The World Bank Liberia Country Manager, Georgia Wallen, has urged members of the Publishers Association of Liberia (PAL) to remain committed to their values, invest in the next generation of journalists, and embrace their critical role in shaping Liberia’s national narrative. Madam Wallen gave the charge at the induction ceremony of newly elected officials of the Publishers Association, held in Monrovia, where she represented the World Bank as guest speaker.
She described the event as a “unique occasion” that recognizes the indispensable role of publishers and the media in fostering Liberia’s development. During her remarks, the World Bank Country Manager outlined three central points she believed were crucial for the success of the Association and the media sector at large.
Madam Wallen reminded publishers that the Association’s guiding values excellence, dedication, integrity, and community must serve as anchors in today’s rapidly changing media landscape. She observed that from traditional print journalism to digital platforms, publishers are at the frontline of navigating new trends and responsibilities. “As newly inducted officials, you are uniquely positioned to lead and contribute to the ongoing success of Liberia’s publishing field,” she said. “Your commitment to values will help strengthen collaboration, foster innovation, and sustain professionalism within the sector.”
Highlighting Liberia’s youthful population, with over 75 percent of citizens under the age of 35 according to UNFPA, Wallen stressed the importance of mentoring and grooming the next generation of media professionals. She described the growing number of young journalists, photographers, and videographers as a unique strength that must be nurtured. “Investing in young journalists will not only secure the future of the media but also help cultivate a strong culture of excellence and truth-telling,” Wallen emphasized. She called on senior publishers to dedicate time and resources to support and mentor younger colleagues to ensure the sustainability of the sector.
The World Bank official further reminded the media of their profound responsibility in shaping Liberia’s story and promoting national development. She emphasized that publishers are key to advancing transparency, accountability, and good governance all of which are vital for sustaining peace and development. “Publishers are an integral part of society, and your audiences depend on you for timely, factual, and responsible reporting,” Wallen said. “Journalists and publishers are no exception when it comes to accountability. Your work helps sustain peace and keeps development on track.” She further linked the role of publishers to the World Bank’s broader development agenda, stressing that access to information and citizen engagement are central to improving lives and expanding opportunities. “We have learned that development is better when citizens are informed and engaged. That is why transparency and accountability remain at the heart of the World Bank’s work,” she noted.
In her closing remarks, Madam Wallen reiterated the World Bank’s commitment to supporting Liberia’s development, particularly through the upcoming World Bank Group (WBG) Country Partnership Framework, which will focus on job creation and economic growth. She expressed optimism that the Publishers Association, under its new leadership, would continue to play a pivotal role in strengthening Liberia’s democratic space and development trajectory. “Development is everybody’s business. We look forward to a bright future for the Association and the publishing industry in Liberia,” she concluded, thanking the Association for the honor of addressing such a significant gathering. The induction ceremony brought together publishers, media executives, civil society actors, and partners who pledged their support to the new leadership in advancing the objectives of the Publishers Association of Liberia.
