“This training is a vital step toward the effective implementation of the Local Government Law. Without a proper understanding of the law, decentralization cannot succeed,” said Grand Bassa County Superintendent Mr. Karyou Johnson at the conclusion of a three-day workshop for local government officials held in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County. 

The workshop was themed 'Strengthening Local Government through Integrity, Transparency, and Accountability.”

Superintendent Johnson emphasized that decentralization is essential for development, infrastructure expansion, and human resource progress.

He encouraged participants to apply the knowledge they gained to foster accountability and transparency in their respective counties.

Participants reflected on the workshop’s impact, noting a new awareness of corrupt practices that have become common in public service delivery, especially in sectors like healthcare.

They acknowledged that, if left unchecked, these practices perpetuate corruption and weaken service quality.

The workshop also enhanced participants’ understanding of the role of the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) and the responsibilities of citizens in fighting corruption. 

They learned that the LACC is responsible for preventing and prosecuting corruption, as well as promoting good governance and the rule of law. 

Citizens, they noted, must serve as watchdogs by reporting corruption through tools like the Talkay Mobile App and community suggestion boxes.

LACC Vice Executive Chairperson Mr. Ernest Hughes emphasized that fighting corruption is a shared responsibility. “This is an opportunity for each of you to become advocates for accountability, integrity, and transparency,” he said. 

As local officials, you are often the first point of contact between the government and the public. Your conduct establishes the tone for public trust in government, so integrity, professionalism, and responsiveness should guide your leadership.

During a presentation on asset declaration, Ms. Patricia Barnaby, LACC’s Asset Declaration and Verification Officer, explained that asset declaration is a versatile tool designed to prevent conflicts of interest, uncover unjustified wealth, and promote integrity in public service.

She emphasized that declaring assets helps public officials prevent false accusations and increases public trust in leadership.

UNDP Liberia Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Dia shared a personal view, saying, “Accountability begins at home. Just as family members must justify their spending for the benefit of the household, government officials must account to the public.” 

He highlighted that corruption is more than just a financial problem—it acts as a barrier to human progress. “It drains resources from schools, hospitals, and roads, weakens institutions, and undermines trust between citizens and the government. In Liberia, where local officials are the face of public service, your leadership is crucial.”

Participants expressed strong appreciation for the workshop, stating that the knowledge gained would enable them to act as whistleblowers and catalysts for change in their counties. Certificates of participation were given out at the end of the training.

Mr. John R. Dennis, UN Peacebuilding Fund Programme Coordinator for Liberia, congratulated the participants on their dedication and expressed confidence in their ability to apply the lessons learned to help create a corruption-free Liberia.

Superintendent Johnson also expressed appreciation to the LACC and UNDP Liberia for organizing the workshop, emphasizing that success in fighting corruption relies on civil society organizations fulfilling their roles as watchdogs and whistleblowers.

The workshop brought together about 60 local government officials, including superintendents from Margibi, Rivercess, and Grand Bassa Counties. 

It was supported by the LACC in partnership with UNDP, with funding from the United Nations Peacebuilding Fund (PBF).