Speaking after a solidarity visit to Lofa County, Gono warned against inflammatory rhetoric and fear-driven reactions that could heighten tensions, emphasizing that the government remains firmly in control and committed to a peaceful resolution.

“Let us not pray for echoes of war. Let us not make inflammatory statements,” she said. “Statements such as ‘we are prepared’ or ‘we are former generals’ and other inciting comments are unnecessary. We have a responsible and mature government handling this situation with the seriousness it deserves.”

Gono, who also serves as Superintendent of Nimba County, pointed to Liberia’s painful history of conflict as a reminder of the need to safeguard peace and stability. She highlighted the country’s democratic progress, including multiple successful elections and its growing standing on the global stage.

“We know the effects of war,” she said. “Our country is moving forward. We are developing. We value our peace.”

Speaking during an interview on OKFM on Friday, April 3, 2026, Gono expressed confidence in President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, assuring citizens that all diplomatic channels are being pursued to prevent any escalation.

According to Gono, the council’s visit to Lofa County was not investigative but symbolic—aimed at showing solidarity with local communities and security forces stationed along the border. She described the situation on the ground as calm and stable.

“It is quiet. The people are optimistic. We met with local leaders, women, and our joint security forces. There is no cause for panic,” she noted.

Meanwhile, Gono has dismissed as “baseless and frivolous” a report by FrontPage Africa alleging dissatisfaction among joint security personnel in Nimba County over the construction of a residence for the county’s police commander.

In its April 1, 2026 publication titled “Nimba’s Joint Security Reportedly in Disarray Over Unequal Housing Allocation,” FrontPage Africa claimed that tensions were rising after a housing unit was allocated exclusively to the police commander, allegedly bypassing other security agencies.

However, speaking on OKFM, Gono described the report as misleading.

“That report has no basis,” she said. “Our security apparatuses are working in strong coordination and cooperation. None of them have raised such concerns.”

She reaffirmed that the county administration continues to support security agencies through budgetary allocations, particularly for border patrol operations amid the situation with Guinea, while maintaining close coordination among all stakeholders.

The post “No Echoes of War!” — Nimba Sup. Kou Meapeh Gono Urges Calm Amid Liberia-Guinea Border Dispute first appeared on OK FM.

In a letter addressed to Senate President Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Senator Snowe cited recent public statements allegedly made by Finance and Development Planning Minister Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, suggesting that harmonized salary structures at certain government institutions have been reversed.

According to the senator, the reported action affects several autonomous and integrity institutions, including the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC), the General Auditing Commission (GAC), and the Judiciary.

He warned that such a move, if confirmed, could undermine legislative authority and violate existing laws governing public sector compensation.

Snowe stressed that the Act to Establish the National Remuneration Standardization of 2019 remains legally binding, noting that it has not been repealed, amended, or modified by the Legislature.

He argued that the law provides the statutory framework for salary harmonization across public institutions and does not grant unilateral powers to the Executive Branch or its agencies to reverse the policy.

The senator further pointed to potential implications for budgetary compliance, cautioning that any deviation from approved remuneration structures without legislative approval could amount to a breach of the budget process.

Snowe’s letter comes amid growing public debate over government pay policies and the autonomy of integrity institutions. The matter is expected to trigger further scrutiny within the Senate, including possible hearings or engagement with the Ministry of Finance for clarification.

As of press time, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning had not publicly responded to the concerns raised by Senator Snowe.

The post Snowe Raises Alarm Over Alleged Reversal of Public Sector Pay Harmonization first appeared on OK FM.

Speaking Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the Unity Party Homecoming in Congo Town, NMRC National Chairman Victor Saye recounted the movement’s political journey and said its continued alignment with the Unity Party–led government is rooted in principles and a renewed belief in national progress.

Saye recalled that by 2021—well ahead of the 2023 elections—the movement had begun experiencing “disappointment from unfair promises and contradictions” within the Coalition for Democratic Change (CDC), the political grouping it once belonged to. By 2022, he said, the CDC had “drifted from its mandate,” prompting the NMRC to withdraw.

“With dignity and truth, we withdrew from the CDC and established this movement to help opposition parties restore hope in the Republic of Liberia,” Saye said. “Our loyalty has always been to Liberia first.”

He described 2023 as the NMRC’s defining moment, when the movement endorsed then-candidate Boakai and running mate Koung during the presidential runoff, driven by a desire for “clean, disciplined, and purposeful leadership.”

“Two years later, we stand proudly with no regrets,” Saye declared. “Mr. President, your leadership surprised us—not with noise, but with direction; not with intimidation, but with integrity; not with confusion, but with national purpose.”

Saye noted that the movement’s 119,000 registered members across Montserrado, Margibi, Grand Bassa, Bong, Nimba, Grand Gedeh, and other counties “stand firmly” with the administration, praising its commitment to transparency, accountability, and development-focused governance.

“We are not disappointed in this government. We remain confident. We remain committed,” he said. “We believe your intentions are right, your direction is strong, and your dedication to the people is unquestionable.”

Group Chairman Victor Saye (middle) speaking to the press

He emphasized that the movement is not seeking positions, political rewards, or favors, but is focused on helping the administration deliver for Liberians.

“The National Movement for Real Change is not here for positions. We are not here for favors,” Saye said. “We are here to help this government succeed—because when the government succeeds, the people succeed.”

In his closing remarks, Saye reaffirmed the movement’s loyalty to President Boakai, Vice President Koung, and the people of Liberia.

“Today, before Liberia and before history, we reaffirm our commitment,” he said. “The journey may be long, the road may be rough, but together, we will rise again. We are here to stay. We are here to stand. We are here to help Liberia rise again.”

The post From Disappointment to Confidence: National Movement for Real Change Reaffirms Support to Boakai–Koung Administration, Citing Integrity and National Purpose first appeared on OK FM.

LWEP is a US$44.6 million World Bank–funded loan project aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment, promoting positive social norms, and improving GBV prevention.

On Thursday, November 28, a delegation comprising Gender Minister Gbemee Horace and World Bank Country Manager Georgia Wallace visited Nyehn Town in Todee District to engage with rural beneficiaries, women’s groups, and local leaders, all of whom are participants in the project.

During the meeting, beneficiaries explained how the project has positively impacted their lives through business support and livelihood skills training.

They added that the skills and knowledge gained from the programs have empowered them to better manage their finances and become more self-reliant.

“Because of the training we received from the World Bank and the Gender Ministry, we know how to manage our money and get more profit. Before, we were just selling without knowing where the money was going,” said the leader of one of the groups.

“We no longer depend on men to give us money. If he brings 50 dollars to the table, we will bring our own too,” she added.

While acknowledging the progress made, Gender Minister Gbemee Horace noted that there is still more work to be done to ensure the project achieves its goals.

“I am encouraging all of you to make sure that the grants received from this project are used wisely to benefit your children and other women like you,” she urged.

Madam Horace also used the occasion to share the Government’s message on the 16 Days of Activism, calling for an end to violence against women and girls. The team’s visit to Todee coincided with the observance of the month-long event.

Meanwhile, impressed by the testimonials from beneficiaries, World Bank Country Manager Georgia Wallace pledged the institution’s continued support.

The Liberia Women Empowerment Project is being implemented across six counties, including Montserrado, Bomi, and Grand Cape Mount, among others.

The visit was also attended by several implementing partners, including representatives from Plan International, Catholic Relief Services, and others.

The post “We No Longer Depend on Men”: Beneficiaries Praise Liberia Women Empowerment Project first appeared on OK FM.

The bill, titled “An Act to Ban Harmful Cultural Practices in Liberia,”was recently submitted to the House plenary by President Joseph Boakai for consideration.

President Boakai is urging lawmakers to pass legislation that would put an end to Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and child marriage, practices he says have negatively affected women and children across Liberia.

In his communication, read during the fourth day sitting of the House, the President stated that such traditional practices have long undermined the well-being of women and children, while also violating several international treaties to which Liberia is a signatory.

He cited key conventions, including the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Maputo Protocol, and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

Opposition from Some Lawmakers

Lofa County District #4 Representative Gizzie Kollince is among those opposing the passage of the bill.

Speaking during Thursday’s October 23 sitting, Representative Kollince described the proposed law as “an attempt to eliminate tradition and an attack on cultural heritage.”

He argued that these practices have existed for generations and have helped shape well-cultured individuals, insisting that they should not be hastily abolished.

Kollince, however, called for a meeting with President Boakai to persuade him to reconsider his position on the matter.

Key Provisions of the Bill

The proposed legislation aims to:

• Establish penalties for violations,
• Provide support and protection services for victims,
• Introduce transitional measures lasting six months before the ban takes effect, and
• Mandate strong monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.

UNICEF Data

According to UNICEF, an estimated 141,600 girls in Liberia are married before the age of 15, while 518,400 are married before turning 18.

The organization reports on Female Genital Multilation also shows that at least 200 million girls and women worldwide have undergone FGM across 31 countries with reliable data on prevalence.

Public Reaction

As debates over the proposed ban on harmful traditional practices continue, many Liberians are closely following the proceedings, eager to see how lawmakers will decide on this highly sensitive national issue.

The post Lawmakers Clash Over Bill to Ban “Harmful Traditional Practices” first appeared on OK FM.

The decision to invite the health authorities followed a formal complaint filed by Margibi County District #3 Representative, Ellen Attoh-Wreh. In her communication to the Plenary, Rep. Wreh expressed alarm over the rising number of infections and the potential threat the outbreak poses to public health and safety.

Representative Wreh urged her colleagues to demand a detailed briefing from the Health Ministry and NPHIL regarding the current status of the monkeypox outbreak. She emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in the government’s response, citing that the public deserves accurate information about the situation.

The lawmaker further stressed the importance of clarifying the nation’s public health response strategy. She called on the health authorities to provide updates on awareness campaigns, case detection mechanisms, treatment protocols, and other preventive measures being implemented to contain the virus and prevent further spread across the country.

Ellen Attoh-Wreh Voice

The post House of Representatives Summons Health Officials Over Rising Monkeypox Cases in Liberia first appeared on OK FM.

The ceremony, held in Conakry, marks the formal commencement of Ambassador Gizzie’s tenure as Liberia’s Chief Diplomatic Representative to Guinea and signifies the full restoration of Liberia’s ambassadorial presence in the neighboring country since 2019.

During the presentation, Ambassador Gizzie conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., reaffirming Liberia’s commitment to strengthening the historic bonds of friendship, cooperation, and mutual respect between the two West African nations.

He emphasized Liberia’s dedication to promoting regional peace and security, deepening bilateral cooperation, and advancing economic and social development through enhanced people-to-people exchanges, trade relations, and economic integration.

“The enduring bond between Liberia and Guinea continues to facilitate the free movement of goods, services, and persons across our shared borders — fostering vibrant economic and diplomatic collaboration,” Ambassador Gizzie noted.

He also expressed appreciation to the Government and People of Guinea for their continued cooperation and partnership in pursuit of shared goals of peace, stability, and regional growth.

In his response, President Doumbouya welcomed Ambassador Gizzie and expressed his Government’s readiness to work closely with him to further consolidate the longstanding relationship between Liberia and Guinea.

The Guinean leader also commended Liberia for restoring full diplomatic representation at the ambassadorial level, describing it as a significant step toward deepening bilateral ties.

The two leaders reaffirmed their countries’ shared commitment to regional solidarity, cooperation, and development within the framework of the Mano River Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

The post Ambassador Forkpa Gizzie Presents Credentials to Guinean President Doumbouya first appeared on OK FM.

What appeared at first to be a routine diplomatic gathering shifted dramatically into a spiritually significant encounter—especially for Liberia.

President Trump opened with remarks praising the nations for their valuable land, rich mineral and oil deposits, and vibrant cultures. But it was an unexpected exchange with Liberian President Joseph N. Boakai that revealed a deeper meaning.

Turning to President Boakai, Trump exclaimed, “Such good English! Where did you learn to speak so beautifully? Were you educated? Where?”

To the discerning ear, this was not just an offhand comment—it was a divine signal. Though some media outlets and critics misinterpreted the moment, it was in fact a prophetic opening for Liberia. President Boakai responded with grace, and Liberia’s Foreign Minister, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, rightly stated there was no offense taken.

At a subsequent prayer meeting in Maryland, USA, Bishop Dr. Manon Gurley of Tabernacle Church prayed earnestly that this moment of distinction would not be lost. Indeed, Scripture reminds us that “God uses the foolish things of the world to confound the wise” (1 Corinthians 1:27). What may have seemed like an undiplomatic gaffe was, in truth, an unfolding glory—a spiritual visitation, signaling Liberia’s time of divine favor.

It must be said: Liberia has been singled out for a special opportunity on the global stage. But this door of destiny comes with challenges. There are competing voices and narratives, and the nation must beware of reactionary advice masquerading as wisdom. Liberia’s leadership must lean on spiritual discernment rather than political expediency. As a wise man once said, “The most important thing in communication is hearing what isn’t said.”

It is now the responsibility of Liberia’s faith leaders to advise the nation’s political leadership. For more than a century, prayers have been lifted for Liberia. Now that the hour of visitation has come, it is imperative that wisdom take the driver’s seat.

One of the unspoken truths behind President Trump’s remark is the reminder that Liberia, as an Anglophone nation, shares a unique bond with the United States—different from the Francophone nations it was grouped with. Liberia’s identity, language, and history position it as a bridge between Africa and the Western world. This is not coincidence; it is divine design.

Founded in 1822 through the American Colonization Society, Liberia was envisioned with a two-fold purpose: first, to be a land of freedom for freed African Americans, and second, to become a beacon of transformation for the African continent—spreading civilization, moral integrity, and true religious liberty.

Liberia’s future lies not in repeating the past but in boldly stepping into a visionary path, one that eyes have not seen and ears have not heard. This is a call for exceptional leadership—spirit-led, principled, and innovative.

While the world may know Liberia’s past, it has yet to see her future. That future will not be defined by aid, but by trade, innovation, and divine alignment. As Rev. Dr. George Zorbah of the All-Grassroots Pastors Association said, “Liberia does not need handouts!” President Trump’s shift from aid to trade is more than policy—it echoes divine counsel.

Despite her challenges, Liberia—with a population of about six million and vast natural wealth—can become Africa’s most peaceful, prosperous, and progressive republic if this window of opportunity is seized. With nearly 45% of its population under the age of 15, Liberia stands at a demographic and spiritual tipping point.

This moment calls for gratitude to God—and for action. A follow-up summit with U.S. leaders must shift the narrative from history to partnership, from nostalgia to destiny. Liberia must now tell her own story—one of shared values, unity, and a vision that transcends borders.

The American Dream, after all, was never meant to be an American monopoly. It is a global ideal born of divine inspiration. Liberia was established as an African extension of that dream, and it is time to revive that purpose. We must remind the world that the self-evident truth that “all men are created equal” is not just an American creed—it is a divine revelation.

President Trump’s recognition that “we speak the same language” is more than linguistic. It is spiritual. The message is clear: God has opened a door for Liberia—and now is the time to walk through it.

The post Liberia’s Kairos Moment: A Divine Opportunity on the Global Stage first appeared on OK FM.

The House of Representatives passed the bill on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, during its 19th-day sitting of the 2nd Quarter, 2nd Session, after adopting a report from the Joint Committee on Education, Public Administration, and Judiciary.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

· The MVTC will be upgraded and renamed the Monrovia University of Science and Technical Education (MUSTE).

· A three-year phased implementation plan will guide the transition process.

· The university will offer associate degrees and advanced certifications and create multiple career pathways in science and technical fields.

· MUSTE is required to submit a transition and compliance plan to the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) within six months of the law’s enactment.

· The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning has been mandated to provide special budgetary support starting FY 2026.

· A University Council—comprising representatives from government, academia, civil society, and industry—will oversee the transformation.

· New academic programs will include industrial engineering, applied sciences, and technical teacher education.

Rep Kanneh, who also chairs the House Committee on Executive, expressed gratitude to his fellow lawmakers for their support, describing the bill’s passage as a major victory for Liberian youth and the broader goal of educational reform.

“The creation of MUSTE will provide a perfect learning environment for our youth and create opportunities for technical and career advancement,” Kanneh stated.

According to the Chair of the Committee on Education and Public Administration, the transformation of MVTC into MUSTE represents a new era for technical education in Liberia and a significant step toward national development.

“This is a historic step for education in Liberia,” the Chair said. “With proper oversight and investment, MUSTE will become a national center of excellence in science and technical training, producing the skilled professionals needed to drive Liberia’s industrial and economic growth.”

The bill now awaits Senate concurrence to become law.

Rep. Sekou Kanneh Urges Senate Concurrence on Bill to Transform MVTC into Technical University

Montserrado County District #2 Representative, Sekou S. Kanneh, is calling on the Liberian Senate to concur with the House of Representatives on the passage of a landmark educational bill aimed at transforming the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC) into a full-fledged university.

The House of Representatives passed the bill on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, during its 19th-day sitting of the 2nd Quarter, 2nd Session, after adopting a report from the Joint Committee on Education, Public Administration, and Judiciary.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

· The MVTC will be upgraded and renamed the Monrovia University of Science and Technical Education (MUSTE).

· A three-year phased implementation plan will guide the transition process.

· The university will offer associate degrees and advanced certifications and create multiple career pathways in science and technical fields.

· MUSTE is required to submit a transition and compliance plan to the National Commission on Higher Education (NCHE) within six months of the law’s enactment.

· The Ministry of Finance and Development Planning has been mandated to provide special budgetary support starting FY 2026.

· A University Council—comprising representatives from government, academia, civil society, and industry—will oversee the transformation.

· New academic programs will include industrial engineering, applied sciences, and technical teacher education.

Rep. Kanneh, who also chairs the House Committee on Executive, expressed gratitude to his fellow lawmakers for their support, describing the bill’s passage as a major victory for Liberian youth and the broader goal of educational reform.

“The creation of MUSTE will provide a perfect learning environment for our youth and create opportunities for technical and career advancement,” Kanneh stated.

According to the Chair of the Committee on Education and Public Administration, the transformation of MVTC into MUSTE represents a new era for technical education in Liberia and a significant step toward national development.

“This is a historic step for education in Liberia,” the Chair said. “With proper oversight and investment, MUSTE will become a national center of excellence in science and technical training, producing the skilled professionals needed to drive Liberia’s industrial and economic growth.”

The bill now awaits Senate concurrence to become law.

The post Rep. Sekou Kanneh Urges Senate Concurrence on Bill to Transform MVTC into Technical University first appeared on OK FM.

This initiative aims to provide a better understanding of disparities in EdTech deployment across the region.
Presenting at the ongoing delocalized meeting of the Joint Committee on Education, Science and Culture, Health, Telecommunications, and Information Technology, Dr. Kassam emphasized the importance of gathering information on digital education investments from government sources, the private sector, and international donors.
“Conduct a detailed mapping of national digital learning platforms in each West African country, enabling a better understanding of disparities in EdTech deployment. Particular attention should be paid to gathering information regarding investments in digital education and EdTech from governmental sources, private sectors, and international donors,” he said.

Prioritizing EdTech in the ECOWAS Region

Presenting under the theme “Prioritizing Education Technology and Innovation in the ECOWAS Region”, Dr. Kassam encouraged authorities to further explore the impact of EdTech on the learning outcomes of vulnerable demographic groups. He noted EdTech’s vital role in both pre-service and in-service teacher training.
A member of the Plateau State House of Assembly representing Kanke State Constituency, Dr. Kassam also stressed the importance of investing in digital infrastructure—particularly power and internet connectivity—to support schools in the region.

“Further explore the impact of EdTech on the learning outcomes of vulnerable demographic groups, recognizing its potential role in both pre-service and in-service teacher training. Prioritize education technology and innovation in the ECOWAS region through key strategies,” he added.

Leveraging Technology for Access and Quality

Dr. Kassam recommended leveraging various platforms—such as radio, television, mobile phones, and online tools—to expand educational access throughout the sub-region. He emphasized the role of universities in driving economic transformation by strengthening innovation and entrepreneurship activities.
He further called for collaboration between the private sector and international partners to support innovation and entrepreneurship efforts in West Africa.
As the ECOWAS Parliament continues to address challenges confronting EdTech adoption in schools, Dr. Kassam underscored the need for regular assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of educational investments.

Challenges in ECOWAS Schools

Dr. Kassam acknowledged the significant challenges limiting innovation and widespread adoption of EdTech within the region’s education systems. He advocated for policies focused on education quality—rather than political interests—to ensure sustainability, promote stakeholder collaboration, and secure increased funding for EdTech initiatives.

“This approach will allow governments to overcome structural obstacles and improve teacher training, facilitating successful implementation across schools in West Africa,” he noted.
Dr. Kassam also stressed the importance of providing supportive infrastructure—such as electricity, internet connectivity, and digital devices—for EdTech to meaningfully improve education quality across ECOWAS.

The Role of AI in Regional Development

In another presentation, Mawuli Amoa, Acting Principal Program Officer for Telecoms and Post Policy and Regulation, highlighted the need for a dedicated Artificial Intelligence (AI) policy in West Africa.
He emphasized AI’s transformative potential across key sectors, including healthcare, finance, public service delivery, and education.

Mr. Amoa advocated for the responsible use of AI to address regional challenges such as climate change, food security, and regional security concerns. He also urged governments to mitigate risks associated with AI—such as job displacement, privacy violations, manipulation, and biased decision-making.
“AI has transformative power in key sectors like healthcare, finance, public service delivery, and education. The use of AI can offer solutions to regional challenges, but proper governance is needed to mitigate associated risks,” he said.

He stressed the importance of “locally led” AI policies that reflect regional values, contexts, and knowledge systems—rather than uncritically adopting external frameworks.

Opportunities for West Africa

Speaking on the theme “Artificial Intelligence for Education and Skills Development in West Africa”, Mr. Amoa called on leaders to strengthen standards for data management and to build a robust regional governance ecosystem.
“Improved data infrastructure and clear guidance for data access are needed,” he said.
He further emphasized the need to upskill the region’s AI talent pool and integrate AI education into curricula to build a future-ready workforce.

Looking Ahead

Members of the Joint Committee were deeply engaged by the presentations, which addressed the fundamental challenges confronting EdTech in West Africa.
Day three of the delocalized meeting will explore “The Role of ECOWAS Parliament in Advancing Regional EdTech and Innovation Policy.”

The post Bridging the Digital Divide: New Push for Education Technology in ECOWAS Schools first appeared on OK FM.