By Amos Harris
The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) has announced significant progress in institutional reforms, policy implementation, and land governance under its new leadership, which took office in February 2025.
LLA Chairperson Samuel Kpakio outlined the Authority’s accomplishments and vision for transforming Liberia’s land sector during the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) regular press briefing in Monrovia over the weekend. The Authority’s agenda aligns with President Joseph N. Boakai’s ARREST Agenda.
Chairperson Kpakio expressed gratitude to President Boakai for the confidence placed in him and his team to steer reforms aimed at ensuring transparency, accountability, and efficiency in land management. “It is an honor to serve our nation through the effective management of the Liberia Land Authority,” Kpakio said. “We are building an institution that promotes equity, peace, and sustainable growth.
The Authority has completed a comprehensive review and drafting of new regulations designed to improve service delivery and strengthen its institutional framework. These reforms, Kpakio noted, will enhance land governance, revenue generation, and national peace and security by minimizing land conflicts and promoting responsible land use.
Key initiatives include:
- Streamlining land administration processes such as mapping, deed registration, and land valuation.
- Formalization of customary land rights through the issuance of statutory deeds.
- Intensified efforts to resolve long-standing land disputes in all fifteen counties.
A major recent initiative is the introduction of a new National Deed Form, set to be officially launched on November 1, 2025, with a one-month transition period ending December 1, 2025. This reform is expected to standardize land documentation and significantly reduce fraudulent land activities.
- Interim Guidelines for Temporary Occupancy Permits (formerly known as Squatters’ Right).
- Interim Guidelines for Validating Tribal Certificates.
- Interim Guidelines for the Sale and Lease of Public Land.
- A revised fee regime for land-related services, including fines and charges.
Responding to growing public concerns over land fraud and illegal transactions, the LLA confirmed it has launched an investigation into alleged unlawful land dealings involving Mr. Blamah Wright in areas including Caldwell, Johnsonville, Louisiana, White Plains, and King’s Farm.
Chairperson Kpakio stated that the suspect is cooperating with investigators, and the findings will be shared with the public to ensure transparency and accountability.
Supported by the Government of Sweden under the Sustainable Land Services for Liberia (SLSL) Project, the LLA has completed Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) training for land officers in four counties to strengthen their capacity in conflict mediation and resolution.
Additionally, twelve motorbikes were procured for field officers across six counties to improve mobility and revenue collection. The Authority also reported the stabilization of the Land Administration System (LAS), the adoption of Standard Operating Procedures for deed verification, and the procurement of laptops and scanners to enhance service delivery.
To expand digital connectivity and service access, Starlink internet systems have been installed in Grand Bassa, Margibi, and Bong counties.
Customary Land Rights Milestone
In collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the LLA facilitated the official handover of customary land deeds to 23 communities across Nimba, Grand Cape Mount, and Bomi counties on September 26, 2025. This historic milestone marks a major step toward community land governance and tenure security.
Chairperson Kpakio reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to ensuring equitable land access, tenure security, and transparent administration for all Liberians.
“Our ultimate goal,” he concluded, “is to build a land sector that promotes justice, drives economic growth, and fosters national stability.” The Liberia Land Authority remains dedicated to reforming the nation’s land system to serve as a catalyst for sustainable development and social harmony.
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