Monrovia, Liberia – The Liberia International NGO Forum (LINGO) has successfully concluded its Annual General Meeting (AGM). The event was held on January 24, 2025, under the theme: “Equitable Partnerships: Visioning for a Locally-Led Development Roadmap for Liberia.”
According to a release, the event exceeded expectations, attracting over 100 participants—20% more than anticipated—and providing a dynamic platform for collaboration among NGOs, partners, and key stakeholders.
The AGM was expertly moderated by Ciara Begley, Co-Chair of LINGO and Country Director for Concern Worldwide, and featured a range of impactful activities, including presentation, panel discussions and networking sessions.
Presentation On research findings: The Ducor Institute, commissioned by LINGO to conduct research on localization, presented preliminary findings that highlighted key challenges and opportunities for advancing locally-led development in Liberia.
Panel Discussions that focused on engaging conversations centered on strategies for building equitable partnerships and strengthening locally-driven development initiatives were held.
For the networking sessions, participants had the opportunity to connect, share experiences, and explore potential collaborations.
Key Milestones Achieved
The AGM also saw the Launch of new standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). LINGO introduced its newly developed SOPs to provide a clear and structured framework for the Forum’s operations, ensuring greater efficiency and collaboration among members.
Leadership Transition
Meanwhile, LINGO welcomed its new Chair, Aminata Kamara, Country Focal Person for RFSU, who officially succeeded Aisha Lai, Country Director for Kvinna till Kvinna. Aisha Lai’s leadership was instrumental in strengthening LINGO’s initiatives and fostering partnerships. She will continue to serve on the Coordinating Committee for one year to support a smooth transition.’, the release noted.
The new leadership for the LINGO’s 2025 Coordinating Committee include K• Aminata Kamara – Chair, Country Focal Person, RFSU, Ciara Begley – Co-Chair, Country Director, Concern Worldwide, Hubert Charles – Treasurer and Host, Country Director, Welthungerhilfe, Mercy Gichuhi – Special Member, Country Director, Save the Children, Aisha Lai – Special Member, Country Director, Kvinna till Kvinna and Josiane Ndjock – LINGO Liaison Consultant
Acknowledgments
Meanwhile, LINGO expresses profound gratitude to all who contributed to the success of AGM 2025. Special thanks to the UN Resident Coordinator and representatives from UN Women, WHO, UNFPA, UNICEF, FAO, the EU, and the embassies of Sweden, Ireland, and the United Kingdom.
“We also acknowledge the participation of representatives from the Ministries of Finance, Labor, Foreign Affairs, Internal Affairs, the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), the Governance Commission, and the Liberia Institute of Public Administration (LIPA),” LINGO said.
LINGO also extends “heartfelt thanks” to its local partners, including Ducor Institute, Naymote, Localization Lab, CENTAL, LINNK, BDI, CIS, and YOUNETPO, for their valuable contributions to the event’s success.
Meanwhile, outgoing Chair Aisha Lai expressed her gratitude, stating: “I am honored to have worked alongside passionate colleagues, including UN agencies, development partners, embassies, local civil society organizations, and dedicated public servants. As a member of the Coordinating Committee, I will actively contribute to establishing a gender working group, ensuring international development continues to evolve in new and meaningful ways.”
LINGO Further noted that this AGM marked a significant step forward for the organization and Liberia’s development community.
“The insights shared, leadership transition, and launch of SOPs reaffirm LINGO’s commitment to driving locally-led development and fostering equitable partnerships for a better Liberia,” the release noted.
As LINGO moves forward, the Forum remains dedicated to empowering Liberia’s NGO community and promoting impactful collaborations for sustainable development.
