The training emphasized responsible engagement and evidence-based advocacy to ensure local leaders are held accountable for their decisions and promises.
ZWEDRU, Grand Gedeh – NAYMOTE–Liberia has concluded a nationwide training initiative on social accountability monitoring, equipping 75 young Liberians with tools to promote transparency and good governance across the country.
By: Peter P. Toe, Jr
The final session of the training was held in Zwedru, Grand Gedeh County, on July 1 and 2, 2025, at the Zwedru City Hall. It brought together five representatives each from the County Accountability and Advocacy Teams (CAAT) in Maryland, Grand Kru, River Gee, River Cess, Sinoe, and Grand Gedeh.
The first phase of the program was conducted earlier in Gbarnga, Bong County, and included participants from the upper nine counties comprising Region 1. The Zwedru session marked the completion of the Region 2 phase, focusing on Liberia’s southeastern counties.
Participants were trained to monitor the actions of government officials, public institutions, and the use of public resources. The training emphasized responsible engagement and evidence-based advocacy to ensure local leaders are held accountable for their decisions and promises.
NAYMOTE’s Project Manager and lead facilitator, Bako Korboi Shuaibu Jr., encouraged participants to focus on constructive monitoring.
“We’re not deploying you to audit government officials in a confrontational way,” he said. “We want you to monitor, track, follow up with stakeholders, analyze, and report on findings. The goal is to highlight both challenges and positive outcomes.”
Participants were introduced to tools such as the Public Expenditure Tracking Survey (PETS), the National Budget, the County Development Fund (CDF), and the President Meter — a NAYMOTE tool designed to track presidential commitments.
Representing the Grand Gedeh local administration, Jarwee N. Suku, Administrative Assistant in the Office of the Superintendent, welcomed the initiative and said it serves as a reminder to public officials to uphold accountability.
“When these kinds of initiatives are implemented, we as public officials are reminded to always be mindful of our responsibilities,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the trainees, participant Albertine Siah pledged their commitment to applying the skills gained.
“As we return to our respective counties, we are ready to serve as volunteers and apply everything we have learned,” she said.
The training is part of NAYMOTE–Liberia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen democratic accountability and citizen participation. The organization aims to empower young people to play a more active role in ensuring transparency at the local level.
