For Karzah Section In Liberia’s Lofa County
By Tokpa M. Tarnue
VOINJAMA, Liberia- As part of effects to strengthening community development and sustainable land ownership, the Liberia Land Authority (LLA) in collaboration with ForumCiv Liberia and its partner Social Empowerment through Learning Liberia (SELL) and with support from the government of over the weekend officially handed over a land deed to the Karzah Section here in the northwestern Lofa County.
Funding came from Ireland through its International Development Program.
The ceremony marked a milestone in the ongoing efforts to empower local communities through education, capacity building, and inclusive development initiatives.
The event brought together local authorities, community leaders, representatives from ForumCiv Liberia, SELL and beneficiaries of the program.
In an opening statement, the National Coordinator of SELL, Thomas Dowuna indicated that the land deed handover symbolizes not only the recognition of Kazzah Section’s rightful ownership but also the advancement of secure land tenure as a foundation for long-term social and economic growth.
Also speaking, ForumCiv Liberia Country Manager, Asa D Chon emphasized the importance of land ownership in promoting community resilience and sustainable livelihoods.
“This initiative is part of our broader commitment to ensure that communities have the knowledge, rights, and resources to manage their land responsibly and inclusively,” he further stated.
He said, the Government of Ireland’s International Development Program has been instrumental in supporting ForumCiv’s efforts to build local capacity through social empowerment and learning.
The program he said, focused on equipping communities with the skills and understanding necessary to engage in sustainable land management, gender equality, and participatory governance.
Presenting the deed to citizens of the section, the the Liberia Land Administrator for Lofa County, William Zayzay praised citizens of the section for their commitment throughout the process.
“Today, you are officially receiving the legal status; however, let me remind you that you cannot sell this land,” Mr Zayzay added.
He said, the government of Liberia through the Liberia Land Administrator us committed to working with communities across the country in legalizing the customary land.
Citizens of Kazzah Section through their local leaders expressed gratitude for the support, noting that the land deed will enhance their ability to plan and implement community-driven projects.
“This is a new chapter for our people,” said Mr. Gayflor Sarke, a community elder.
He noted that with secure land ownership and the knowledge gained through the empowerment program, they can now invest confidently in agriculture, education, and development.
The initiative aligns with Liberia’s broader national agenda for inclusive growth and rural development. By combining legal empowerment with education and capacity building, ForumCiv Liberia and the Government of Ireland aim to create a model for sustainable community transformation that can be replicated across other regions.
The handover ceremony concluded with cultural performances and a reaffirmation of the community’s commitment to use the land responsibly for the benefit of current and future generations.
ForumCiv is a Swedish civil society organization working globally to strengthen people’s rights and promote sustainable development through advocacy, capacity building, and partnerships while the Government of Ireland’s International Development Program supports global efforts to reduce poverty, promote equality, and foster sustainable development through partnerships with local and international organizations.