On November 8th and 15th, 2023, residents of Peace Island and Doe Communities in Monrovia, Liberia, participated in two town hall meetings organized by the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding (CEMESP) on behalf of the National Road Fund of Liberia (NRFL). These meetings aimed to engage local communities in understanding the operations of the NRFL, particularly its significance in road development and maintenance across the country. The interactive sessions provided a platform for community members to discuss their concerns and gather information about ongoing and future road projects financed by the NRFL.
At the Peace Island meeting, a substantial attendance highlighted community interest in road maintenance and development. NRFL Manager, Madam Joseta Neufville-Wento, underscored the importance of preserving roads funded by the NRFL. She explained how the Fund generates and allocates finances for construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance of road infrastructures, primarily through contributions from taxes on petroleum products and donor funds. Madam Neufville-Wento stressed the need for communal responsibility in caring for local roads to ensure their longevity, thereby enhancing the quality of life and supporting national development.
In the Doe Community, the town hall featured presentations by NRFL Chief Program Officer Albert Samukai and Media Relations Director Emmett Coker. They shared insights into various projects funded by the NRFL and emphasized the significant role the Fund plays in improving Liberia’s road infrastructure. Additionally, they discussed the strategic objectives of the NRFL, focusing on efficient utilization of resources to enhance the country’s road network, which serves as a backbone for economic and social activities.
CEMESP organized these town hall meetings as part of a wider communication strategy following a consultancy awarded by the NRFL. The organization aims to increase transparency, boost public awareness, and help citizens understand the NRFL’s functions and contributions to national development. By facilitating these discussions, CEMESP serves as a crucial link between the NRFL and the communities, encouraging dialogue that emphasizes accountability and responsiveness to community needs.
The town halls also allowed residents to voice their concerns, ask questions, and actively participate in the discussion about road projects and other related issues. This engagement reflects a commitment by both the NRFL and CEMESP to connect with the public, providing comprehensive information about how road infrastructure impacts the daily lives of citizens. By creating such inclusive forums, the NRFL works towards building support and understanding for their initiatives, ensuring the sustainability of road programs that benefit all inhabitants.
Overall, the town hall meetings exemplify a proactive approach to community engagement in Liberia’s developmental philosophy, particularly in the realm of infrastructure. By instilling a sense of ownership and accountability within local communities, the NRFL and CEMESP hope to cultivate a collaborative environment that fosters dialogue, enhances infrastructure quality, and ultimately contributes to Liberia’s growth trajectory. Through these enduring engagements, the vision for improved road development and maintenance can be realized, further cementing the role of infrastructure in national progress.
