By Figo Mansaray
The Ministry of Local Government, together with the National Council of Chiefs Support Office, has opened a four-day capacity-building workshop in Sanniquellie City, Nimba County.
The training brings together traditional leaders from Grand Bassa, Margibi, Bong, Lofa, and Nimba counties.
The workshop is being held under the theme, “Enhancing Capacity of Members of the Council of Chiefs for Effective Performance.” Organizers say the program is aimed at strengthening local governance and improving community leadership across Liberia.
Speaking during the opening program, Deputy Minister for Local Government and Decentralization Hon. Edward K. Mulbah welcomed participants on behalf of Local Government Minister Hon. F. Sakila Nyumalin Sr.
Deputy Minister Mulbah highlighted the important role chiefs play in promoting peace, unity, and development in their communities.
He encouraged traditional leaders to take ownership of national development efforts and continue supporting local progress.
“Our President, Joseph Nyuma Boakai, is doing a lot of good things for our country. We, as traditional chiefs, should take ownership as citizens,” Deputy Minister Mulbah said.
The Executive Director of the National Council of Chiefs Support Office, Hon. Joseph S. Cooper, explained the goals of the training and the legal structure guiding the council’s work. He said the workshop will help chiefs better understand their duties and responsibilities.
Director Cooper also reminded participants about the 2024 orientation held in Ganta, where the former 2012 National Council of Chiefs and Traditional Elders structure was dissolved to align with the Local Government Act of 2018.
According to organizers, the workshop is also focused on strengthening the role of chiefs in preserving Liberian culture and traditions while promoting peace-building and reconciliation in communities.
Participants are expected to receive training in administrative work, dispute resolution, and community leadership.
Officials say these skills are important for improving local development and strengthening cooperation between communities and government institutions.
Welcoming the delegates to Nimba County, Political Liaison Officer Prince Yeah praised the Ministry of Local Government and the National Council of Chiefs Support Office for organizing the program.
He reaffirmed Nimba County’s commitment to supporting decentralization and empowering traditional leaders across Liberia.
