people present as proof of land ownership which he
says causing some of the problems in communities
The Liberia Land Authority (LLA) and the Land Governance Support Activity (LGSA) completed an incredible two-month awareness campaign throughout Liberia on the Land Rights Bill and the Act Against the Criminal Conveyance of Land. Liberians throughout the country yearn for secure land rights. They want equal and secure access to land that allows them to be
Liberians throughout the country yearn for secure land rights. They want equal and secure access to land that allows them to be landowners, not just users. Citizens also want harmonized boundaries, which will reduce disputes and fighting over land occurring among families, friends, and neighbors.
However, all over the country, there is very low awareness and knowledge on land issues, so it was no surprise that local residents praised and appreciated the awareness campaign held by LGSA and LLA.
“We have learned so many things on land today, and we want to assure you that our new knowledge [on criminal conveyance] will be implemented accordingly. It is better to avoid going to court because it is expensive and time consuming. We can handle our land cases in the community through mediation,” said Hon. Stephen A. Gwee, Mayor of Totota.
The Mayor of Totota is optimistic that, through LGSA and the LLA’s campaign, he has learned enough to improve how he deals with land cases in his city, and he is calling on local leaders in all the counties to prioritize managing land issues to prevent conflicts.
He added that with the knowledge provided on the double sale of land, it’s about time that Liberians confront the problems directly and quickly.
“Most of us leaders know the real problems when it comes to land business, but we can be acting like we don’t know or are hiding from it. We even know the main people that are causing the problems but for some reason, we can be afraid to confront them. Let’s face the problems and deal with it. Simple!” – Hon. Gwee
He further noted that if leaders are sincere to themselves and the people they serve, forgetting about family ties and selfish personal interests, the development of Liberia will go a long way and people will no longer fight over land.
“This is what I am committed to. And with this renewed committed, this city will be a better place. Thanks to the Land Authority and USAID.” – Hon. Gwee