Africa-Press – Liberia. The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) launched a new Civil Society Activity that will support stronger collaboration between civil society organizations (CSOs), the Government of Liberia, and local Liberians to advocate for citizen-driven reforms.
Partnering with Naymote Partners for Democratic Development, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), and Accountability Lab Liberia, the Civil Society Activity will seize opportunities for positive change through civil society advocacy on issues that Liberians themselves identify as priorities.
Steve Terrevecchia, from USAID’s implementing partner on this program, Development Alternatives Incorporated, highlighted the importance of CSOs in uncovering the root causes of development issues and transforming these concerns into effective advocacy.
Speaking during the launch, Ambassador Michael McCarthy said, “I am proud of the history of support the United States Government has provided to CSOs that are strengthening Liberia’s democratic institutions by advocating for policy reforms across diverse sectors.”
Minister of Internal Affairs Varney Sirleaf, reflecting his commitment to support for the program, indicated that by working collaboratively with civil society and promoting transparency, we can collectively combat corruption in Liberia.
Loretta Alethea Pope Kai, chair of the Civil Society Activity Advisory Council, and representatives from Naymote, CENTAL, and Accountability Lab also spoke to the need for civil society to constructively engage with the government on issues of local and national concern, and for CSOs to be accountable to the citizens on whose behalf they are advocating.
In a separate meeting with the members of the press, Ambassador McCarthy highlighted two important aspects of civil society that will benefit all Liberians. First, he commended the vibrant local media for the necessary work they are doing to promote transparent and accountable governance. He urged them to make this a priority in their reporting.
Ambassador McCarthy also spoke about the importance of a welcoming environment for foreign investment in Liberia to create jobs and generate revenue for development. Responding to a question about how he would measure the success of his tenure in Liberia, he said that he hopes the progress made on this front will be his legacy. He noted that working alongside CSOs like those involved in USAID’s newly launched program will be essential to decreasing the corruption that keeps away foreign investors, preventing Liberians from benefiting from the jobs and revenue they would bring to the country.
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