The National Insurance Corporation of Liberia (NICOL), in partnership with the Civil Service Agency (CSA) and International Bank (Liberia) Limited (IBLL), has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding aimed at providing affordable vehicle insurance coverage for government employees through a flexible salary deduction arrangement.

The agreement, signed Tuesday May 12, 2026, at the Ministry of Information in Monrovia, establishes a financing mechanism under the Government’s Legal Power of Attorney (LPA) Scheme, allowing civil servants to obtain vehicle insurance coverage and repay the cost gradually over six months through payroll deductions.

Under the arrangement, NICOL will provide vehicle insurance services to eligible government employees, while International Bank (Liberia) Limited will facilitate payment and credit administration through a dedicated operational account. The Government of Liberia, through the Civil Service Agency, will coordinate employee participation and ensure repayment through authorized payroll deductions.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, NICOL Acting Managing Director Hon. Abdullah S. Swaray called the partnership “historic” and said it reflects President Joseph Boakai’s commitment to improving the welfare of Liberian workers.

“Today is a very historic day and this signing ceremony exemplifies the President’s commitment to seeking the welfare of Liberians, especially civil servants,” Swaray said.

He praised CSA Director-General Dr. Josiah F. Joekai, Jr. for leading reforms within the civil service sector and emphasized that government employees are among the country’s greatest assets.

“We believe that the biggest asset government has is the employees. NICOL has partnered with the CSA and International Bank not just to provide financial security, but peace of mind,” he stated.

Under the new arrangement, civil servants will no longer be required to make full upfront payments for vehicle insurance. Swaray explained that employees can now enroll through their Human Resource Offices under the Legal Power of Attorney or LPA system and spread payments over six months.

“If your vehicle insurance is US$175, you simply divide that by six. That is the amount you pay monthly,” he explained.

Swaray also disclosed that insurance penetration in Liberia remains below one percent and said the initiative is intended to increase awareness and access to insurance services across the country.

“This initiative is geared toward improving insurance penetration while providing protection and peace of mind,” he added.

For his part, CSA Director-General Dr. Josiah Joekai, Jr. announced that the insurance credit line officially opens next Monday, May 18, 2026 for employees of all 109 government ministries and agencies enrolled in the LPA system.

“As an employee of any government ministry or agency, you can ask your HR office to issue you credit, proceed to NICOL, and obtain your insurance policy,” Joekai said.

He stressed that regardless of the insurance cost, employees will have six months to complete repayment.

Dr. Joekai also highlighted the growth of the automated LPA platform, revealing that participation has increased from about 4,000 employees in 2024 to more than 9,000 employees today, while transaction values have grown from under US$100,000 to more than US$400,000.

“When we sign this agreement today with NICOL, the number of vendors on the platform will increase,” he noted.

Meanwhile, International Bank (Liberia) Limited reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Government of Liberia’s financial inclusion agenda.

Speaking on behalf of IBLL Chief Executive Officer Madam Jacqueline Williams-N’Tow, Compliance Manager, Kojo Weeks praised the CSA for driving innovation within the public sector.

“This partnership shall go a long way. We remain committed, as we have done over the past 66 years,” Weeks said.

The IBLL Compliance Manager further emphasized that despite having foreign ownership, International Bank Liberia (Limited) remains fully managed by Liberians and committed to national development and economic growth.

Officials say the partnership is expected to significantly increase the number of insured vehicles within the civil service community, strengthen compliance with Liberia’s insurance laws, and boost confidence in the country’s insurance and financial sectors.

The post NICOL, CSA and International Bank Launch Vehicle Insurance Credit Scheme for Civil Servants first appeared on OK FM.

According to our reporter, who covered the 2026 friendly matches, the competition is designed to unite local communities. Each participating region showcases its cultural heritage, demonstrating the diversity and uniqueness of China.

Since its inception in the 1940s, the tournament has evolved into a symbol of cultural expression through sport. The 2026 edition combined football matches with vibrant cultural performances, drawing large crowds of locals eager to celebrate and appreciate their traditions.

The competition is notable for its inclusiveness, featuring players of all ages. Historically, the oldest participant has been 56 years old, while the youngest has been just 12.

The league has also attracted international attention, with former Ballon d’Or winners such as Kaká and Fabio Cannavaro having participated in past events.

Liberia’s Participation

In the 2026 edition, a 15-player Liberian select team—each representing one of the country’s counties—took part under the banner “County Meet All Star.” Their participation was widely seen as a symbol of strengthening “people-to-people” relations between Liberia and the People’s Republic of China.

The Liberian team recorded an emphatic 17–1 victory over Guangxi Qinglong Weidian in their opening match. However, this result sparked criticism on social media, with some questioning why a young and promising team was competing against what appeared to be less competitive opposition.

Following further understanding of the tournament’s cultural purpose, many critics acknowledged that the competition is not solely about elite performance, but about unity, heritage, and exchange.

Liberia later secured a 5–2 win over Leishan Langde Miao Village Team, completing a successful outing in matches played over a weekend in April 2026.

Cultural Exchange and Experiences

Beyond football, the 19-member Liberian delegation—including players, coaches, and technical staff—described the trip as an invaluable cultural learning experience.

They visited Guiyang, where they toured modern digital and artificial intelligence centers, gaining insight into China’s technological advancements. They also explored historical and cultural sites in Rongjiang County, including minority communities that maintain strong traditional lifestyles.

One notable observation was the emphasis placed on women in certain local cultures, as well as the community’s commitment to preserving traditional housing despite modernization efforts supported by the government.

The delegation also experienced scenic boat rides reminiscent of those often depicted in Chinese films and visited ancient trees—some over a thousand years old.

Additionally, they saw major infrastructure projects, including one of the world’s longest bridges, leaving them impressed by China’s engineering capabilities.

The team also visited the Guizhou Institute of Technology, where they interacted with 24 Liberian students studying there. The students showcased their Chinese language skills through songs and presentations, highlighting the educational opportunities available.

Key Takeaways

The delegation described China as highly developed, with friendly and welcoming people. They emphasized that the experience went far beyond football, offering insights into culture, unity, and technological progress.

The team returned to Liberia on May 4, 2026, expressing gratitude to the Chinese Embassy for facilitating the trip. Delegation head Amos Kollie praised the opportunity and expressed hope for continued collaboration and opportunities for young Liberians.

He repeatedly noted that experiencing Chinese culture firsthand during the tournament revealed its uniqueness and depth.

The post Liberia’s Participation in Rongjiang Village Super League Highlights Cultural Unity first appeared on OK FM.

At a lively client hangout in Monrovia over the weekend, Mrs. Dodoo, founder and CEO of Lenise Home Care and Support Services, addressed a diverse group of clients—families, professionals, and business owners—reflecting on a journey that began just three years ago, in 2023, with a bold idea: to professionalize home care services while creating safe, dignified employment for young people, especially women.

“This is our first time bringing only our clients together,” Dodoo said. “We wanted to listen—not over the phone, but face-to-face. What are we doing right? What are we doing wrong? That’s how we improve and grow.”

From Startup to Growing Enterprise

What began with a client base of 70 to 75 has grown into a business now serving more than 180 households and businesses, steadily approaching 200. But for Dodoo, the numbers tell only part of the story.

Her mission is rooted in addressing unemployment and vulnerability among young Liberian women.

“We created this company to provide opportunities,” she explained. “Single mothers and young people who are willing to work—we train them, vet them, and connect them to families who need help. It’s not just business; it’s empowerment.”

Through Lenise, domestic workers—referred to as “agents”—receive training, background checks, and structured placement—a sharp contrast to Liberia’s largely informal domestic labor market.

A Two-Way Protection System

Mrs. Dodoo emphasized that her company, located along the Capitol Bypass in Monrovia, serves as both a bridge and a buffer between clients and workers.

“For clients, there’s peace of mind. If anything goes wrong, we take responsibility,” she said. “At the same time, our agents are protected—no abuse, no exploitation. We have contracts, and we enforce them.”

This dual accountability model is proving to be a game-changer in a sector often plagued by mistrust, wage disputes, and abuse.

Clients Speak: “It Gives You Relief”

For many clients, the impact is clear—and deeply personal.

Mrs. Markise Dolley, a client of nearly two years, described her experience as transformative.

“Before, I relied on community recommendations, but it was stressful,” she said. “Some would come just for quick money, then leave or misbehave. But with Lenise, it gives you relief.”

She said reliability has been the biggest difference.

“My housemaid has been with me for almost two years. That doesn’t happen often. Anytime there’s an issue, the company steps in and resolves it immediately.”

Madame Nelly Kettor-Borweh shared a similar experience.

“I struggled to find someone to care for my children,” she said. “Since I contacted Lenise, everything changed. Their agents are trained—they’re not just picked off the street.”

She emphasized the reduced risk.

“When you hire from the community, there’s a lot of liability. But with Lenise, that burden shifts to the company. You feel safe.”

Mrs. Enor Neufville echoed that sentiment.

“I’ve had bad experiences before—people stealing or disappearing,” she said. “Now, I feel secure. My home is safe, and that means everything.”

Building Trust

Trust, Mrs. Dodoo says, is the company’s most valuable currency.

“Every client who signs up is trusting us with their home, their children, and their lives,” she noted. “We don’t take that lightly.”

To maintain that trust, Lenise invests heavily in training—often self-funded—as well as monitoring systems and client feedback.

Early support came through a US$2,000 grant from the Youth Entrepreneurs Network, which helped the company acquire a motorbike to improve mobility and response time.

“That changed a lot for us,” Dodoo said. “We could finally do spot checks and respond faster.”

Expansion and Empowerment

Looking ahead, Dodoo is preparing to launch an Empowerment Center, now 80 percent complete, which will serve as a training hub and event space for up to 50 people.

“We want a space where we can continuously train and uplift people,” she said, while calling on NGOs and partners for support.

A Model for Liberia’s Future

In a challenging economic climate, Dodoo believes businesses must go beyond profit to create impact.

“We can’t leave everything to the government,” she said. “We have to create solutions—help people earn, live with dignity, and feel safe.”

For her clients, that vision is already becoming reality.

“They are doing a remarkable job,” Nelly said. “As a Liberian woman, it makes me proud to support another woman building something like this.”

Stakeholder Endorsement: “On the Path for Greatness”

Adding further credibility, Benjamin Dagher, President of the Youth Entrepreneurs Network Liberia (YEN-L), praised Lenise’s growth and innovation.

“We’ve worked with Lenise for over two years and have seen it grow from about 75 clients to well over 150,” he said. “That shows they are doing extremely well.”

Dagher noted that caregiving is not a luxury business, but one that requires trust, professionalism, and strong systems.

“This space demands care and consistency—and Lenise understands that,” he said.

Redefining Domestic Work

He highlighted the company’s innovative approach to domestic services.

“In the past, people simply picked workers from the community, with little structure or training,” he said. “Lenise has changed that.”

“They don’t just recruit—they train. Whether literate or not, individuals are equipped with essential skills to deliver professional caregiving services.”

According to Dagher, client testimonials at the event reflect that impact.

“These workers are not just placed—they are prepared. That’s the difference. That’s innovation.”

Building Skills Beyond the Company

Dagher also emphasized the broader impact of Lenise’s training programs, especially with the upcoming Empowerment Center.

“When you train people at that level, you’re building capacity for the entire community,” he said. “Even if they move on, those skills stay with them.”

He described Lenise as a model of sustainable entrepreneurship—one that creates lasting social value.

“Watch Out for What’s Next”

Looking ahead, Benjamin Dagher expressed confidence in the company’s future.

“Lenise is on the path for greatness,” he said. “This is a female-led business that is intentional about growth, sustainability, and service delivery.”

As the event closed to applause, one thing was clear: Mrs. Danise Dodoo is not just running a business—she is redefining an industry and restoring trust in a space where it has long been missing.

The post From Informal Domestic Work to Professional Care: How Danise Dodoo Is Building a Trusted Home Care Industry and Empowering Young Women in Liberia first appeared on OK FM.

The committee concluded its inaugural meeting in Monrovia on Tuesday, adopting its Terms of Reference and formalizing its leadership structure.

Madam Fatima Conneh-Farah, Chief Executive Officer of Joyce Frozen Food, was elected Co-Chair, representing the private sector. She will serve alongside the Director General of the Food Authority of Liberia, Madam Precellia Cherue, who chairs the committee.

The Food Safety Coordination Committee is designed as a national platform to unify stakeholders across government, the private sector, academia, and civil society. Its core mandate is to enhance the coherence, efficiency, and impact of food safety initiatives nationwide.

Among its key responsibilities, the committee will:

• Promote structured dialogue and policy alignment
• Guide the development and implementation of annual national food safety action plans
• Establish clear coordination mechanisms to prevent duplication of efforts
• Support evidence-based decision-making
• Provide a forum for strategic decisions on food safety priorities and investments

Speaking at the opening of the meeting, Chairperson Precellia Cherue emphasized that the committee’s success will be measured by tangible outcomes rather than the frequency of meetings.

“Food safety is not only a public health issue—it is also about consumer protection, economic development, and national confidence,” she said. “The Food Authority of Liberia is committed to ensuring this platform delivers real results.”

She also acknowledged the critical role of development partners in supporting Liberia’s transition from planning to implementation in food safety reforms.

Providing an overview of the initiative, Committee Secretary Mr. Thomas K. Nagbe highlighted longstanding challenges within Liberia’s food safety system, including fragmented institutional responsibilities, weak surveillance, and limited enforcement mechanisms.

He noted that increasing risks—driven by urbanization, informal food markets, and expanding trade—have underscored the urgency for a more coordinated national approach.

“The establishment of this committee is a decisive move to address coordination gaps, align institutional actions, and build a more coherent system that ensures safe food from market to table,” Nagbe said.

He added that the committee aims to strengthen regulatory coherence, improve accountability and transparency, and foster stronger collaboration among all stakeholders.

By the end of the inaugural meeting, members successfully endorsed the committee’s Terms of Reference, confirmed its structure, elected the private sector Co-Chair, and agreed on an operational roadmap for future activities.

The committee comprises institutions including government ministries (e.g., Health, Agriculture, and Commerce) and regulatory agencies such as the Food Authority of Liberia and the Liberia Standards Authority, among others.

Other members include private sector food producers and processors, consumer protection groups, and development partners (e.g., the EU and UNIDO).

The formation of the Food Safety Coordination Committee marks a significant milestone in Liberia’s efforts to modernize its food safety governance and protect public health.

The post Liberia Launches National Food Safety Coordination Committee to Strengthen Oversight first appeared on OK FM.

Operating under the banner “Give Liberia’s Economy Back to Liberians,” the group is demanding the full enforcement of the Liberianization Policy, including priority for Liberian-owned businesses in the awarding of contracts, access to long-term financing, and protection in strategic areas of the retail economy.

One of the organizers, James Emmanuel Brooks, delivered a blunt assessment of what he describes as a failing system that excludes Liberians from meaningful economic participation.

“We are Liberians, yet we are treated like spectators in our own country and observers in our own economy. That is unacceptable,” Brooks declared.

He argued that structural barriers—particularly within the banking sector—continue to undermine Liberian entrepreneurs.

“Our people are given short-term loans with high interest rates and then blamed when they cannot repay. How can businesses grow under such conditions?” he questioned.

Speaking with OK News over the weekend, Brooks, a former commissioner of Gardnerville Township, also took aim at monopolistic practices in the import sector, warning that the concentration of control in the hands of a few players is choking local enterprise.

“You cannot allow one group to import and control entire markets while others are shut out. That is not competition—it is monopoly, and it must end,” he said.

The movement further raised alarm over the widespread presence of foreign nationals in both large-scale and small-scale economic activities, from retail trade to mining operations.

“Everything is now in the hands of foreigners—from selling cold water to controlling major resources—while Liberians get little in return. That is wrong,” Brooks asserted.

Citing activities in mining regions, he questioned the level of local participation and the benefits accruing to ordinary citizens.

“Millions of dollars are being taken from our resources, yet Liberians are receiving peanuts. Where is the benefit for our people?” he asked.

While clarifying that the movement is not opposed to foreign investment, Brooks emphasized the need for stronger regulation and national interest protections.

“We are not against foreign partners, but the system must work for Liberians first. Our resources must benefit our people,” he added.

The group is now calling on the government to review concession agreements, dismantle monopolies, and implement policies that guarantee inclusive economic participation.

It also pledged to engage national stakeholders and push for reforms aimed at restoring economic control to Liberians.

Founded recently, the “Give Liberia’s Economy Back to Liberians” movement obtained its articles of incorporation over the weekend and is expected to officially launch in the coming weeks.

The post “We Are Spectators in Our Own Country” — New Civil Society Movement Calls for Liberian Control of Economy first appeared on OK FM.

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.

Speaking at the occasion, the People’s Republic of China’s ambassador, Ren Yisheng, praised the several projects his country is currently working on in Liberia. With the two countries’ connection, Ambassador Yisheng thinks China will continue to play a friendly role to make sure Liberia understands the friendship. The project is located at the famous SKD Sports Complex in Paynesville.

“Given that there are up to 85 million disabled persons in China, we don’t regret doing this for the Liberian disabled population, and while this is a minor project, I think we will have a better one in the future.”

First open-air wheelchair basketball court
Founder and president of the Liberia Wheelchair Basketball Federation, Ambassador Lionel Johnson, stated that he is currently the happiest man in Liberia and said that it is beyond his wildest dreams to see a court constructed for his fellow disabled people. He asserts that the federation will hold its inaugural national league with six clubs due to the well-prepared facilities.

“I must express my gratitude to the government of Liberia and the People’s Republic of China for their continued support to our federation. As you can see, we have a brand-new facility to perform all of our activities here in peace, which makes me quite delighted.”

Meanwhile, Youth and Sports Minister Zeogar Wilson said the government does not provide funding for federations but subsidies. He added that federations and associations lobbying for their own sponsors is welcome.

“We will play our part as a government, but remember, we can’t do everything for all the federations and associations.”

The post GoL in Partnership with China Dedicates First Wheelchair Basketball Court in Liberia first appeared on OK FM.

James says the reduction has made life unbearable.

“I have to do slashing work before I eat,” he says. “After working all my life, this is not how I expected to live.”

James also says Firestone ended his health benefits and removed his children from the company’s school.

“That money cannot even take me to the clinic and back. When we were strong, we gave the company our strength. Now that we are weak, we are on our own,” says David Lacky, another Firestone retiree who worked for the company for over twenty-eight years.

Lacky says he retired with a US$209 monthly benefit but now receives only five dollars. He says, “They mentioned the law, but they never showed us how the law reduced our money.”

Their testimonies were shared during a February 14 meeting in Harbel, Margibi County, where about one hundred retired Firestone workers gathered to draft a resolution demanding the restoration of what they call their full benefits.

Reading from the resolution, retiree Mulbah Kekulah said the reductions were carried out without proper explanation or education.

“We were never taken through the process,” Kekulah said. “We want transparency, and we want what is due to us.”

Many of the retirees say decades of physically demanding plantation labor have left them with chronic health conditions. They also claim that after retirement, their children were removed from Firestone-operated schools, and their health insurance benefits were discontinued.

The group says it previously pursued legal action against Firestone and won in court but maintains that the ruling has not translated into meaningful financial relief.

Beyond the company, the retirees are directing their frustration at President Joseph Boakai. They say that during the 2023 campaign, then Unity Party standard bearer Boakai sought their votes and pledged to intervene in their long-running pension dispute.

But almost three years into his administration, they say he has not returned or sent word to them.

Rev. Kafa Teah, Chairman of the All Retired Citizens Association of Liberia, said the retirees feel abandoned.

“The president is not listening to us,” Rev. Teah said. “We saw him as someone who would hear our cry. Today, retirees across Liberia are struggling.

Teah says they are still waiting for the president’s promise to become action. He promised retirees that he will not get tired until their plights are addressed.

Firestone has yet to provide an official response on the matter, although the company was contacted before publication.

Until there is an official explanation from Firestone, the retirees insist they will not back down until their benefits are restored and the president acts on the commitment they say he made to them.

The post Nearly Three Years After Election, Firestone Retirees Say President Boakai Has Yet to Act on Their Benefit Promise, Claim They Are Dying in Poverty. first appeared on OK FM.

The Oilers were crowned alongside Commissioners, who emerged champions of the Women’s Division. Bushrod Dreams clinched the Male Second Division title, while Spark Giants secured the Third Division championship.

The ceremony attracted high-profile personalities, including veteran players, technical staff, administrators, and scores of supporters and stakeholders.

The highlight of the evening was Fedolph Marshall being named the First Division Most Valuable Player (MVP). Several individual awards were also presented.

In the First Division, Mohammed Keita of Mighty Barrolle won Highest Assist and Highest Scorer; Jeror Tarwo of NPA Pythons earned Highest Block; Marshall of LPRC Oilers secured Highest Rebounder and Highest Steal; and John Davids of Mighty Barrolle was recognized as Highest Pointer. Varfley Corney of LPRC Oilers was named Best Coach, while James Jappah of LPRC Oilers earned President of the Year honors. NPA Pythons finished as runner-up.

In the Women’s Division, Meagan Yanford of D-Rockas won Highest Assist; Sarah Kromah of Highlander Female earned Highest Block; Brialliant Quayee of Commissioners claimed Highest Rebounder; Fanta Jalloh of Commissioners took Highest Steal; Korpo Sumo of Commissioners won Highest Pointer and was named Most Valuable Player; and Ginny Johnson of D-Rockas secured Highest Scorer. Moses Simpson of Commissioners was named Best Coach, while George Wilson was honored as President of the Year. D-Rockas finished as runner-up.

In the Second Division, Ayouba Swaray of Bushrod Dreams won Highest Assist, Highest Scorer, and Most Valuable Player. George Selle of Kakata Rockets, Augustine Lomax of Knight Reapers (Highest Block and Highest Rebounder), and Terry Anderson of Bushrod Dreams were also recognized. Momolu Dukuly of Bushrod Dreams was named President of the Year, with Knight Reapers finishing as runner-up.

Third Division awardees included Henry Philip of Spark Giants (Highest Assist and MVP); Kamara Kosso of Highlander Male (Highest Block and Highest Scorer); David Evans of D-14 Warriors (Highest Rebounder); and Jonathan Tuazama of Spark Giants (Highest Steal). Gaye Tuazama was named Coach of the Year, Aaron Neymah Club President of the Year, and Highway Prince runner-up.

Womi Tarpeh was named Fan of the Year, while DOC Africa received Corporate Sponsor of the Year honors.

Meanwhile, LBA President Abraham B. Samukai praised stakeholders, referees, the executive committee, the Liberia National Olympic Committee, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports for their commitment to basketball in Liberia.

In his address, Samukai described the 2024/2025 season as “a remarkable journey marked by progress, resilience, and historic milestones.”

“This season, the Liberia Basketball Association successfully hosted the 2025 National League across four divisions — First Division, Women’s Division, Second Division, and Third Division. The smooth organization of competitions across these categories demonstrates our administrative capacity and commitment to inclusive participation,” he said.

Highlighting international achievements, he noted, “We proudly hosted the FIBA U-16 Zone 3 Qualifiers for both male and female categories. I am especially proud that our female team made us proud, while our U-16 male team achieved a historic milestone by ranking 9th in Africa — a significant leap that signals the rising potential of our young athletes.”

On governance, he added, “We held a successful Congress where a new Constitution was approved, strengthening our governance framework. Additionally, a budget was endorsed, laying the financial roadmap for our operations and development agenda.”

Samukai emphasized capacity building, stating, “This year, we trained 30 coaches who successfully qualified as FIBA Level One coaches. Furthermore, one referee was certified as a local FIBA trainer, positioning Liberia to independently build the capacity of our match officials.”

He also disclosed that construction of dressing rooms had begun to improve facilities for players and officials, and that Liberia was represented at the FIBA Congress in Bahrain to ensure the country’s voice is heard in international basketball governance.

However, he acknowledged existing challenges.

“The development of basketball in Liberia continues to suffer from inadequate support. Financial constraints have significantly limited our ability to execute programs at full capacity. The Association remains highly indebted to vendors following the hosting of international tournaments—obligations we must honor,” he stated.

He further stressed the need for sustained investment in technical development and infrastructure, noting that coaches, referees, statisticians, and table officials require continuous training to meet international standards.

“These constraints are real — but they are not insurmountable. Basketball in Liberia is growing. Our youth are passionate. Our players are talented. Our administrators are committed,” Samukai declared.

He called for stronger partnerships and collaboration from government, the private sector, and development partners.

“As we close this league season, let us remember that basketball is more than a game. It is discipline. It is unity. It is opportunity. It is national pride,” he concluded.

For his part, Deputy Minister for Sports, G. Andy Quamie appealed to the Liberia Basketball Association (LBA) to reconsider the suspension of the NPA Pythons for failing to honor their final game in the best-of-five championship series against the LPRC Oilers.

The deputy minister called for reconciliation and dialogue, emphasizing the importance of unity and sportsmanship in the development of basketball in Liberia.

“Basketball is about discipline and respect for the rules, but it is also about inclusion and second chances,” Quamie said. “I am appealing to the leadership of the LBA to look into the matter concerning the NPA Pythons and consider reinstating the team in the interest of fairness and the growth of the game.”

He noted that while regulations must be upheld, the broader objective should be to strengthen the league and maintain healthy competition.

The Deputy Minister further assured the Association of the Ministry’s continued support in promoting discipline, dialogue, and development within the sport.

The post LPRC Oilers Crowned 2025 LBA Champions at Colorful SKD Ceremony first appeared on OK FM.

The colorful launching ceremony took place on Friday, February 6, 2026, in Monrovia, bringing together scores of farmers, agricultural stakeholders, government officials, and development partners from across Liberia.

Launching the cooperative on behalf of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Deputy Minister for Public Affairs at the Ministry of State, Mr. Anthony Kesselley described agriculture as a central pillar of the president’s development agenda.

“President Boakai places high priority on agriculture because it is the backbone of national development and food security,” Deputy Minister Kesselley said.

“This initiative aligns perfectly with the government’s vision to empower farmers, increase local food production, and reduce our dependence on imported food.”

He emphasized that the president remains deeply concerned about the welfare of Liberian farmers and has outlined a clear roadmap aimed at revitalizing and modernizing the agricultural sector.

“We must move from subsistence farming to sustainable agribusiness,” he added. “Liberia has fertile land and hardworking farmers. What we need now is structure, support, and strategic investment — and this cooperative is a step in the right direction.”

Providing an overview of the cooperative’s vision and objectives, the Board Chairman of WFI, Dr. John Wulu, highlighted the urgent need for transformation within Liberia’s agricultural sector.

“Our farmers face enormous challenges, including limited access to modern farming tools, financing, technical training, and reliable markets,” Dr. Wulu stated. “This cooperative was established to bridge those gaps and create real opportunities for growth and productivity.”

Dr. Wulu explained that the cooperative aims to organize farmers into a unified structure that will enhance productivity, improve bargaining power, and facilitate access to essential resources.

“This is not just a project; it is a movement to restore dignity to Liberian farmers and reposition agriculture as a profitable and sustainable sector,” he said.

Also speaking at the program, the Chief Executive Officer of the cooperative, Lincoln Cooper, reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to supporting farmers through innovative programs, capacity-building initiatives, and partnerships with both local and international stakeholders.

“Our goal is to increase food production, enhance farmers’ livelihoods, and contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s economic development,” the CEO noted. “Through collaboration, modern farming techniques, and strategic investment, we can feed our nation and create employment opportunities for thousands of Liberians.”

Stakeholders at the event expressed optimism that, once fully operational and successfully implemented, the initiative will significantly strengthen Liberia’s food security and generate substantial employment within the agricultural sector.

Observers believe that if the project achieves its intended objectives, it could drastically reduce — and potentially end — Liberia’s heavy reliance on imported food commodities.

With renewed commitment from both government and private stakeholders, the launch of the World Foundation International Multi-Purpose Agriculture Cooperative marks a significant step toward transforming Liberia’s agricultural landscape and advancing the national agenda of self-sufficiency and economic empowerment.

The post World Foundation International Multi-Purpose Agriculture Cooperative Launched Under “Feed the Nation: Rescue Farmers” Theme first appeared on OK FM.