The Chairman of the Liberia Land Authority (LLA), Hon. Samuel F. Kpakio, has reaffirmed the Authority’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and institutional reform aimed at transforming Liberia’s land sector.
Speaking Thursday at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT) regular press briefing in Monrovia, Chairman Kpakio provided updates on the progress and ongoing developments at the LLA since his appointment in February 2025.
He began by expressing gratitude to President Joseph N. Boakai for the confidence reposed in him and his team to lead the Authority during what he described as a “pivotal phase of institutional reform and transformation.”
Chairman Kpakio disclosed that the LLA has completed a comprehensive set of new regulations designed to strengthen its institutional framework and improve service delivery. He emphasized that the Authority remains fully committed to supporting the Government’s ARREST Agenda, noting that effective land governance is vital to peace, security, and economic growth.
“While challenges remain, sustained support for the LLA will yield significant long-term benefits,” he said. “It will enhance revenue generation, promote national stability, and improve transparency and accountability in land management.”
According to Kpakio, the LLA’s current priorities include streamlining land administration processes—such as mapping, deed registration, and land valuation—resolving land disputes, and strengthening tenure security by formalizing customary land rights.
“These efforts will empower communities and landholders to invest confidently in their properties and contribute to social and economic development,” he added.
In a major announcement, the LLA Chairman revealed that the Authority will officially launch the new National Deed Form on November 1, 2025, with a one-month transition period ending December 1, 2025.
He also outlined several new policy instruments and operational guidelines recently developed by the LLA, including:
Interim Guidelines for Temporary Occupancy Permits (formerly “Squatters’ Rights”);
Interim Guidelines for Validating Tribal Certificates;
Interim Guidelines for the Sale and Lease of Public Land; and
A new Fee Regime for land-related services.
Addressing public concerns over unlawful land activities, Chairman Kpakio disclosed that the LLA has launched an investigation into allegations involving Mr. Blamah Wright, accused of illegal land transactions, land grabbing, and the use of threats against residents in communities such as Caldwell, Johnsonville, Louisiana, White Plains, and King’s Farm.
He confirmed that Mr. Wright has submitted himself to the investigation, which is ongoing, and assured the public that findings will be made public upon completion.
Kpakio lauded international partners for their continued support to Liberia’s land sector. He highlighted the Government of Sweden’s Sustainable Land Services for Liberia (SLSL) Project, under which officers in four counties have received Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) training to manage land conflicts more effectively.
The project has also provided 12 motorbikes to land officers across six counties, enhanced the Land Administration System (LAS), and improved IT infrastructure with the installation of Starlink Internet in Grand Bassa, Margibi, and Bong Counties.
Additionally, through support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the LLA recently facilitated the handover of customary land deeds to 23 communities in Nimba, Grand Cape Mount, and Bomi Counties — a milestone in securing community land rights.
The LLA has also signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with South Korean firms ALLFORLAND and LIMETRIC to develop the Liberia Land Information System (LIS) — a modern digital platform aimed at revolutionizing land administration and promoting transparency.
Chairman Kpakio disclosed that the LLA recently represented Liberia at the African Land Institutions Network (ALIN) Conference, held from October 14–16, 2025, in Freetown, Sierra Leone. The gathering brought together over 100 delegates from across Africa under the theme “Strengthening Land Institutions for Inclusive Growth and Resilience.”
He noted that Liberia’s innovations and community-driven approaches to land governance — particularly those empowering women and youth — were showcased as a model for other African nations.
In closing, Chairman Kpakio reaffirmed that the Liberia Land Authority remains unwavering in its dedication to serving the Liberian people with transparency, accountability, and integrity.
“Together, with the continued support of our government, partners, and citizens, we will build a land sector that promotes peace, ensures justice, and fosters sustainable development for all Liberians.