Minister Nyumalin Advocates for Decentralization to Improve Local Service Delivery

Monrovia : In a decisive move towards advancing decentralization and enhancing local governance, Liberia has unveiled a comprehensive legislative agenda aimed at empowering sub-national bodies and improving service delivery across the nation. This announcement was a key highlight of the State of the Nation Address delivered on January 29, 2024, by President [President's Name].

During the address, President [President's Name] underscored the urgent need to operationalize the Local Government Act of 2018 and accelerate the decentralization program. Central to this agenda is the establishment of the Ministry of Local Government, envisioned to streamline the implementation of local governance policies and strengthen service provision at the grassroots level.

A pivotal aspect of the legislative agenda is the enactment of the Revenue Sharing Law, which mandates the retention of 40% of locally generated revenues at County Service Centers. This financial autonomy aims to alleviate longstanding fiscal challenges faced by these centers, empowering them to fund essential local development projects independently.

Addressing bureaucratic hurdles that hinder efficient service delivery, the government has directed all sector Ministries, Agencies, and Commissions (MACs) to decentralize approvals and signing authorities to their respective representatives at County Service Centers. This directive seeks to reduce transaction costs for citizens and expedite administrative processes that were previously centralized in Monrovia.

The Inter-Ministerial Committee on Decentralization (IMCD), comprising heads of relevant MACs, convened to strategize on overcoming obstacles hindering decentralization efforts. President [President's Name] emphasized the committee's role in driving forward reforms and ensuring coordinated efforts across sectors and counties.

In concluding the address, President [President's Name] expressed gratitude to development partners for their ongoing support and urged strengthened collaboration to achieve shared goals in Liberia's decentralization journey. The president's call to action resonated with a commitment to build a stronger, more inclusive Liberia where local communities thrive.

The legislative agenda marks a significant step towards fulfilling Liberia's National Policy on Decentralization and Local Governance, enhancing participatory decision-making, and bolstering local capacity development. As the nation moves forward with these reforms, it aims to harness the collective efforts of its citizens and partners to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for all Liberians.

Internal Affairs minister Francis Nyumalin 

During the program, internal Affairs minister Nyumalin highlighted the importance of decentralization in bringing government services closer to the people. He emphasized the need for quick action to address issues such as the malfunctioning of computers and printers at County Service Centers, as well as the lack of separate structures for these centers.

The Minister also praised President Boakai for his commitment to decentralization, including the establishment of a Ministry of Local Government. He noted the progress made in implementing the Local Government Act of 2018, such as the creation of County Councils and the National Council of Chiefs.

Minister Nyumalin also announced plans for a weeklong orientation in Gompa City, Nimba County, to provide training for newly appointed county and local officials. The orientation will include sessions on the local government act(LGA) and the implementation of the decentralization program.

The IMCD meeting highlighted the government’s efforts to strengthen decentralization and improve service delivery at the local level. Attendees expressed their support for these initiatives and pledged to work together to build a new Liberia through decentralization.