Liberia’s National Land Governance Under Scrutiny as MAP Liberia Hosts Reform Forum
MAP Liberia is hosting a two-day roundtable in Monrovia to examine and reform land administration in the country. Key stakeholders from multiple sectors are discussing achievements and challenges for actionable reforms in land governance. The focus is on translating policy discussions into real-life advantages for local communities, ensuring sustainability, and addressing existing inequalities in land rights and usage.
Monrovia – The Multi-Actor Platform on Land Governance and Responsible Agricultural Investment in Liberia (commonly referred to as MAP Liberia) is hosting a crucial two-day roundtable aimed at addressing land administration issues in the country. Key players from various sectors—including government, NGOs, and local communities—gathered to discuss past successes and tackle the mounting challenges in land governance.
This forum is more than just a standard conference. It represents a significant opportunity for Liberia’s land sector stakeholders to move beyond mere discussion, and into practical actions that could benefit local communities. “We must always take stock of what we are doing as land actors,” said Ms. Julie Weah, the Executive Director of FGGDI and Co-convener of the MAP Steering Committee. “Land governance is in the middle — and we must take it higher.”
Julie Weah underscored the importance of making tangible impacts in the communities affected by land policies. Various representatives from national institutions such as the Ministry of Agriculture and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), have joined voices with civil society groups like ActionAid Liberia and Landesa, to highlight sustainable land governance as an essential part of Liberia’s development plan.
Sam Lamine, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, pushed for a shift in land policy that he believes is necessary for agricultural expansion. He stated pointedly, “Without land development, we cannot do anything in agriculture. Next year, when we come back, we must have results to show.”
Nuoh Harris from ActionAid Liberia emphasized the importance of unity among stakeholders, urging stronger cooperation and accountability, particularly regarding policy implementation. “We must re-evaluate our recommendations and align them with how we implement and monitor progress,” he said, reaffirming a commitment to protecting land rights, especially for women involved in agroecology.
The roundtable in Monrovia marks a pivotal moment for land governance in Liberia. Stakeholders have voiced a consensus: reforms are necessary to ensure inclusivity and effective land management. With calls for increased investment and policy clarity, the forum reaffirms the dire connection between land rights, agricultural success, and community wellbeing. As highlighted by various representatives, engaging rural communities and ensuring their voices are heard remains paramount for fostering sustainable development in the country.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
