Charlesville, Liberia – Humane Society International Liberia (HSI Liberia) has officially rebranded as Humane World for Animals (HWA) to better reflect its mission of creating lasting change for animals in Liberia and around the world. The announcement was made on Friday, February 14, 2025, during a special program at the organization’s headquarters in Charlesville, Lower Margibi County, by Dr. Richard K. Ssuna, Director of Humane World for Animals, marking a new chapter for the organization.
By Claudius T. Greene, Jr., contributing writer
For more than 30 years globally and 10 years in Liberia, the organization, formerly known as Humane Society International, has worked to address the root causes of animal cruelty and suffering. With this rebranding, HWA aims to strengthen its identity and global impact, aligning with its U.S.-based counterpart under a unified name and logo that better communicates its broad mission to protect animals worldwide.
A Commitment to Liberia’s Chimpanzees
Speaking at the event, Morris Darbo, former country director of HSI Liberia, expressed confidence in the organization’s continued efforts to protect chimpanzees and other animals in Liberia.
“I know that the chimpanzees in Liberia are in the right hands,” he stated.
Darbo recalled the challenges faced in 2015, when chimpanzees, previously used for research, were left without food and clean water, making them entirely dependent on human care.
“The first organization that stepped in, Societal Atom, did great work for these animals. They mobilized resources, and civil society groups joined forces to advocate for their well-being,” he said.
He also acknowledged the dedication of individuals and local communities who continued to provide food and care despite the lack of external funding.
“We took it upon ourselves to mobilize local resources, involving community members who contributed food to ensure these animals survived. Caring for animals requires dedication and commitment,” he emphasized.
A Global Shift for Greater Impact
Dr. Richard K. Ssuna, Director of Humane World for Animals, explained the significance of the global transition.
“Today, we officially transition from Humane Society International Liberia to Humane World for Animals, Liberia. This is not just a name change in Liberia but a worldwide shift, with over 50 programs globally rebranding under one unified identity,” he said.
He highlighted that the organization, which has operated in Liberia for a decade, is aligning with its international counterparts under a single name and logo.
“The new logo represents progress and our mission to end animal cruelty. Every animal depicted is shown in motion—happy and moving forward—symbolizing our commitment to positive change,” Dr. Ssuna explained.
He also noted that the term “humane society” often led to misconceptions, with some associating the organization with humanitarian aid rather than animal welfare.
“With the transition to Humane World for Animals, we maintain our identity as a humane organization while clearly communicating our mission to protect all animals—not just in Liberia, but globally,” he emphasized.
A Strategic Step Forward
Dr. Ssuna revealed that the rebranding process took over five years of research, discussions, and consultations with stakeholders, board members, and partners.
“This was not a simple change. It required coordination with government agencies like the Ministry of Finance, the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), banks, suppliers, and partners. It’s a significant step, but one that will strengthen our impact,” he stated.
Despite the name change, he assured that the organization’s work in Liberia would expand and improve.
“Changing our name does not change our mission. Instead, it allows us to do more, collaborate better, and address challenges more effectively. With this transition, we are reinforcing our commitment to fighting animal cruelty with compassion, advocating for policy changes, and promoting a humane culture,” Dr. Ssuna affirmed.
A Global Message of Unity
A special message from Katie Bloch, President of Humane World for Animals, underscored the significance of the transformation:
“Since our founding, we have continued to evolve to maximize our impact for animals around the world. This next step in our journey ensures our global mission and bold work are clearly understood. By uniting under one global brand, we reflect our shared vision and strategy more effectively.”
The rebranding also includes the launch of the Humane World Action Fund, which aims to strengthen advocacy and legislative efforts in animal welfare.
“The name change brings action and energy to our mission, ensuring that we make a real difference in the lives of animals everywhere,” Dr. Ssuna concluded.
With this transformation, Humane World for Animals, Liberia, is set to expand its programs, strengthen international partnerships, and deepen its impact in the fight against animal cruelty.
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