141621d3

ALJA Elects New National Leadership at 13th National Convention

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 07:00:13 GMT

The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) today conducted elections for its national leadership during the organization’s 13th National Convention, being held in the City of Greenbelt, Maryland.

Mr. Joey Kennedy was re-elected as National President, while Mr. Volcano Shelton was elected National Vice President. Other officials elected include Mr. Successful Minor, National Secretary-General, and Ms. Lisa Willie, National Treasurer. Mr. Lincoln Bryant was elected as a Permanent Member of the ALJA Board of Directors.

The three executive officers were elected to serve a two-year term, while Mr. Bryant will serve a three-year term on the Board.

The newly elected leadership will be inducted into office during the inaugural dinner scheduled for this evening at Martin’s Crosswinds in Greenbelt.

Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan II, will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony on the Theme: “Private Sector Investment: A Key to Sustainable Economic Growth and Development in Liberia — The Role of the Media”

Founded in 1998, the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) is a non-profit organization comprising current and former Liberian journalists residing in the United States. The organization promotes press freedom, good governance, and professional development while fostering stronger ties between Liberian media practitioners at home and abroad.

Finance Minister Ngafuan Urges Balanced Reporting to Boost Investor Confidence In Liberia

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 07:00:02 GMT

Speaking at the 13th National Convention of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA), Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, called on journalists to embrace balanced and objective reporting to strengthen investor confidence and drive sustainable economic growth in Liberia.

The convention, themed “Private Sector Investment: A Key to Sustainable Economic Growth and Development in Liberia: The Role of the Media,” brought together veteran Liberian journalists, government officials, and friends of Liberia in Greenbelt, Maryland, USA. Among the attendees were ALJA National President Joey Kennedy, Minister of Information Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, and representatives from media institutions across the U.S. and Liberia.

Minister Ngafuan opened his keynote by recognizing the historical significance of ALJA, founded in 1998 by eminent Liberian journalists, including Isaac Bantu, Kenneth Y. Best, and the late Patrick Manjoe. “Addressing journalists is always a challenge,” Ngafuan said, “but speaking to veterans who have earned the trust and respect of Liberians at home and abroad is an immense honor.”

He emphasized the critical link between media reporting and private sector investment, noting that the perceptions created by news coverage can significantly impact investor decisions. “Media institutions that are bent on sensationalism or half-truths may inadvertently portray our country as unstable when, in reality, Liberia is making remarkable progress,” Ngafuan said. He cited the tragic example of Rwanda in 1994 to underscore the power of irresponsible reporting in fueling social unrest.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to fostering private sector-led growth, the minister outlined the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), launched by President Joseph Nyuma Boakai in January 2025. The five-year national plan aims to propel Liberia to lower-middle-income status, increase GDP per capita from $849 to $1,050, and reduce multidimensional poverty from 45% to 36%.

“The AAID envisions a vibrant, resilient economy driven by private sector investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship,” Ngafuan said. He explained that the plan identifies key sectors—including agriculture, infrastructure, rule of law, education, health, and tourism—as drivers of inclusive growth.

Ngafuan provided concrete examples of progress under the AAID. In agriculture, over 150 farmers in Bong, Gbarpolu, Margibi, and Montserrado counties received seed rice and fertilizers to cultivate 470 hectares of lowland rice under the Emergency Rice Production Offensive. Mechanization hubs are being constructed in five counties, and irrigation systems are underway in Grand Gedeh and Maryland counties.

On infrastructure, he highlighted the construction and rehabilitation of 145 kilometers of primary roads, improvements to urban and community roads, and the decentralization of National Transit Authority services to reduce transportation costs. In energy, electricity access has risen from 33% to 37%, aided by new distribution lines and the near completion of a 20MW solar farm at Mt. Coffee.

Ngafuan also stressed that these government initiatives create ample opportunities for private sector investment. “Any credible investor looking to do business in Liberia over the next five years should have a copy of the AAID and study Liberia’s approved budgets and procurement plans,” he said, emphasizing the strong link between government development plans and private sector growth.

To further support private investment, the government has partnered with development organizations such as the European Union, African Development Bank, World Bank, and U.S. Development Finance Corporation. Initiatives include the Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank, designed to support 30,000 youth-led businesses and generate up to 120,000 jobs over 20 years, and a €25 million Private Sector Development Project to strengthen sectors like cassava, fisheries, and wood processing.

On the role of the media, Ngafuan urged journalists to promote Liberia’s investment potential, highlighting entrepreneurial success stories, providing in-depth coverage of business trends, analyzing policies, and investigating corruption or operational barriers. “Journalists or influencers of public opinion should consider themselves trustees for the public and uphold the tenets of the Journalist’s Creed,” he said, quoting the creed:

“I believe that the public journal is a public trust; that all connected with it are, to the full measure of their responsibility, trustees for the public; that acceptance of lesser service than the public service is betrayal of this trust. I believe that clear thinking and clear statement, accuracy and fairness, are fundamental to good journalism. I believe that a journalist should write only what he holds in his heart to be true. I believe that suppression of the news, for any consideration other than the welfare of society, is indefensible.”

Ngafuan also called on the media to uphold objectivity when reporting on government initiatives. “Corruption and other vices must be exposed, but reporting must not be driven by ulterior motives to malign innocent personalities or demand compromise fees,” he said. He urged journalists to report both achievements and shortcomings in government to provide a balanced, fair perspective.

The minister shared a personal reflection on the positive influence of the media in his formative years, recounting how his late father, despite limited means, purchased newspapers, a radio, and a television to keep him informed. “Reading news stories and following broadcasts by stalwarts like Rufus Darpoh, Kenneth Y. Best, and Tom Kamara helped shape my vision, diction, and articulation. I can proudly say I am what I am today because of the positive impact of the Liberian media,” he said.

Ngafuan concluded by urging ALJA and the Press Union of Liberia to adapt to a rapidly evolving media landscape, including the rise of citizen journalism, social media influencers, and AI technology. “The media landscape is fast evolving, and so too must your institutions. Spreading the tenets of good journalism benefits the entire society,” he said.

He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting private sector growth and strengthening partnerships with the media. “Being good trustees for the public, whether in government or in the media, is essential for investment, economic growth, and national development. To make Liberia better, we all must do better,” Minister Ngafuan said.

VOA’s James Butty Highlights Role of Media in Promoting Liberia’s Economic Development

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 17:28:20 GMT

Veteran journalist James Butty of the Voice of America (VOA) has underscored the critical role of the Liberian media in promoting private sector investment and sustainable economic development. Speaking during the plenary session of the 13th Annual Convention of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA), Mr. Butty emphasized that despite the many challenges confronting the Liberian media, journalists must continue to uphold the highest ethical and professional standards.

Citing The Asian Thinker, a research journal on social sciences and humanities, Mr. Butty outlined the essential roles of the media in advancing national development, including:

Raising public awareness and understanding of development goals.
Using social media to foster discussion and citizen engagement.
Uncovering corruption and abuses through accurate and balanced reporting.
Holding governments and institutions accountable for progress—or lack thereof—on development projects.

Mr. Butty commended the Liberian media for consistently reporting on national development plans launched by successive governments. However, he stressed the need for journalists to go beyond announcements and track the progress of these projects until completion. “The media must remain independent and professional, creating an environment that fosters inclusive growth and private sector confidence,” he said.

Challenges in the Liberian Media Sector

Mr. Butty highlighted findings from journalism lecturer Danicius Kaihenneh Sengbeh and Press Union of Liberia (PUL) President Julius Kanubah, who both identified serious challenges confronting the media. These include financial instability, low salaries, lack of health insurance, government interference, erosion of ethics, political polarization, and the rise of pseudo-journalism on social media.

To address these shortcomings, both experts recommended that the PUL update and enforce its Code of Ethics, sanction practitioners who misuse their platforms, establish national standards for journalism, and reactivate the National Media Council for oversight and dispute resolution.

The Role of ALJA

Mr. Butty also outlined ways ALJA can support media development, including:

Sponsoring regular training programs on independence, integrity, and accountability.
Advocating against laws that criminalize free expression.
Promoting professional exchanges and collaboration.
Publicizing instances of government interference in journalism.

Mr. Butty concluded by reminding Liberian journalists that while today’s financial challenges are significant, they are not as severe as those faced in past decades when imprisonment, censorship, and even arson against media houses were common.

He urged young journalists to remain resilient and committed to their profession: “The road to professionalism is paved with sacrifice. Independence is the cornerstone of credibility, and no journalist should compromise that.”

The 13th Annual ALJA Convention, held in Greenbelt, Maryland, is being convened under the theme: “Private Sector Investment: A Key to Sustainable Economic Growth and Development in Liberia – The Role of the Media.”

ALJA to Host 13th National Convention in Greenbelt, Maryland — With Focus on Private Sector Investment and Liberia’s Economic Growth

Fri, 10 Oct 2025 03:33:52 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

New Paragraph

Landmark Address at the ALJA National Convention Delivered by Representative Naquetta Ricks

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 05:20:47 GMT

In a landmark address delivered at the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas - ALJA convention held in Minnesota over the weekend, Representative Naquetta Ricks underscored the indispensable role of the media in Liberia’s forthcoming pivotal elections scheduled for October 10, 2023.

As Liberia stands at a significant juncture in its democratic journey, the guest speaker emphasized the media’s duty as not just the fourth estate but as a beacon of hope, a custodian of truth, and a champion of accountability. Drawing upon biblical wisdom, she noted the heightened obligation of journalists to be channels of accurate and precise information, especially given Liberia’s current literacy rate, which, according to data cited from Macrotrends.net and USAID, hovers just over 48%.

Representative Ricks strongly advocated for an unwavering commitment to transparency, urging journalists to leverage their curious minds to hold power to account and bring to light any potential irregularities and misconduct that could undermine the electoral process.

‘There is a profound onus on the Liberian media to go beyond merely reporting the news and act as a bridge connecting citizens to their leaders, a watchdog guarding the public interest, and a mirror reflecting the diverse voices and aspirations of our society,’ she stated.

Ricks further encouraged media houses to foster informed debates and dialogue, which she described as the lifeblood of progress in a democracy. She highlighted the media's significant role in presenting a platform for candidates to share their visions, for citizens to express their concerns, and for experts to offer analytical insights, all of which would empower Liberians to make informed decisions when casting their votes.

As Liberia witnesses a media boom with a remarkable surge in media houses, radio stations, and television outlets over the past two decades, the representative cautioned against the rising tide of misinformation exacerbated by social media and internet penetration. While acknowledging the vast reach of digital platforms, she expressed concerns over untrained social media talk show hosts potentially fostering misinformation and biased reporting.

“The proliferation of social media talk show hosts who are untrained in journalism presents an imminent risk to the spread of misinformation and biased reporting. I urge traditional and digital media to collaborate diligently to curb misinformation and foster constructive dialogue,” Ricks asserted.

She did not hold back in pinpointing the risks posed by media houses and radio stations owned by politicians, insinuating a substantial threat to objective journalism.

In her stirring address, Representative Ricks summoned the media to a higher calling of professionalism, ethics, and objectivity, urging them to eschew sensationalism and bias, which she noted could foster division and mistrust. Highlighting the media's crucial role in promoting peace during the election period, she called for conflict-sensitive journalism and a steadfast commitment to avoid propagating hate speech.

As Liberia gears up for what Representative Ricks termed “the most important election of our lifetime,” the message was clear: the media holds the torch in guiding Liberia towards a transparent, peaceful, and democratic election, steering the nation into a future grounded in truth and informed choice.

In her concluding remarks at the ALJA convention, Representative Naquetta Ricks brought to the forefront an instance where social media and the general public worked harmoniously to facilitate the arrest of an American missionary attempting to flee after allegedly trying to kill a Liberian woman. The representative emphasized this event to illustrate the immediate impact social media can have when utilized swiftly and effectively in service of justice.

Drawing attention to the persistent threat against press freedom in Liberia characterized by assaults on journalists and unwarranted equipment seizures, she stressed the urgent need for media houses to prioritize the safety and well-being of their practitioners. She urged the government to not only protect journalists but also to ensure the swift prosecution of those guilty of orchestrating attacks against them.

Ricks candidly addressed a recurrent question concerning independent media in Liberia, acknowledging the challenging environment in which many journalists operate. Many are caught between financial constraints and pressures from sponsors seeking favorable coverage, sometimes at the expense of the truth. “Why not take the money and still report the news? Do you want my life and family to be threatened?” she posed, spotlighting the tough decisions journalists often face.

As the nation inches closer to the critical October 10 elections, Representative Ricks called upon citizens to foster a culture of critical thinking, verifying information, and seeking diverse perspectives. She encouraged people to support the media while holding them accountable to maintain high reporting standards.

“The role of the Liberian media in ensuring transparent and peaceful elections cannot be overstated,” she emphasized, recognizing media not only as observers but as active participants in the democratic process, which plays a pivotal role in nurturing Liberia’s fragile peace as the country prepares for its fourth transfer of power since 2006.

Closing her address with a quote from Thomas Jefferson, “Our liberty depends on the freedom of the press, and that cannot be limited without being lost,” she underscored the intrinsic link between press freedom and democratic liberty.

Ricks ended her speech with a rallying call, encouraging a collective embrace of the power of media to usher Liberia into a brighter and more prosperous future.

“Thank you, and may these elections be a testament to the strength of our democracy and the power of our media to safeguard it,” she said, leaving the attendees with a hopeful vision of Liberia’s democratic journey fortified by a resilient and fearless media landscape.

Representative Naquetta Ricks is the first African immigrant to be elected to the Colorado General Assembly and the first Liberian American to be elected to any state legislature.

When she was only 13, she was forced to flee the civil war in Liberia, and her family settled in Aurora, Colorado.

Representative Ricks received her undergraduate degree in accounting at MSU and her MBA from the University of Colorado Denver.

In the summer of 2023, Rep Ricks was selected to further her leadership education by attending the Harvard Kennedy School's Senior Executives in State & Local Government program.

She then operated a successful small mortgage brokerage business and is the founder and President of the African Chamber of Commerce in Colorado USA.

As a leading Black woman in business and politics, she works tirelessly to improve her community by helping build economic opportunities and by championing the rights of immigrants and refugees.

In her first session in the General Assembly, she led the fight for groundbreaking legislation, including the creation of the Immigration Legal Defense Fund, the Diverse K-12 Educator Workforce Report, the Towing Bill of Rights, and the Behavioral Healthcare Continuum Gap Grant Program.

For her efforts, Representative Ricks has been recognized with many awards, including Habitat for Humanity’s 2021 Legislator of the Year, the 2021 and 2022 Colorado Bankers Association Spurs Award, the 2021 LGBQT Chamber Legislator of the Year, the 2022 Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network Liberty Award, and is a member of Healthier Colorado’s Leadership Circle.

Two Females Elected Vice President, Secretary of ALJA

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:49:39 GMT

(L) to (R): Priscilla Mah-Belloh, Melissa Chea Annan

Two alumni of the Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship, Priscilla Mah-Belloh, and Melissa Chea Annan were elected Vice President and Secretary General of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA).

The two female Media Advocates are also members of an online platform “A New Day Advocacy Community”, that seeks to promote the roles of women in society. The two former journalists were elected last weekend at ALJA’s 12th National Convention yes in Philadelphia.

A former Liberian journalist, Joey Kennedy, who is currently working as an Anti-Money Laundering Surveillance Investigator at the Huntington National Bank, was elected President of ALJA. Mr. Kennedy once served as Director of Communications, at the National Elections Commission in Liberia.

The convention began on Thursday, October 10, and ended on Sunday, October 13, 2024, with a Thanksgiving Service at the Overbrook Assembly of God Church. The convention brought together former Liberia journalists from several states around the United States.

The Convention discussed Key elements to set the association agenda, which informs the association’s input to Liberia’s national discourse on good governance and the rule of law and sets the association’s agenda for the year. The theme of this year’s convention was “Addressing Liberia’s Fragility through War Crimes Accountability and Socio-economic Development.”

The theme of ALJA’s Convention was in furtherance of Liberian President, Joseph Boakai’s decision to establish a War Crimes Court in Liberia, to bring justice, to Liberians who were affected during the Civil War over 21 years ago.

The Speaker of the Liberian Legislature, Cllr Jonathan FonatiKoffa served as Keynote Speaker during the Convention. The Director-General of the Bureau of State Enterprises, Arthur Massaquoi; former Nimba County Superintendent Edith Gongloe Weh and Assistant Foreign Minister Saywar Gbaa, also graced the Convention.

During the Plenary Session, Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailay of the London School of Economics and Political Science, Mrs. Tennen Dalieh Tehoungue of Dublin City University, Mr. George Wisner of the Equilibrium Point Investment Inc. and Mr. Bill Burke of Aljazeera Media Network made presentations.

ALJA Elects New Corps of Officers

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:49:35 GMT

(L) to (R): Melissa Annon, Priscilla Mah-Belloh, Joey Kennedy

The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has elected a new corps of officers to steer the organization's affairs.

Those elected are Joey Kennedy, National President; Priscilla Mah-Belloh, National Vice President and Melissa Annan, National Secretary-General.

The new officials were elected during a by-election conducted at the just-ended 12th National Convention of the Association held in the City of Philadelphia, the United States, from 10-13 October 2024. The new AJA officials were elected for a period of one year to complete the unexpired term of the former President and Vice President, who resigned their positions early this year after being appointed to positions in the Liberian Government.

In his inaugural statement, the President of ALJA, Joey Kennedy, expressed the commitment of the new leadership to instituting innovative and progressive approaches in the utilization of the organization’s 501(c)3 status to propel ALJA from a striving organization to a much more thriving, vibrant and fully funded Liberian diaspora organization that does not only depend on membership dues, convention fees and handouts from goodwill individuals.

Mr. Kennedy stated that the new leadership will work with the utmost efficiency to ensure continuous efficiency within the organization and continue to uphold ALJA’s critical objectives of advocating for good governance, rule of law, democracy, freedom of speech, and the press and providing capacity building for practicing journalists and media institutions in Liberia.

Mr. Kennedy lauded House Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa, who also served as keynote speaker at the convention, for his heroic role in garnering the courage to mobilize members of the House of Representatives to approve a resolution to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court in Liberia.

ALJA, he noted, believes that the establishment of a war and economic crimes court has eluded Liberia for the past 20 years since the end of the brutal civil war simply because of the vehement failures of previous legislators to approve the establishment of such court–adding that the decision by Speaker Koffa and members of the legislature to approve the establishment of the court is a manifestation of the commitment of the Speaker and other members of the legislature to not only hold perpetrators of war and economic crimes in Liberia accountable for their role in the civil war but also to end the culture of impunity and bring closure to families of victims of the brutal civil war in Liberia.

The new ALJA president also lauded Speaker Koffa for conducting an audit of the legislature. Mr. Kennedy was, however, quick to state that While ALJA acknowledges and commends Speaker Koffa for these significant strides and achievements, the organization will not hesitate to criticize and continuously hold his feet to the fire in ensuring that the legislature formulates and approves laws that would improve the lives and livelihoods of the Liberian people as well as bolster the socio-economic development of Liberia.

Meanwhile, ALJA has called on Speaker Koffa to immediately institute a legislative probe that will review the role of the head of the Liberia Revenue Authority (LRA), Mr. Dorbor Jallah, in the controversy surrounding the acquisition of a luxury SUV estimated to cost nearly $100 Thousand United States for use by former Commerce minister Amin Modad, who resigned his position over the controversy.

ALJA believes that if Mr. Jallah and all others involved in the controversy are found liable, they, too, should be asked to resign, be dismissed, and prosecuted in consonance with the laws of Liberia.

ALJA is a conglomeration of Liberian Journalists residing in the Americas. Founded in 1998, the Association is committed to advancing press freedom through media capacity building and the fostering of good governance in Liberia through media advocacy.

ALJA Condemns Executive Interference, Warns Lawmaker Over Press Freedom Threats

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:49:33 GMT

Minneapolis – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has strongly condemned recent developments surrounding the ongoing crisis within Liberia’s House of Representatives, in which the Justice Minister and Attorney-General allegedly skewed the interpretation of the recent Supreme Court ruling in favor of the so-called majority members of the House.

ALJA says the Attorney-General’s actions, carried out under the instruction of the Executive branch, undermine the rule of law and the doctrine of separation of powers enshrined in Liberia’s Constitution.

In a statement signed by its President, Joey Kennedy, ALJA noted that while the Supreme Court’s interpretation of Articles 33 and 49 of the Liberian Constitution refrained from explicitly addressing the legality of actions taken by the anti-Koffa faction within the House of Representatives, the Attorney-General’s skewed interpretation risks exacerbating the already volatile crisis.

At the same time, ALJA expressed deep concern over the Executive Mansion’s decision to withdraw security personnel and other government resources assigned to House Speaker J. Fonati Koffa amid the ongoing crisis. ALJA views the withdrawal of Speaker Koffa’s security detail as blatant intimidation that undermines both the principle of separation of powers and the integrity of Liberia’s governance. Such actions, ALJA stressed, compromise Speaker Koffa’s safety and set a dangerous precedent for using state power to influence legislative processes.

ALJA calls on President Joseph Nyumah Boakai to demonstrate leadership by respecting the fundamental doctrine of separation of powers and refraining from interference in the affairs of the House of Representatives.

Meanwhile, ALJA has condemned threats made by Nimba County Representative Samuel Kogar against journalist Julius Jeh of OK FM. During a live broadcast, Representative Kogar accused Jeh of inciting public discontent over the ongoing leadership crisis and issued veiled threats of potential consequences against the journalist.

ALJA believes such intimidation constitutes a direct attack on press freedom and undermines the media’s critical role as a cornerstone of democracy. The U.S.-based advocacy group insists that journalists must be free to report on critical national issues without fear of retribution or harm.

ALJA reiterates that press freedom is non-negotiable and essential for holding leaders accountable, fostering transparency, and ensuring that the Liberian people remain informed about their government’s actions.

The Association remains steadfast in its commitment to advocating for a free press, good governance, and respect for Liberia’s constitutional order. ALJA will continue to monitor the situation and speak out against actions that threaten Liberia’s democratic progress.

ALJA is a U.S.-based Liberian media advocacy organization committed to promoting press freedom and fostering good governance through media advocacy. Founded in 1998, ALJA supports accountability and integrity in Liberia’s political affairs.

ALJA Steps Up Assistance To The Liberian Media

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 04:49:26 GMT

Computers, Digital Recorders In The Package

Minneapolis, MN, USA - About 20 Media Institutions , including many community radio stations across the Country, will beginning this week receive Laptop Computers and Digital Voice Recorders worth thousands of US dollars from the Association of Liberia Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) .

In a Press Release issued on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, the Association says the donation is part of its media development program which represents the organization’s overarching goal of empowering Liberian Journalists by providing them the logistical support and training necessary to effectively perform their reportorial duties.

The donation, which will take place at the offices of the Center for Media Studies and Peace Building (CEMASP) in Monrovia at 12 noon on Thursday, February 9, 2023, will bring together representatives of the institutions expected to benefit.

“The bulk of the donation will go to community radio stations in different parts of the county to help in their reportorial duties as they prepare for the Presidential and General elections scheduled for October this Year,” says ALJA President Joe Mason.

Mr. Mason has thanked ALJA members and as well as friends and partners of the Association for making the donation possible.

According to the ALJA press release, Media institutions benefiting from the donation include radio stations in Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, Gbarpolu, Sinoe, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Nimba, Grand Kru, Bong and Maryland Counties. Other media institutions in Monrovia including, the Analyst Newspaper, the Independent Probe, the Inquirer Newspaper, Global News Network (GNN), Lux FM radio at the University of Liberia and Prime TV, among others are also expected to benefit.

ALJA’s former Vice President and Chairman of its Media Fund, Pewee Baysah, External Relations Chairman, Charles Crawford and the organization’s Assistant Secretary General, Peter Massaquoi who are all visiting the country, will oversee the donation.

The latest donation by ALJA represents its biggest yet to the Liberian media. Similar donations of Laptop Computers and Digital Voice Recorders were made in 2022 and 2021 respectively to over a dozen media institutions in the country.

ALJA is a conglomeration of current and retired Liberian journalists residing in the Americas. It is a 501c (3) non-profit organization. The Association was founded in 1998 with the objectives of fostering companionship amongst its members and their American counterparts. Additionally, ALJA is committed to advancing press freedom through media capacity building, and the fostering of good governance in Liberia through media advocacy.

Publisher Seakor Commends ALJA’s Donation -Blasts Some Media Development Groups -Says, “ALJA Assistance A radical Departure from Others”

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:53:47 GMT

MONROVIA – Overwhelmed by the show of true support and commitment to the development and welfare of the Liberian media sector through a massive donation of computers (Laptops) and other electronic gadgets to several media institutions in the country by the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA), the Publisher/Managing Editor of The Analyst Newspaper, Mr. Stanley Seakor, has commended the organization for being thoughtful in identifying with the media works of their colleagues back home, describing the donation as a radical departure from the other channels where media development groups in Liberia careless about the opportunities to develop the media despite huge donor funding they received.

The statement of appreciation from publisher Seakor formed part of his acknowledgement of the gesture extended his institution. The Analyst is one of the media institutions that benefited from the kind gesture from ALJA aimed at enhancing the productivity and capacity of media organizations in the country. Publisher Seakor further acknowledged that the assistance could not have come at a more propitious time when the sector is struggling while media development organizations in the country who should be assisting are undermining the very establishment they pretend to support.

“We see this as a welcome development; as it bridges the gap in support for robust media activities in the country. I think it is fair enough to say this support is a radical departure from what has happened in our own setting where some local media development institutions go out there to lobby for media support, return to exploit the situation and to some extent blackmail some of the media entities as being on the payroll of the government and cannot benefit from their programs.

“Even the little support that would get to the media comes with humiliation and downgrading of the media. They come up with some non-result yielding initiatives such spurious undertakings in the name of workshop, training and capacity building for the sole purpose of justifying the rip-off from donors’ funds, thereby using the media to enrich themselves… at the right time we will call names with evidence.

“We are not looking at how little the donation is but the fact is even in the little way within their reach, ALJA has come forth with this support just like in the past and we are optimistic that bigger things will definitely be on the way and the Liberian media sector will surely get there”, Seakor said.

He urged his colleagues to make judicious use of what was presented and strive to be professional in their line of duty. The Liberian media practitioner and executive as well called for exploring new areas of synergy between ALJA and the Liberian media fraternity with the view of enriching the profession thereby increasing its quota to national development.

The commendation from Publisher Seakor came on the heels of the donation made from ALJA at a brief but eventful ceremony held at the office of the Center for Media and Peace Studies yesterday, Thursday, February 9, 2023 when 20 media institutions from both the print and electronic media received laptops and other electronic gadgets.

The Executive Director for CEMPS, Malcolm Joseph who coordinated the distribution of the items from ALJA said he was happy to see the fulfillment of the project and hoped the donation will be a continuous one. Mr. Joseph also called on the local media family to appreciate ALJA and encourage the existence of cooperation between the media and ALJA.

Speaking thereafter, Charles Crawford, the External Relations Chairman said the donation represents ALJA’s own way of identifying with its roots given the fact that members of the organization have had relationships with the media community at home and have been endeavoring to maintain the relationship active.

He said the donation was ALJA’s own way of contributing to the capacity building process of the media as they strive to provide unmatched services to the Liberian people in this critical time.

The occasion was also used to present checks to two students at the Department of Communications and Media Studies at the University of Liberia who are beneficiaries of a scholarship scheme named in honor of a fallen colleague, Joseph Teh, who died some time ago in Boston, the United States of America.

The two junior students, Chuckey Ramadel Thomas and Miss Deddeh Sammy, thanked ALJA for the offer and promised to reciprocate the gesture by being studious and ambitious towards becoming media practitioners upon graduation.

Responding on behalf of the media institutions, Mr. Cholo Brooks, publisher of Global News Network (GNN) media outlet thanked ALJA for the donation, describing the presentation as a step forward in boosting the morale and engagements of media practitioners. Mr. Books promised that the materials donated will be properly utilized.

Several media institutions that benefited from the donation included radio stations in Bomi, Grand Cape Mount, Gbarpolu, Sinoe, Grand Bassa, Rivercess, Nimba, Grand Kru, Bong and Maryland Counties. Other media institutions in Monrovia including, The Analyst Newspaper, the Independent Probe, the Inquirer Newspaper, Global News Network (GNN), Lux FM radio at the University of Liberia and Prime TV, among others, also benefited from the ALJA gesture.

ALJA To Host Its 12th National Convention in Philadelphia, United States

Thu, 17 Apr 2025 02:34:24 GMT

Minneapolis, MN – The 12th National Convention of the Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) is scheduled to take place from 10-13 October 2024 in the City of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania under the Theme, “Addressing Liberian’s Fragility Through War Crimes Accountability and Socio-Economic Development.”

The convention is an annual event held by ALJA and will bring together several international Journalists of Liberian origin, ALJA members based in the US as well as journalists from Liberia. Also expected to attend are officials of the Liberian government, politicians, civil society actors and friends of the Liberian media. At this year’s convention, the Association’s progress, challenges and future will be deliberated.

ALJA maintains that war crimes accountability will contribute to lasting peace and stability and create an environment that is conducive for the social and economic development of Liberia. As evidenced by this year’s convention theme, the conferees will focus on promoting social justice and equality, fostering inclusive development, reducing corruption and ensuring the efficient and effective use of public resources. A resolution on these critical issues will be crafted and issued at the close of the convention.

According to a press release signed by the Officer-In-Charge of ALJA , Joey Kennedy, an important element of this year’s convention is the provision of an opportunity by the United States Government for ALJA members and invited journalists from Liberia to tour both the United States White House and the Capitol in Washington DC on Friday, October 11, 2024.

The release says, on Saturday, October 12, 2024, several prominent Liberian intellectuals and academics will present papers at the plenary session of the convention as follows:

Mrs. Tennen Dalieh Tehoungue, PhD candidate , Universal Jurisdiction (International Criminal Law) Transitional Justice and Peace Building, Dublin City University, Dublin, Ireland. Topic: Accountability, Rule of Law and Socio-economic Development in Liberia.
Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailay, Assistant Professor of International Social and Public Policy , The London School of Economics, London, England, the UK. Topic: Empowering Liberian women: Addressing Gender Specific Impacts of War Crimes and Building the Path to Socio-economic Resilience.
Mr. Bill Burke, Deputy Program Editor-AlJazeera English , Aljazeera Media Network, Doha, Qatar. Topic: The Role of the Media In Advancing Accountability, The Rule of Law and Socio-economic Development in Liberia.
Mr. George Wisner II, Chief Executive Officer , Equilibrium Point Investment Inc & Adjunct Lecturer/Faculty, African Methodist Episcopal University (AMEU), Monrovia, Liberia. Topic: Addressing Unemployment, Inequality and Access to Wealth as Keys to Achieving Socio- economic Development in Liberia

During the plenary session, a By-Election will be held to fill vacancies created by the resignation of the National President and Vice President of the Association as well as for the position of Secretary-General. Three candidates certified by the Elections Commission will be elected on white ballots during the convention to complete the one-year unexpired term of the former ALJA officials. Individuals certified by the organization’s elections commission to contest the vacant positions are:

Mr. Joey Kennedy……………….........…….National President
Madam Priscilla Mah-Belloh…………National Vice President; and
Mrs. Melissa Anna…………….........……..National Secretary- General

Cllr. Jonathan Fonati Koffa, Speaker of the Liberian House of Representatives, will deliver the keynote address at the benefit banquet which climaxes the 2024 National Convention. The banquet is intended to mobilize financial support for ALJA’s Media Fund is used to provide logistical and technical support to the Liberian media, an essential pillar of the nation’s democracy.

ALJA Commends Liberian Gov’t On MCC Compact Grant Qualification

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 04:50:47 GMT

Minneapolis, USA, December 26, 2024 – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has congratulated the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, on Liberia’s qualification for a Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact Grant which positions the country to receive up to $500 million in development funding from the United States Government.

ALJA acknowledges that the MCC Grant, which could have transformative impacts on the country’s future, marks a significant turning point in the nation’s governance and reform journey. Achieving this milestone required Liberia to meet stringent benchmarks across several sectors, including the rule of law, fiscal management, trade policy, and anti-corruption efforts. These reforms reflect the government’s commitment to fostering good governance, promoting transparency, and creating the foundation for sustainable development.

In a press release, ALJA says the MCC Compact Grant represents a unique opportunity for Liberia to address critical development challenges. If finalized, the grant is expected to focus on key sectors such as infrastructure development, energy access, and economic diversification. These areas are essential for enhancing the country’s global competitiveness, creating jobs, and reducing poverty. ALJA views this achievement not only as a reflection of the government’s determination but also as an opportunity for the Liberian people to experience tangible improvements in their daily lives and livelihoods.

ALJA further states that President Boakai’s leadership, encapsulated in the Arrest Agenda for Inclusive Development, has been pivotal in meeting the MCC Scorecard’s rigorous standards. The ARREST Agenda emphasizes inclusive governance, national unity, and systematic reform, ensuring that all Liberians benefit from development initiatives. This focus on inclusivity, combined with targeted efforts to improve governance, has played a crucial role in rebuilding international trust and attracting vital development support. ALJA commends the administration for its resilience and dedication to achieving these benchmarks despite the challenges posed by systemic issues and external pressures.

While this achievement is worthy of celebration, ALJA underscores the importance of sustained efforts to ensure that Liberia maximizes the benefits of the MCC Compact Grant. Specifically, ALJA urges the Government of Liberia to Deepen Anti-Corruption Measures by ensuring that resources from the grant are transparently allocated and managed, with robust oversight mechanisms in place as well as Strengthen Institutional Frameworks by building the capacity of public institutions to effectively implement and monitor MCC-funded projects.

The Liberian Diaspora based advocacy organizations also wants government to engage civil society and citizens to promote broad-based participation in planning and executing development initiatives and ensuring that all Liberians feel the impact of these investments while at the same time maintaining progress on MCC Indicators by focusing on long-term reforms to ensure continued eligibility for MCC funding in the future.

At the same time, ALJA calls on Liberians at home and abroad to unite in support of this achievement and work collectively toward consolidating the gains made. “Diaspora Liberians, in particular, have a vital role to play in advocating for sustained reforms, investing in local initiatives, and holding leaders accountable,” a release signed by ALJA President Joey Kennedy concluded.

As a media advocacy organization, ALJA remains steadfast in its mission to promote good governance, press freedom, and the rule of law in Liberia. ALJA says it will continue to support development efforts in Liberia and hold stakeholders accountable for ensuring that the MCC Compact Grant translates into real, transformative progress for all Liberians.

ALJA Commends Government on MCC Compact Grant Qualification

Thu, 03 Apr 2025 05:20:09 GMT

December 27, 2024

Minneapolis – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has congratulated the Government of Liberia, under the leadership of President Joseph Boakai, on Liberia’s qualification for a Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) Compact Grant which positions the country to receive up to $500 million in development funding from the United States Government

In a release, ALJA says the MCC Compact Grant represents a unique opportunity for Liberia to address critical development challenges. If finalized, the grant is expected to focus on key sectors such as infrastructure development, energy access, and economic diversification. These areas are essential for enhancing the country’s global competitiveness, creating jobs, and reducing poverty. ALJA views this achievement not only as a reflection of the government’s determination but also as an opportunity for the Liberian people to experience tangible improvements in their daily lives and livelihoods.

ALJA Expresses Concerns About Bribery Allegations Up Capitol Hill

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 16:00:00 GMT

(Minneapolis, 21 October 2024) – The Association of Liberian Journalists in the Americas (ALJA) has expressed concerns regarding allegations of bribes paid to members of Liberia’s House of Representatives in exchange for votes to remove Speaker Jonathan Fonati Koffa.

ALJA acknowledges the right of lawmakers to pursue the removal of Speaker Koffa, but stresses that such actions must be rooted in transparency, not corruption. ALJA believes bribery erodes trust in Liberia’s democratic institutions and harm the public interest.

In a release, the organization also expressed concerns about accusations of financial mismanagement, conflicts of interest, and poor leadership raised against Speaker Koffa by lawmakers seeking his removal. Additionally, ALJA notes Speaker Koffa’spush for transparency in the budget process, including his call for legislative reforms and audits, which could have motivated opposition against him.

ALJA calls for an impartial investigation into both the bribery allegations and the financial mismanagement claims. It stresses the importance of restoring public confidence in Liberia’s governance through a transparent and fair process.