The Executive Director of the Women Non-Governmental Organization Secretariat of Liberia (WONGOSOL)has called for citizens’ participation in policy decision-making to be prioritized in the country’s developmental processes.
Director Esther S. Davis Yango said involving citizens in the formulation and implementation of public policies is essential to ensuring that national development initiatives reflect the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the people.
Director Yango made the assertion over the weekend at the end of a two- day multi-stakeholders policy dialogue on transparency, accountability and citizens participation for inclusive development organized by the Governance Commission for good Governance Month for 2026 held at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town outside Monrovia.
She highlighted the importance of inclusive governance, in which citizens, including women, young people, and marginalized communities, are given opportunities to contribute to decisions that affect their lives and communities.
According to her, public participation in decision-making can help strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust in government institutions while promoting sustainable development across Liberia.
Director Yango stressed the need for policymakers to engage communities and civil society organizations during the development of policies and programs to ensure that local concerns are adequately considered.
She pointed out that the Women Non-Governmental Organization Secretariat of Liberia advocates for the inclusion of women and other underrepresented groups in national development discussions, recognizing their role in shaping policies that promote equality and improve living conditions.
Director Yango underscored the importance of creating more opportunities for citizens to engage government institutions, contribute ideas, and monitor the implementation of development programs.
She asserted that the ongoing discussions about inclusive governance and the need to ensure that development initiatives benefit citizens across the country should be implemented.
She warned against neglecting citizens concerns and recommendations during around tables discussions to transform the growth and development s of the nation.
Director Yango emphasized that it is about the policy makers in government institutions to considers these discussions of the citizens across the country to move developments of Liberia forward.
