By Emmanuel Koffa
The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL) has taken a major step toward grassroots economic empowerment with the launch of a Financial Education and Literacy Campaign in Grand Kru County, targeting community leaders, market actors, youth groups, and vulnerable populations.
The initiative began with the training of over fifteen local residents who will serve as Financial Literacy Ambassadors, tasked with taking financial education directly into communities across the county.
Speaking during the training, Nathaniel B. Toe, Deputy Head of the Corporate Communications Section at the Central Bank of Liberia, said the program is designed to change people’s everyday financial behavior at the household and community levels.
“This initiative is about empowering people with practical knowledge they can use every day—how to plan, how to budget, and how to manage their money wisely,” Mr. Toe said.
He explained that the training brought together a broad cross-section of society, including the joint security, persons with disabilities, youth representatives, business operators, market women, motorcyclists, farmers, health workers, educators, the media, and civil society organizations.
According to Mr. Toe, participants were trained in key areas such as income management, household budgeting, spending control, and customer protection.
“When people understand their income and expenses, they are better positioned to avoid unnecessary spending and protect themselves financially,” he noted.
The official launch, held at the Barclayville City Hall on Thursday, January 22, 2026, drew more than 500 participants from Barclayville and surrounding communities.
At the ceremony, Mr. Toe challenged the trained ambassadors to ensure that the program reaches even the most remote parts of the county.
“You are the bridge between the Central Bank and your communities. Take this knowledge everywhere and help change harmful financial habits,” he urged.
He added that financial discipline remains a key driver of both personal progress and community development.
“Economic empowerment starts with planning, budgeting, and discipline. These are the foundations of financial stability,” Mr. Toe emphasized.
Participants welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and practical.
Many pledged to apply the lessons learned and to share the information with family members, colleagues, and community groups.
They also commended the Government of Liberia and the Central Bank of Liberia for prioritizing financial education as a pathway to improved livelihoods and economic stability.