By Amos Harris
Ganta, Nimba County – The Chairman of the Liberia Land Authority (LLA), Samuel F. Kpakio, has issued a strong appeal to the Government of Liberia, urging a substantial increase in budgetary allocations to the land sector. Kpakio warned that persistent institutional and operational challenges are seriously undermining the Authority’s ability to fulfill its core mandate.
Mr. Kpakio made the call on Saturday during a high-level ceremony in Ganta, Nimba County, where official land deeds were presented to 23 customary communities from Nimba, Grand Cape Mount, and Bomi Counties. The event marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s ongoing land governance reform, which is designed to secure land tenure rights for local communities.
“The land sector is facing serious difficulties, and without proper investment, it will be difficult to meet the demands and responsibilities placed on the Liberia Land Authority,” Chairman Kpakio stated.
He detailed several pressing constraints facing the LLA, including inadequate staffing, low employee compensation, and limited logistical and technical capacity. According to Kpakio, these limitations continue to hinder the LLA’s effectiveness in regulating, managing, and protecting Liberia’s land resources.
Speaking on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, the LLA Chairman extended appreciation to international partners, specifically recognizing the support of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Peacebuilding Fund and the Government of Sweden for their role in the land formalization process.
He also acknowledged the contributions of senior Liberian officials, including Internal Affairs Minister Francis Nyumalin, and praised the leadership of former LLA Chairman, Atty. J. Adams Manobah, who was in attendance.
Kpakio commended the 23 beneficiary communities for their cooperation and commitment throughout the process. He specifically urged the Community Land Development and Management Committees (CLDMCs) to prioritize accountability and transparency in their land management practices.
“Land is life, so please manage it properly to develop your community,” he cautioned the beneficiaries.
The LLA Chairman also applauded his fellow commissioners and technical staff for their dedication, describing their efforts as critical to the project’s success. The ceremony was attended by several senior LLA officials, including Hon. Joe Williams, Vice-Chairperson; Dr. Mahmoud Solomon, Commissioner for Land Administration; Commissioner Uriah Garsinii, responsible for Land Use and Management; and Hon. Stanley Toe, Executive Director.