By Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia – In a significant move towards bolstering national dialogue and promoting inclusive governance, the Government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), has officially launched the “Kapa Kulono” Town Hall Initiative. This nationwide platform is strategically designed to bridge the gap between the government and its citizens, ensuring that the voices of all Liberians are heard and considered in the nation’s development agenda.
The initiative, aptly named “Kapa Kulono,” which translates from the Kpelle language to “Come, let’s talk,” was unveiled on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, during MICAT’s routine press briefing. This announcement signals the tangible commitment of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration to fostering an open, accountable, and people-centered style of governance.
Information Minister Jerolinmek M. Piah articulated the initiative’s significance, stating, “This is about opening the space for real conversations on how the government is working and what needs to be improved. We are taking the government to the people, ensuring that every Liberian, irrespective of their status, has a voice in national development.”
The official commencement of the “Kapa Kulono” initiative is scheduled for today, Wednesday, May 7, at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town. This inaugural event is anticipated to draw a diverse assembly of participants, encompassing key government officials, prominent business figures, engaged students, respected traditional elders, active civil society organizations, influential women’s groups, and esteemed local chiefs.
Minister Piah was keen to emphasize the non-partisan nature of the program, clarifying that it is “not a political campaign, but rather a genuine effort to promote transparency, civic engagement, and development responsiveness.” He further elaborated on the core objective, stating, “This initiative gives citizens a seat at the table to raise concerns, offer solutions, and collaborate with national leadership on the country’s progress.”
The “Kapa Kulono” initiative will be systematically rolled out across all 15 counties in Liberia. The town hall meetings will be carefully structured to address the specific priorities and concerns prevalent within each local community, ensuring that the dialogues are relevant and impactful.
Furthermore, the program actively encourages the participation of a wide spectrum of public and private institutions, including various ministries, government agencies, commissions, and corporations. This inclusive approach will provide these entities with a valuable platform to present their ongoing work, achievements, and challenges directly to the citizenry, fostering greater understanding and accountability.
Minister Piah highlighted that the “Kapa Kulono” initiative is an integral part of broader reforms being undertaken at MICAT, signifying a new chapter in participatory governance and shared responsibility within Liberia. The initiative is envisioned as a sustained and ongoing platform dedicated to civic education, reinforcing democratic accountability, and facilitating collaborative national planning.
In his concluding remarks during the press briefing, Minister Piah extended a heartfelt invitation to all Liberians, urging them to actively participate in this crucial national dialogue. “We are calling on all Liberians – from every background and every county – to be a part of this process. Kapa Kulono is a national dialogue, not divided by politics but united by our love for the country. Liberia is above all of us, and together we can move it forward.”
Journalists, representatives of media institutions, and members of the public are warmly invited to attend the launch event today. This event is poised to establish the tone and framework for what the government envisions as a lasting tradition of open and honest engagement with the people of Liberia.
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