By Domingo Dargbeh
On Wednesday, December 3, 2025, the Liberia Land Authority (LLA) officially launched a two-day high-level dialogue at a resort in Monrovia.
The dialogue is to strengthen land governance, mandate, functions and powers of the Authority.
It was held with national and local authorities with the aim to amend Title 12 of the Executive Law of the Liberian Codes of Law, and establish a new chapter for LLA.
The event is expected to foster significant discussions on land governance and management.
LLA Chairman Samuel Kpakio, underscored the importance of the dialogue for good governance and national development.
Kpakio said, the dialogue comes at a crucial time in Liberia’s journey toward effective land administration.
“Our purpose here for the next two days is not to find blame, but to educate, align, and rebuild the collaborative spirit envisioned by both the Land Authority Act, and the Land Rights Act.”
The dialogue seeks to address the challenges faced since the establishment of the LLA, which consolidated various land functions from previous government entities in 2016.
Despite the progress made, Kpakio pointed out significant gaps that persist in the transfer of functions to the LLA, which have led to ongoing land conflicts, and mismanagements across the country.
Head of Developmental Cooperation at the Swedish Embassy in Monrovia, Kerstin Johsson Cisse proxied for the Ambassador.
Madam Cisse underscored the crucial role of the LLA in shaping land management and governance.
She reiterated Sweden’s commitment to support Liberia in achieving fair, transparent, and accountable land governance.
“The collaboration between the LLA and Swedish authorities, is pivotal in ensuring that land management and revenue collection align with national development goals.”
Participants include representatives from various governmental and non-governmental organizations, including members of the legislature.
They were invited to share their insights and recommendations on how to improve land governance structures.
Senator Simeon Taylor, Chair of the Senate Committee on Land, Natural Resources and Environment.
Taylor also contributed to the discussions, highlighting the need for clear demarcation of land boundaries, and the importance of community awareness regarding land rights.
He said ongoing confusion regarding land ownership continues to lead to conflicts and instability.
“Too many people do not know the laws surrounding land ownership and rights. We must engage with communities to ensure they understand their rights and the legal frameworks that govern land transactions.”
The two-day dialogue will include plenary sessions, and breakout discussions.
It is to ensure that every voice is heard, and that actionable solutions are developed.
Key topics will include the legal frameworks governing land registration, surveying, zoning, and property valuation, as well as addressing the persistent delays in the transfer of functions to the LLA.
The outcomes of this dialogue are anticipated to pave the way for more effective land governance and reduced conflicts over land ownership in the future.