House Speaker, Richard Nagbe Koon, on Friday, July 3, 2025, delivered the keynote address at the graduation ceremony of the Liberia Institute of Certified Public Accountants (LICPA).
Over 33 Certified Professional Public Sector Accountants (PPSAs), including Margibi County Electoral District #5 Representative, Clarence Gahr, received certificates under the African Professionalization Initiative (API).
Koon congratulated the graduates for their commitment and successful completion of the training program.
He also commended LICPA and its partners for contributing to the country’s leadership in public sector professionalization.
“There are many certified public accountants in high places in government and private institutions, yet, you preferred us. We appreciate your preference and celebrate this milestone with you,” Speaker Koon said.
He proudly announced that Liberia has become the first country in Africa to graduate a full cohort of Certified Professional Public Sector Accountants under the API, describing the achievement as a ‘historic moment that places the country at the forefront of professional public financial management on the continent.’
“Today’s graduation is not just a celebration of academic excellence; it is a declaration of the country’s leadership in upholding international standards and transparency in public finance,” he said.
Koon is an accountant by profession and professor. He holds double masters and a certified Public Accountant papers- He is currently a candidate for a terminal degree.
He spoke on the theme: “Celebrating Excellence: Creating Value for the Public Sector.”
The initiative aims to empower Liberians to obtain globally recognized certifications such as ACCA, CIA, and CFE, advancing the country’s standing in the global professional community.
The LICPA graduation ceremony brought together senior government officials, professional accountants, international partners, and family members of the graduates in celebration of a new era in public sector accounting and governance.