The Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL), in partnership with Naymote Partners for Democratic Development and the Center for Democratic Governance (CDG), has intensified efforts to promote accountability, decentralization, and improved service delivery across Bong, Margibi, and Grand Bassa Counties. These initiatives are being implemented under the “Strengthening Political Governance and Accountability in Liberia” project, with support from the Embassy of Ireland in Liberia.
Speaking about the ongoing project, CENTAL’s Executive Director, Mr. Anderson D. Miamen, expressed gratitude to the Embassy of Ireland for its sustained partnership and financial support. He noted that the three-year agreement signed in 2024 has created opportunities for civil society organizations to decentralize their operations and strengthen engagements with national and local stakeholders. “We are excited that the partnership is allowing us to deepen our engagement with communities and local authorities,” Mr. Miamen said. “Our goal is to end impunity for corruption, foster good governance, enhance service delivery in health and education, and empower civil society, the media, and local structures to play their roles effectively.”
Over the past several months, CENTAL and its partners have undertaken a series of activities, including advocacy meetings, anti-corruption workshops, and performance tracking sessions with County Councils and County Service Centers in the three counties. The organizations have also facilitated independent dialogues to boost coordination among local actors and encouraged citizens to take active roles in demanding accountability from their leaders. Mr. Miamen highlighted that the team has been engaging local authorities to ensure transparent, inclusive, and informed decision-making regarding the use of County Social Development Funds and other public resources aligned with County Development Agendas.
Media institutions have also played a critical role in disseminating information on issues such as anti-corruption, decentralization, and revenue management, helping to build awareness and civic participation. The initiatives have already yielded tangible outcomes. Citizens’ knowledge about decentralization, anti-corruption, and local governance has increased significantly. The engagements have strengthened collaboration and communication between citizens and county officials, enabling communities to better monitor the use of public funds and hold leaders accountable. According to CENTAL, more citizens and civil society actors are now standing up to challenge actions and decisions that undermine public interest.
This growing civic consciousness is contributing to enhanced transparency and better management of public resources at the local level. Mr. Miamen stressed that direct funding and partnerships such as the one with the Embassy of Ireland are crucial for Liberian civil society organizations to build institutional capacity, strengthen governance systems, and expand the impact of their work. “Once again, we extend our deepest appreciation to the Embassy of Ireland in Liberia for their continued support and partnership,” he concluded.
“We also thank all national and local stakeholders who have joined hands with us in advancing accountability, good governance, decentralization, and improved public service delivery.” The Embassy of Ireland reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Liberia’s governance and development agenda, emphasizing that transparency, decentralization, and citizen participation remain central pillars for achieving sustainable growth and inclusive governance.
Author: Zac T. Sherman
