Monrovia – A new governance reform proposal is calling for the separation of sports from youth affairs in Liberia, recommending the creation of a dedicated Ministry of Sports as part of a broader restructuring of the nation’s executive branch.
By: Christopher C. Walker, [email protected]
The proposal is authored by Christian Weah Sr., former President of the Clubs Presidents Association of Liberia (CPAL) and a candidate for the Executive Committee of the Liberia Football Association (LFA) in the upcoming May 15 election.
The Case for Institutional Reform
Weah argues that the current merger of youth and sports under a single ministry is inefficient and outdated.
He highlights a paradox in the current structure: while youth and sports are combined, gender, children, and social protection are managed separately, leading to fragmented service delivery.
“Sports has evolved into a major sector of national development that requires focused leadership, clear policy direction, and dedicated funding,” Weah noted in the proposal.
His vision involves a two-pronged restructuring that is the Establishment of a standalone Ministry of Sports and Consolidation of youth and social services into a unified Ministry of Youth, Children, and Social Protection.
Sports as an Economic Driver
The proposal maintains that Liberian sports is no longer merely recreational but a key driver of national identity and economic opportunity.
Weah contends that a dedicated ministry would Strengthen governance within institutions like the LFA.
he said the it will also Improve infrastructure development across the country, while also creating structured pathways for athletes from grassroots to elite levels.
He said having a separate ministry of sports will enhance Liberia’s engagement with international bodies such as FIFA.
The Proposed Ministry Framework
Under the framework, the new Ministry of Sports would oversee specialized departments including, Football Development and Women’s Sports, Athletics, Olympic Sports, and School/Grassroots programs.
Also it will also coordinate Coaching, Refereeing Education, and Sports Medicine.l and Infrastructure Management.
Streamlining Social Protection
The proposal further recommends merging youth empowerment programs, child welfare, and social protection initiatives.
Weah argues this consolidation would eliminate duplication of efforts and deliver more coordinated support to vulnerable groups.
Addressing gender, Weah proposes a “mainstreaming” approach rather than a standalone ministry.
He suggests that gender equality should be embedded directly into the policy formulation and budgeting of all government institutions, particularly within the youth and social sectors.
A Step Toward “Smarter Governance”
Weah emphasizes that these reforms are not intended to expand bureaucracy, but to create clearer mandates.
“It is about building institutions that are more focused, efficient, and responsive to national priorities,” he stated.
If implemented, the proposal argues Liberia could transform sports into a genuine national economic driver while ensuring that youth empowerment and social protection are managed with greater efficiency and accountability.
