Gbarnga, Bong County — The Government of Liberia (GoL), through the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), is conducting a four-day capacity-building workshop for local officials from eight counties. The training, running from August 13–16, 2025, in Gbarnga, aims to strengthen the implementation of the County Development Agenda (CDA) as part of the broader ARREST Agenda for decentralized governance and improved service delivery.
The workshop has brought together county superintendents, development officers, council chairs, and representatives from key ministries and agencies. Participants are gaining knowledge in project planning, development coordination, and CDA implementation to ensure local projects align with national policies.
Speaking at the opening session, Ms. Vinetta Doe, Assistant Director for Regional Planning, emphasized the CDA’s crucial role in bringing the national ARREST Agenda to life at the grassroots level. She urged officials to prioritize community engagement, transparent project selection, and strong coordination between local and national stakeholders, stressing that a commitment to accountability is essential for turning promises into tangible results.
Sidiki A. Quisia, representing the United Nations, commended the Liberian government for the initiative and affirmed the UN’s continued support for CDA implementation, noting that the training provides a vital opportunity for local officials to sharpen their skills.
D. Emmanuel Williams II, Director of the Public Investment Unit, highlighted the importance of rigorous monitoring of county projects to ensure they are aligned with the ARREST Agenda, stating that “effective CDA implementation requires local ownership and hands-on engagement.”
The training underscores Liberia’s ongoing commitment to decentralization, empowering counties to lead development efforts that reflect local priorities while contributing to national goals. During a panel discussion, Caesar T. Mason, Senior Economist at the Division of Development Planning, urged participants to fully commit to executing the CDA for sustainable impact.
Deputy Minister for Research and Development Planning Edward Mulbah and other officials from the MFDP and the Ministry of Internal Affairs are also in attendance.