Strengthening Local Governance: Strategic Planning Key to Liberia’s Development

By: Geeplay Ezekiel Geeplay| Contributing Writer

Monrovia, Liberia–November 12, 2025 – The Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has reaffirmed the importance of strategic planning in enhancing local governance and community development across Liberia.

Deputy Minister for Research and Development Planning, Edward K. Mulbah, emphasized that strategic planning is crucial for effective service delivery and transparency.

Speaking at a One-Day Strategic Planning Workshop in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, Minister Mulbah highlighted the Ministry’s commitment to empowering local authorities and strengthening decentralization efforts.

The workshop, themed “Improving Local Governance in Liberia: A Shared Vision for 2030,” brought together county development officers, county service center coordinators, and representatives from civil society and community-based organizations.

The event feature discussions on strategic planning, providing a framework for county and district administrations to align programs with national development priorities through effective planning in promoting accountability in the use of public resources.

The MIA Deputy Minister for Research and Development Planning encouraged participants to actively engage in discussions and contribute innovative ideas to shape the Ministry’s local governance reform agenda.

The workshop reviewed progress, identified challenges, and discussed strategies to strengthen coordination between central and local government institutions.

The event is part of the Ministry’s broader effort to improve participatory governance, enhance service delivery, and promote sustainable development at the grassroots level.

With a focus on strategic planning, Liberia is poised to take significant steps towards effective local governance and community development.