Liberia: National Land Governance Under Scrutiny as MAP Liberia Convenes Reform Forum

MAP Liberia has convened a two-day national roundtable in Monrovia targeting reform in land governance. The forum aims to translate discussions into actionable outcomes and has seen the participation of key stakeholders highlighting the need for reforms. A consistent call emerged for increased inclusivity and addressing systemic issues in land governance to fulfill Liberia’s development goals.

In Liberia, the Multi-Actor Platform on Land Governance and Responsible Agricultural Investment (MAP Liberia) has kicked off a significant two-day roundtable focused on reforming land administration. Taking place in Monrovia, this forum has gathered influential figures from government ministries, civil society, traditional leaders, and development agencies, all to reflect on past achievements and identify ongoing challenges in the land sector.

Unlike a typical conference, this gathering is seen as a pivotal moment. Stakeholders are determined to translate discussions into practical, community-oriented reforms. Ms. Julie Weah, the Executive Director of FGGDI and Co-convener of the MAP Steering Committee, emphasized the need for action during her opening remarks. She noted, “Land governance is not where it should be, but equally so, it’s not where it used to be.” Her message was about the importance of moving forward.

In agreement with this sentiment, representatives from various national institutions stressed the necessity for reform. From the Ministry of Agriculture to ActionAid Liberia and the National Climate Change Secretariat, participants confirmed their commitment to sustainable land governance as a foundation for Liberia’s development. Sam Lamine, representing the Ministry of Agriculture, stressed that comprehensive policy reforms are crucial for sustainable land use, emphasizing that without addressing land issues, agriculture cannot advance.

Lamine remarked, “Without land development, we cannot do anything in agriculture. Next year, when we come back, we must have results to show.” Meanwhile, Nuoh Harris from ActionAid Liberia called for improved coordination among sector actors. He highlighted collective accountability as key for implementing the policy recommendations made at the forum.

Harris stated, “We must re-evaluate our recommendations and align them with how we implement and monitor progress.” The importance of not just talking but ensuring that actions are visible in communities was a recurring theme throughout the discussions. Simpson D.C. Snoh of the National Climate Change Secretariat underscored the link between land policy and environmental objectives, declaring the need to prioritize both people and the planet.

Participants took the time to critique the current land governance structure, which many felt was inadequate and lacking inclusivity. Panels and breakout sessions further acknowledged that while some progress has been made since the Land Rights Act was enacted in 2018, enforcement remains a concern. Rural communities, especially marginalized groups like women, youth, and persons with disabilities, still face significant barriers.

There was a strong consensus on the need for institutional reforms, clearer policy directives, and enhanced investment in rural land governance. Equally important was the push for broader education regarding land policies in communities. One participant summarized the need for national development: “If we want national development to be inclusive, we must put land at the center of our planning. Without land, there is no agriculture, no shelter, no security. It all begins here.”

The MAP Liberia forum represents a critical step towards addressing Liberia’s land governance challenges by gathering a diverse group of stakeholders. The discussions highlighted the need for decisive actions to reform land policies that are inclusive and sustainable. With the strong emphasis on community engagement and accountability, the potential for impactful change looms large, but it remains contingent upon the commitment of all actors involved to follow through on their discussions with concrete results.

Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com