a consultative meeting in Nimba County on Monday, August 12.
The event, attended by local leaders, and representatives from various sectors, marks a critical step in ensuring that the diverse voices of Liberians, especially the ones from Nimba are incorporated into the country’s long-term development strategy, known as the ARREST Agenda for inclusive development.
The consultation, taking place at the Sanniquellie City Hall, in Nimba County, attracted over several participants, including civil society organizations, students from Nimba University, women’s groups, youth representatives, and local government officials.
It serves as a platform for citizens to express their aspirations, concerns, and ideas on how to address pressing developmental challenges facing their districts and the county at large.
Giving an overview, the Team Lead of the Nimba and Grand Gedeh Counties consultations, Sedeke Kamara of the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, said the government of Liberia is trying to move away from the time past when the decisions were made in Monrovia.
“As we told you earlier, we are moving away from where the people in Monrovia will sit and plan for the rest of the country”, Kamara said.
In a brief statement, Nimba County Development Superintendent Peter Karngbaye urged the delegates to discuss positive things that will support the growth and development of Nimba County and Liberia at large.
“Regarding this consultation and security, let us discuss positive things that will support the growth and development of Nimba County and Liberia at large.”
Consultant M. Nathaniel Barnes said that the ongoing development plan consultation is intended to reflect the needs and aspirations of the people of Liberia. “Today, we are here to listen to you and work together to enhance what you want towards a vibrant future for Liberia.” Consultant Barnes noted.
Representing the development partners was Odaphus M. Dahn, of the UNDP, who expressed delight with the ongoing National Development Plan consultation across the country.
Mr. Dahn said the UNDP's role as an observer is to ensure that the government has an inclusive development agenda and the attendance of participants means a lot, adding that because of the people the UNDP is observing the process.
Pressing issues coming from the ongoing consultation include Education, Health, Roads, and Agriculture, and tackling drug addiction and Infrastructure among others.
The consultation underscored the importance of grassroots involvement in the formulation of the National Development Plan. Participants also engaged in group discussions.
The feedback from these sessions (Monday & Tuesday), will directly inform the policy framework, ensuring that it is not only top-down but also driven by the realities and needs of communities across Liberia.