In a bid to garner active citizen’s participation and increased advocacy against corruption, in Liberia, the Center for Transparency and Accountability in Liberia (CENTAL)conducted a series of anti-corruption advocacy training sessions for stakeholders including civil society actors, media, women, youth and persons living with disabilities in Margibi, Bong and Grand Bassa Counties.
During the different sessions, participants were equipped with tools and strategies to increase advocacy against corruption. As the sessions went by, participants were encouraged to become catalysts of change and advocates in their respective communities. “These sessions and more citizens’ engagements are important in rallying the needed support in the fight against corruption. said Torwon F. Gensee, Project Coordinator, CENTAL.
Gensee emphasized further the importance of local advocacy in the fight against corruption and stressed the importance of the newly established advocacy groups for active local engagements.
“Thanks to the Irish Aid through the Embassy of Ireland in Liberia for their magnanimous support towards this endeavor. With this support, we cannot overemphasize the need for a strengthened fight against corruption and improved local governance,”he said.
The training sessions included a mix of presentations, interactive break out discussions, and real-life case studies that painted a vivid picture of the corruption landscape in Liberia.
Participants were introduced to the fundamental concepts of corruption, its detrimental effects on society, and the urgent need for accountability and robust advocacy.
Mr. Alfred Karnley, Community Relations Officer, at the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) provided insights into the Commission’s efforts, challenges, and successes in tackling corruption. His session underscored the critical role of legal mechanisms in ensuring accountability and justice.
“The Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) should be more robust in the fight against corruption and adjudication of alleged corruption cases. Also, the need for a specialized court to address corruption must be prioritized,” Mercy Zahn Gbhoe,Youth Broadcaster, Grand Bassa County.
During the second day of the training, participants skills were enhanced in advocacy which later culminated into the formation of an advocacy group. The group is comprised of media representatives, CSO members, youth, women, men, and persons with disabilities and is a diverse and inclusive coalition united by a shared commitment to combat corruption and strengthen advocacy efforts.
It is expected to be empowered and supervised by CENTAL through its Project Coordinator and other staff to raise anti-corruption awareness within their communities, and mobilize support for meaningful action.
Covering a range of topics, including effective communication strategies, coalition-building, and the role of media in anti-corruption advocacy, participants were encouraged to think creatively and strategically about how they could leverage their platforms to raise awareness and mobilize support for anti-corruption and advocacy initiatives.
“When we are empowered to take action against corruption, regardless of our abilities, our country will do well in the fight against corruption. This will improve local service delivery and promote inclusion in all sectors,” said Ma Alice M. Nyankorlor, Chairlady, Persons Living with Disabilities (PWDs) in Margibi County.
