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VOL. 16. NO. 71

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2014

PRICE: LD 40

INSIDE THIS EDITION

A Vision of National Reunification: President Sirleafs call for Citizenship Rights to Natural Born Diaspora Liberians
See Pg. 4

EDITORIAL

Dual Citizenship Debate Heats Up Again

As Some Senators Play Throw the Rock and Hide Your Hand; Some Diaspora Liberians Advise Caution, While Others Want It Passed Urgently

www.liberianobserver.com

Victorious Bassa: The Day Politics Died in Grand Bassa County

See Pg. 4

COMMENTARY

Pres. Sirleaf Freezes LTA Account

LOCAL NEWS
Mano River Union Nations to Benefit from AfDB
See Pg. 3

Market Women in the Spotlight 3

See Pg. 5

W & FAMIY

nfluential members of the Liberian Senate are making a strong push for Liberias recognition of dual citizenship with other countries. This would allow hundreds of thousands of diaspora Liberians holding foreign citizenship to

Flashback: Some members of the Liberian Community who met with VP Boakai in Syndey, Australia

By Keith Morris

maintain all of the rights and privileges of the land of their birth and/or parentage. The dual citizenship debate resurfaced on January 27, when President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf delivered her State of the Nation Address to the House of Representatives and the Senate. A great human capital resource for the development of

this country lies in the Liberian Diaspora, the President told lawmakers. We trust that as you move forward during this session, and in your deliberations, you will give adequate consideration to the recognition of citizens rights for those persons born as Liberians, and those born
Contd on pg. 10

LTA Chairperson Weeks is probably praying against the Presidents decision

Ellen Hails Liberian Businessman

See Pg. 9

BUSINESS

SPORTS
President Sirleaf Cannot Ignore Lone Star
See Pg. 11

he Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, has nominated a Chief of Staff and Deputy Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of Liberia.

President Sirleaf Nominates New Army Chief of Staff, Deputy

By William Q. Harmon
resident Ellen Johnson Sirleaf has frozen the accounts of the Liberia Tele-

communications Authority, (LTA) headed by Angelique Weeks. The Liberian leader also

Contd on pg. 6c

Send and receive money

According to an Executive Mansion release, those nominated to the Liberian Senate are: Col. Daniel Dee Ziankhan as Chief of Staff, and Col. Eric Dennis as Deputy Chief of Staff. The newly nominated Chief

across Africa
Fast Convenient Reliable

The future is pan-African

Contd on pg. 6c

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Tuesday, January 28, 2014 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, February 04, 2014 Wednesday, February 5, 2014

World News

Nigerias Top Photographer Dies

One of Africas most prominent photographers, JD Okhai Ojeikere, has died in Lagos, Nigeria, aged 83. His family announced that he had passed away on Sunday afternoon, after a brief illness. He was best known for his series of about 1,000 black and white photos of African hairstyles. Last year a selection of them was shown at the Venice Biennale. They were also exhibited at Documenta in 2007, and in many galleries and museums. Ojeikere grew up in a village in south-western Nigeria and started taking pictures with a Brownie D camera when he was 20 years old. The state has never really cared about the arts here and, although we have many people who are very rich, we also lack good private institutions for the promotions of the arts, JD Okhai Ojeikere said. In 1954 he began working as a darkroom assistant in the photographic department of Ibadans Ministry of Information. Five years later, shortly after Nigeria gained independence, he became a photographer for the Western Nigerian Broadcasting Services, and in 1963 he moved to Lagos. We had so many dreams at the time. We thought a country so rich in natural resources could really go ahead on its own. But our dreams were shattered by tribalism, he told the BBCs Manuel Toledo in 2010. Then came the military dictatorships, one after another, for so many years. It makes me sad to think that things have not changed much. You see the same elites holding on to power and getting richer and richer, he said. The state has never really cared about the arts here and, although we have many people who are very rich, we also lack good private institutions for the promotions of the arts, he lamented. He began working on his Hairstyle series in the late 1960s after he joined the Nigerian Arts Council and began documenting the countrys culture. At the same time, he was taking hundreds of pictures - many still unpublished - of some of the now iconic buildings of Lagos as they were being built, including the National Theatre. But he did not forget his village life and in his private album of architectural photos he kept some of ant hills. For me, theyre the first skyscrapers, he joked.

(BBC) - The globe is facing a tidal wave of cancer, and restrictions on alcohol and sugar need to be considered, say World Health Organization scientists. It predicts the number of cancer cases will reach 24 million a year by 2035, but half could be prevented. The WHO said there was now a real need to focus on cancer prevention by tackling smoking, obesity and drinking. The World Cancer Research Fund said there was an alarming level of naivety about diets role in cancer. Fourteen million people a year are diagnosed with cancer, but that is predicted to increase to 19 million by 2025, 22 million by 2030 and 24 million by 2035. The developing world will bear the brunt of the extra cases. Chris Wild, the director of the WHOs International Agency for Research on Cancer, told the BBC: The global cancer burden is increasing and quite markedly, due predominately to the ageing of the populations and population growth. If we look at the cost of treatment of cancers, it is spiralling out of control, even for the high-income countries. Prevention is absolutely critical and its been somewhat neglected. For most countries, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. However, cervical cancer dominates in

Cancer Tidal Wave On The Rise, Warns WHO

Page 10d 2 Page

Foreign Briefs
(BBC) - Eleven students have been expelled from a school in southern California for allegedly hacking teachers computers and changing their grades. It is believed that keyloggers were installed on computers which helped pupils to gain remote access. The school at the centre of the hacking scandal is Corona Del Mar High School, in Newport Beach.

US

Large numbers of people do not know there is a lot they can do to reduce their exposure to risk
large parts of Africa. Dr Chris Wild, WHO: Were not going to be able to address this problem by simply improving treatment The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause. It is thought wider use of the HPV and other vaccines could prevent hundreds of thousands of cancers. One of the reports editors, Dr Bernard Stewart from the University of New South Wales in Australia, said prevention had a crucial role in combating the tidal wave of cancer which we see coming across the world. Dr Stewart said human behaviour was behind many cancers such as the sunbathe until youre cooked evenly on both sides approach in his native Australia. He said it was not the role of the International Agency for Research on Cancer to dictate what should be done. But he added: In relation to alcohol, for example, were all aware of the acute effects, whether its car accidents or assaults, but theres a burden of disease thats not talked about because its simply not recognised, specifically involving cancer. The extent to which we modify the availability of alcohol, the labelling of alcohol, the promotion of alcohol and the price of alcohol - those things should be on the agenda. He said there was a similar argument to be had with sugar fuelling obesity, which in turn affected cancer risk. Meanwhile, a survey of 2,046 people in the UK by the World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) suggested 49% do not know that diet increases the risk of developing cancer. A third of people said cancer was mainly due to family history, but the charity said no more than 10% of cancers were down to inherited genes. Amanda McLean, general manager for the WCRF, said: Its very alarming to see that such a large number of people

(BBC) - A French court has begun hearing the landmark trial of a former Rwandan intelligence chief charged with complicity in the 1994 genocide. Pascal Simbikangwa, who is paraplegic, was arrested in 2008 when he was living under an alias on Frances Indian Ocean island of Mayotte. He denies all of the charges. France has been accused of being too slow to prosecute those allegedly linked to killing hundreds of thousands of Rwandans over 100 days in 1994. After the genocide, many Rwandans fled to France as they share a common language and used to enjoy close diplomatic relations. Mr Simbikangwa, 54, stands accused of helping to arm ethnic Hutu militia who manned roadblocks in the capital, and instructing them about their part in the slaughter. He has acknowledged being close to the government of President Juvenal Habyarimana, a Hutu whose assassination in 1994 led to the outbreak of violence that killed some

Rwanda Ex-Spy Chief Tried in Paris on Genocide Charges

litia on how they should carry out the slaughter. He denies all the charges. He lost his legs in a car accident in 1986 and has used a wheelchair ever since. As he could no longer fight in the army, he joined the secret service. He is accused of personally torturing people from his wheelchair. Rwandas government has long accused France of having supported the genocidal regime. Paris denies this but the two countries have fallen out. This trial has been well received in Kigali and may lead to a diplomatic rapprochement. Many of the victims families have been eagerly awaiting the trial. Dafroza Gauthier, who lost more than 80 members of her family in the genocide, has been working for the past 12 years with her husband, Alain, to build the case against Pascal Simbikangwa. She told reporters the trial was an important moment for the victims who have been waiting for this trial for 20 years - for them, for their

dont know that theres a lot they can do to significantly reduce their risk of getting cancer. In the UK, about a third of the most common cancers could be prevented through being a healthy weight, eating a healthy diet and being regularly physically active. These results show that many people still seem to mistakenly accept their chances of getting cancer as a throw of the dice, but by making lifestyle changes today, we can help prevent cancer tomorrow. It advises a diet packed with vegetables, fruit, and wholegrains; cutting down on alcohol and red meat; and junking processed meat completely. Dr Jean King, Cancer Research UKs director of tobacco control, said: The most shocking thing about this reports prediction that 14 million cancer cases a year will rise to 22 million globally in the next 20 years is that up to half of all cases could be prevented. People can cut their risk of cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices, but its important to remember that the government and society are also responsible for creating an environment that supports healthy lifestyles. Its clear that if we dont act now to curb the number of people getting cancer, we will be at the heart of a global crisis in cancer care within the next two decades.

(BBC) - Thailand has announced that a contract to sell more than a million tonnes of rice to China has been cancelled. The Ministry of Commerce said the Chinese government pulled out of the deal to buy 1.2 million tonnes of rice because of an ongoing probe. Thailands Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating PM Yingluck Shinawatra over a rice purchase policy. The policy has been a factor in the anti-government protests that have sparked Thailands political crisis.

China

(BBC) - The president of the UAE is in a stable and reassuring condition after surgery following a stroke late last month, his half-brother has said. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan had passed through a difficult crisis but overcome it, the official news agency quoted Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as saying. The state did not want to hide news about the presidents health, he added.

UAE

Pascal Simbikangwa lost his legs in a car accident in 1986

800,000 ethnic Tutsis and moderate Hutus in Rwanda. More than 50 journalists, historians, farmers, security guards, and former intelligence officials are expected to be called as witnesses in the trial. Although Pascal Simbikangwa only had the rank of captain, as head of the countrys secret service he is accused of being one of the most significant people in organising the genocide. He is accused of drawing up lists of high-profile Tutsis and Hutus opposed to the government to be killed in the capital, Kigali. He then allegedly instructed the soldiers and mi-

families, but also for French people who were certainly misinformed at the time of the events during the genocide. Rwandan Justice Minister Johnston Busingye said the start of the trial was a good sign. A lawyer working with the prosecution, Clemence Bectarte, told the BBC many of the suspects of the Rwandan genocide have lived in total impunity after seeking refuge in France in the late 1990s. Of course it is late, but its never too late, she said. The trial is expected to last seven weeks. France has been accused of not doing enough to stop the genocide in Rwanda, and of delaying the extradition of genocide suspects. It denies the accusations but Rwanda severed relations with France in 2006, although ties were restored three years later. Correspondents say the delay in bringing suspected genocide perpetrators to trial raises questions about Frances postcolonial role in Africa.

(BBC) - Officials in Bolivia say the number of people who have died due to torrential rain since the beginning of the year has risen to 29. More than 35,000 families have been affected by the rains and the flooding, the ministry of defence said. The worst affected province is Beni, in north-eastern Bolivia, where 10 people have died, followed by La Paz in the north-west and central Cochabamba.

Bolivia

(BBC) - The Russian government says Syria should complete the shipment of its chemical weapons out of the country by 1 March, weeks behind schedule. Deputy Foreign Minister Gennady Gatilov told the RIA Novosti news agency that the authorities in Damascus were planning a large shipment this month. Last week, the US said Syria had given up only a fraction of its stockpile.

Syria

Mano River Union Nations to Benefit from AfDB Says President Sirleaf

DAILY OBSERVER Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page 3

By Gloria T.Tamba

he African Development Bank (AfDB) has selected the four Mano River Union countries, including Liberia, to benefit from its new initiative regional integration. The countries of the MRU hope to get interconnectivity, infrastructure, power, transportation and telecommunications systems development, said President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, when she touched down at Roberts International Airport (RIA) in Margibi County, Monday, February 4. President Sirleaf made the disclosure upon her return from

US Govt Donates US$2.2M Equipment, Facilities to Coast Guard

Malawi following a three-day 22nd Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where several important issues, including a report of activities of the AU peace and security council and the state of peace and security in Africa, were discussed. According to President Sirleaf, The African Development Bank (AfDB) will put emphasis on regional integration operation. This means Liberia, Sierra Leone, Guinea and Cote dIvoire as MRU Countries would benefit particularly from improved interconnectivity, infrastructure development, power systems, transport systems and telecommunications. She further stated that Liberia

President Banda (left) hosts President Sirleaf (right) at a State Banquet at Kamuzu Palace, Lilongwe, Saturday, February 1
continues to provide leadership among her African counterparts. After the two-day summit in Addis, the Liberian leader made a stopover in Malawi, where the other female President on the continent is Madam Joyce Banda. While in Malawi we were able to hold a bilateral meeting on the United Nations Mission in Liberias (UNMIL) draw down and the work of the Unit-

ed Nations in Liberia. President Sirleaf said the report was praised by her colleagues and they appreciated the work. They praised the report and we are working on the African Common position to make sure that Africas priorities are clearly reflected and taken into account in the post2015 agenda. President Sirleaf chaired her first APRM meeting with her colleagues discussing governance in the Liberia. Commenting on the visit to Malawi with the President, Liberian Foreign Affairs Minister, Augustine Ngafuan said

LOIC Cries for Support

as part of their visit to Malawi the Liberian government had negotiated and signed an Economic Cooperation Agreement that brings the two countries together bilaterally on health, agriculture, education, tourism, financial and monitoring interaction and other issues. We agreed to set up a joint commission and will be meeting every two years. Under the committee there would be attention given to various sectors, I made some contacts that would allow us to link up with their counterparts from Ministry to Ministry, the Foreign Minister concluded.

he U.S. Government has donated US$2.2 million in equipment and facilities, including two pursuit boats, to the Liberian Coast Guard to enable it to better patrol and protect Liberian coastal waters. The boats are 33-foot Special Purpose Craft-Law Enforcement (SPC-LE) pursuit boats. The other equipment includes two Ford F-350 trucks, two Polaris 800 4x4 utility vehicles and two containers of additional equipment and spare parts to the Liberian Coast Guard, worth US$1.1 million. U.S. Ambassador Deborah Malac said the U.S. Government also provided an addition-

Members of the Liberian Coast Guard pose with one of the two pursuit boats donated by the U.S. Government to enhance Liberias capabilities of protecting and patrolling the countrys coastal waters
al US$1 million to construct a new four-bay boathouse, small office building and to provide electricity and water for the buildings. U.S. Coast Guard Com-

mander Patrick Clark said the new boats provide the Liberian Coast Guard with an enhanced capability to better patrol the waters off Liberias coast, more rapidly respond to search and rescue cases, and protect maritime critical infrastructure, such as offshore oil and gas operations. The new equipment was transferred from the U.S. flagged merchant vessel, OCEAN CRESCENT, to LCG Station Freeport in January. Training with the new pursuit boats started on January 20 and, as announced by the Armed Forces of Liberia, the boats will be commissioned this month as part of the Armed Forces Day celebrations.

(L-R) Mr. Solomon D. King, Sr., Joseph K. Duwor and River Gee Supt., Daniel Johnson

By Keith Morris

By Judoemue M. Kollie, from Barclayville, Grand Kru County

GOL Recognizes 3 Schools for Garden Program Implementation

cal authorities of the county as well as parents and students. Speaking during the ceremony, the program officer for Agriculture and Environmental Education at the MoE, Adolphus H. Collins said the Liberian government attached great importance to school gardening for the intellectual development of Liberian students. The national school garden program is the heart beat of our dynamic President Madam Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Therefore, she has mandated the Ministry (MoE) to ensure that school gardening activities are carried out in all public schools across the country. This is why we are working along with 4H-Liberia to promote the implementation of the program in the various counties, he told the audience. He said that the importance of school gardening cannot be overemphasized as it not only benefits the students and their schools but the country at large. This program creates an opportunity to train future farmers for the country. Whenever children acquire skills in agriculture our countrys food security can be sustained, he said. Mr. Collins mentioned that it was important for parents to encourage their children to take the program seriously. The parents and teachers participation are integral to the success of the program. Therefore I want to urge parents to consider themselves as an engine that drives the transformation, he stated. Giving an overview of the program, the executive director of 4H-Liberia, Umaru Sheriff disclosed that the school garden program is meant to be carried out in 150 schools in 10 of the fifteen counties of Liberia. He said logistics and inadequate staff are the major challenges facing the program and that those problems need to be addressed by government and partners. If we are to meet the desired objective of this program, there is a need to provide more support to reach all of the schools in the country, he recommended. He noted that the 3 schools recognized by government in Grand Kru County for 20132014 met all of the requirements needed for selection. Mr. Sheriff added that they were able to train about 750

he government of Liberia, through the Ministry of Education (MoE), has recognized three schools in Grand Kru County for the successful implementation of an eightmonth garden program. The program is aimed at imparting pupils with agricultural skills to become productive citizens. It is being implemented by a youth organization 4 HLiberia with support from the World Food Program (WFP). The schools given recognition include, George Toe Washington Elementary School, A. A. Hoff Elementary School and J. Blamo Toe Elementary School. These schools were awarded certificates on Friday, January 31, during a program held in Barclayville, Grand Kru County. The program was attended by officials of the (MoE), Ministry of Agriculture (MoA), World Food Program (WFP), Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MoHSW), 4H-Liberia and lo-

members of the PTA to take up leadership responsibilities in the promotion of the program. For his part, the senior program assistant for WFP, Johnson Kolubah said implementation of the school gardening program is a key component of Liberias school feeding program. He noted that community participation is crucial in carrying out the program. Meanwhile, in his keynote address, the district agriculture officer/MoA of Jrao and Buah districts in Grand Kru County, J. Cisco Wesseh, called for more attention to be given to the program in his county. He said that there is a need for the program to be extended to other areas of Grand Kru. According to him, the MoA sub-office in the county would give technical assistance to all schools where school gardening is being carried out. Mr. S. Blohkwon Toe, principal of the George Toe Washington Elementary School in Barclayville, explained during the program that his school was the first to succeed in implementing the garden program due to the cooperation of the schools

iberia Opportunities and Industrialization Center, (LOIC) a government own entity responsible to provide technical and vocational education to underprivileged Liberian youth has appealed to the Legislature and the Executive Branch in connection with empowerment. Speaking at the 19th Graduation of the program in Monrovia, the chairman of the LOIC Board of Directors, Mr. Joseph K. Duwor, stressed the need for adequate and continued financial support in an effort to train vulnerable Liberian youth for the job market. He noted that prioritizing LOIC to meet challenges facing young people would serve as a relief to the Government in the areas of youth empowerment and poverty reduction. Most of the materials being used here are all fading-away and there is a need to replace them. LOIC received the bulk of the burden of the 25,000 students that sat and failed the University of Liberia entrance last year. Most of those students turned to LOIC in search of vocational education. LOIC has the highest number vocational students across the country, and as such, the necessary budgetary support must be provided to the inPTA and technical support given from the MoA sub-office in the county. He said proceeds from the garden were used to compensate support staff and settle other expenses for the school. At the same time, the head of the 4H club in George K. Wash-

stitution, Mr. Duwor asserted. The 19th Cycle graduated over 200 students in various disciplines, including Auto Mechanics, Carpentry, Masonry, Pluming, Electricity, and Computer Science among others. National Oil Company of Liberia (NOCAL) sponsored a majority of the students, under a scheme to get young people off the streets and train their hands and minds to take their destiny in their own hands. Also speaking at the ceremony, NOCAL Chief Executive Officer Randolph McClain welcomed efforts by the graduates to participate in the program. Dr. McClain pledged his entitys continued support in funding the program at all levels, while encouraging less fortunate youths to take advantage of the opportunity provided by NOCAL. He described vocational learning as a major tool in the uplifting of the Liberian economy. Meanwhile, the ceremony was used to pen a Memorandum of Understand (MOU) between LOIC and the local government of River Gee County. The intent of the agreement is to open a branch of LOIC in River Gee County, in order to serve the Southeastern region where vocational educational is in serious demand. ington School, Saybeh Toe, age 13, thanked the government and partners for recognizing his institution. He expressed the schools commitment to staging the garden project every year to promote the supply of fresh vegetables to their communities.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, February 04, 2014 Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page Page10d 4

Published by Liberian Observer Corporation P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia

Liberias First Independent Daily 0886812888, 0886472772 www.liberianobserver.com

It is difficult to build a nation single handedly. We need each other.

A Vision of National Reunification: President Sirleafs call for Citizenship Rights to Natural Born Diaspora Liberians
In her 9th Annual Message, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf reflected upon the many accomplishments of her administration as she laid out her vision for the next twelve months, and beyond. One poignant aspect of her vision which must be put into perspective was contained in her call to the National Legislature to render adequate consideration to the recognition of citizens rights for those persons born as Liberians, and those born of Liberian parentage who wish to contribute fully to the development of this country as citizens. In this call, the President went further to drive home the strategic logic of socio-economic gain in the form of valued human resource which many nations in the developed world have wisely tapped. She noted, The grant of Liberian citizenship would enable us to draw on the wealth of financial, technical and other resources available to that category of persons that could be deployed nationally. Her call was made in full recognition of billions of U.S. dollars transferred in remittances to Liberia by Diaspora Liberians, and the vast talent pool and transferable assets gained by this sector of Liberian society abroad. The Presidents proposition reveals the essence of reconnecting a missing link not yet brought to bear in the quest for national reconstruction so desired by millions of Liberians at home and abroad. It triggers a sober reflection upon the tremendous loss of essential resources by Liberia during the war years. The mass exodus of an estimated 1.5 million Liberians in a dark chapter of human and infrastructural destruction gave way to massive brain drain and accumulated economic disadvantages. These losses account for the missing links, and stubborn hindrances to accelerated reconstruction. Accordingly, the Presidents call to action must be pursued with great vigor as a strategic initiative to attract, regain, and maintain the maximum resources of all Liberian nationals at home and abroad, to achieve the goals of reconstruction. The task of consolidated nation-building cannot be achieved if we fail to pursue all available resources within our reach. It has been observed that the primary obstacle to the achievement of this initiative is not within any Constitutional provision, but rather within a 1972 Liberian Statute which has been deemed incompatible to the Liberian Constitution by major legal scholars, including the acclaimed American Bar Association (ABA). Therefore an Act by the Legislature to repeal of this obstructive Statute would achieve the goals of national reunification as envisioned by the President and the host of Liberian nationals abroad. However, she cannot ably proceed on this crucial matter without grappling with the reality of a divided nation. A crippling challenge to this pursuit of national reunification lies in the growing cynicism on the part of local Liberians towards the intentions and perceived domination by their fellow citizens from the Diaspora. It is also a sad commentary that a nation reeling from the aftermath of war would suffer such an unnecessary schism triggering political hesitation within the corridors of the Legislature, as key supporters in the Senate gear up for re-election this November. While we commend the President for this visionary and courageous reflection, we note that this call to the Legislature on behalf of Diaspora Liberians is not the first. It has been repeatedly made in previous Annual Messages. Consequently, further action beyond oratory is now required on the Presidents part, considering the essence of this issue, so long delayed, as it relates to national reunification, human development and reconstruction. A word of advice to the President on this issue, especially in a polarized year of legislative elections, is to consider the use of her constitutional options related to Executive action in the best interest of the nation. The Liberian leader can follow the example of President Barack Obama who took the bold step to use the pen of Executive order to secure opportunities for millions of children born to undocumented immigrants in the United States, even as he battled fierce opposition to his call for immigration reform. In so doing, Liberia, as many developed nations have done, will expand access to unlimited economic, political, and social advantages which lie in the potential of her own nationals. The changing trends and demands of a global community make it increasingly logical to reach out in an earnest effort to tap the vast human and material resource potential of all Liberian nationals scattered abroad. Hence, the path to this objective lies both in a conscientious effort by the President, and the courage of the Liberian Legislature to revisit the Laws of Liberia to guarantee full citizenship rights to natural born Liberians and their children, who circumstantially acquired citizenship in other countries as means of survival during a time of war. JOHN LLOYD, todays Guest Editorialist, is former Commissioner, Office of African Affairs of the District Government of Washington, DC. He is a former leader of the Liberian Community Association in Washington DC and the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA). He served as member of the editorial staff of the Daily Observer prior to the civil war.

OBSERVER CARTOON WITH A. Leslie Lumeh E-mail: leslie@leslielumeh.com www.leslielumeh.com

Victorious Bassa: The Day Politics Died in Grand Bassa County

By A. Nat Bayjay, nbayjay2010@ gmail.com
Not even the absences of Cllr. Charles Walker Brumskine and Senate Pro Tempore Gbenzohngar Milton Findley could dampen the victorious celebrations of the Bassonians. Over the weekend, the port city of Buchanan came alive as thousands of Bassonians and hundreds of other Liberians stormed the city to officially celebrate the countys end of almost 24 years of trophy drought as far as the annual National County Meet is concerned. Yes, jubilant moods they were indeed in what was like a trinity-of-celebrations in the port city that began Friday night (January 31, 2014) with the arrival of guests and continued on Saturday, February 1, 2014 with the grand possession through the principle streets unto the under-renovation Doris Williams Stadium and ended on Sunday, February 2, 2014 with the one-one draw football match between the champions and Senior Professionals. Of course, social outings climaxed the celebrations on the citys nice and beautiful beaches. In a nutshell, the Bassa celebrations are real indications that politics can cease and probably die for a while despite the diverse political differences the people of Bassa share. With Grand Bassa Countys victory coming at a time when the county, like the other 14 counties, prepares for a crucial senatorial race, the kicking-aside of politics began right at the Samuel Kanyon Doe (SKD) Sports Stadium on January 19, 2014 when the county repeated its historic win over Nimba during a match that pulled the largest crowd ever in National County Meet history (whether pre or post war days). And at the very end of that match, Bassa politicians (lawmakers and aspiring ones and others) went beyond their respective political boundaries and hugged one another before they could probably even realize it. At least, because of Grand Bassas victory, an independent Findley could afford to hug his Liberty Party rivals while others jumped onto the shoulders of those sharing similar but opposing political ambitions. When the Bassa people decided to adequately celebrate their victory two weeks later in their capital city, the political tensions in the county died as if God Almighty had visited the place and everyone needed to show that all was well. Its no doubt that Bassa politics had been getting deadly weeks leading to the countys dual championships in football and basketball triumphs. War of words, including some of the worst uncouth words, had been leaving from the mouths of the political missiles of Bassa politicians either eyeing or having an interest in the pending senatorial race few months away. But on that day, the day when thousands of Bassonians gathered at the Monrovia Junction in Buchanan to begin the grand march while hundreds lined the streets, politics were buried; at least while the celebrations lasted. Even without Brumskine and Findley, the Bassonians celebrated as supporters from both sides probably forgot about their respective political idols. The pair happens to be the countys current political giants, with each gowning their own line of political generations of loyalists who seem prepare to go extra miles in showing their unflinching loyalties to their respective political godfathers. Oh yes, they stand ready to do anything deadly to each others political camp if the need arises in protecting their respective political bases. But certainly, not during those days (from the days their teams qualified for the Monrovia knockout stages) up to last weekends celebrations in the county. Others argue that the presence of the pair could have probably changed the environment. Whether it was Gods timely intervention that prevented them from attending, the end result was a very joyous and tolerant celebration from the people of Grand Bassa County who seemed ready to have shown past winners how they (like immediate past winners Grand Cape Mount, Nimba, Bong, others) probably under-celebrated their respective triumphs. Besides Senator Findley and Representative Mary Kaiwor, the other five Bassa lawmakers including Senator Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence, Deputy Speaker Hans Barchue and Representatives Byron Brown, Gabriel Buchanan Smith and Robertson Siaway all graced the occasion while LPRCs T. Nelson Williams, II led an array of Monrovia-based Bassonians to include Simeon Freeman, Cllr. T.C. Gould, LBDIs John B.S. Davies, Israel Akinsanya, Levi Deemah, the LNPs Victor Gboyah, Chris Neyor, James Salinsa Debbah, Sundaygar Dearboy, among others. Behind the scene activities in extensive planning leading to Saturdays successful program saw no political divide when prominent, eminent and ordinary Bassonians to include media personnel, marketers and student representatives joined hands and shared ideas under the T. Nelson Williams led-planning committee. At the end of it all, the theme was crafted and realized: Two Trophies, One Goal. Bassa First! It was also interesting when the acting head of the countys legislative caucus, Representative Smith, in presenting the trophies to the county, remarked: By virtue of the level of collaboration and coordination that existed amongst us as members of the Bassa Legislative Caucus, with God above and the support from the county administration and all of our citizens, our elders. Distinguished people of Grand Bassa County, it is now our humble and singular pleasure to on behalf of the Bassa Legislative caucus, present these trophies over to the peace loving people of Grand Bassa County.... May God bless us. Several others not even connected to the county dominant by an apparent group of Monrovia-based social lovers and other lawmakers of the current 53rd National Legislature including Lofas Eugene Fallah Kparkar, Nimbas Matenokay Tingban, and Montserrados Acarious Gray didnt mind the huge inconveniences that characterized the city arising from the overcrowdedness of Buchanan from Friday evening till early Monday morning. Now, it is clear from the Bassa victory that Bassonians, inspite of all the different political ideologies, can achieve a whole lot more in propelling that great county to higher heights once politics can die for a while just as it did throughout the National County Meet till the countys victory. Above it all, it was Bassa who won: Two Trophies, One Goal.Bassa First! May Bassa always win so we can always bring out the general good we all share. At least we have all proudly converted our battle song from A Mu Wa Badian, Deh Wu Ya Yun (We shall beat them, they shall be shame) to a victorious one A Na Wa Badian, Deh Na Ya Yun (Weve beaten them, they have been made shame). Nat Bayjay is a Media Consultant/ Communication specialist. He hails from Grand Bassa County and was very instrumental in his countys County Meet Glory when he served as the media specialist on the Sundaygar Dearboy led Mobilization Committee. Hes reachable on:nbayjay2010@gmail.com/0777402737.

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, February 04, 2014 Wednesday, 5, 2014

Page 10d Page 5

With Conscience N. Tequah 0886345843

consciencetequah@gmail.com

n continuation of our feature on Market Women in the Spotlight, our Women and Family Desk took a tour of Buchanan Grand Bassa County over the weekend and visited several markets. Our reporter spoke to market women, who equally face challenges like their counterparts in Monrovia. Although some views were contrary to what many people normally say about market women wanting to work in their trade forever, many still expressed their satisfaction over being able to make meaningful contributions to their respective families. I was able to visit the Zogar Market located on Tubman Street, the Corn Farm Market where the welcome gate was located, the General Market and the Monrovia Junction Market located at the entrance of the City. Since the W&F page started focusing on Market Women, I have realized that one of the main challenges market women face is transporting their goods from one point to another. Because of dilemma, market women spend more than they gain monthly. Imagine a market woman buying a bag of bitter kola at a cost of L$1,600 and transporting it from Lofa County. She is then forced to pay a total of nearly L$3,000 for round-trip transportation. At this point, she has already used L$4,600 in the process. After she returns home she sells the kola nuts L$10 or 20 for one. At times she may not be able to earn L$500 a week. It is possible that before that bag is finished, a good portion of the kola has gotten rotten, thus becoming useless to the market and consumers. Another example is a market woman who buys a bag of fresh pepper for L$2,000 and sells it for L$5 per pile. How much is she expected to gain before the entire bag is finished or before a bulk of that pepper gets rotten? During my tour, I was fortunate to meet with men doing business in the markets also. Some were there to help their wives, while oth-

Market Women in the Spotlight 3

Market Women in the Spotlight theme Picture

ers were there to make livelihoods for their families, claiming that the market does not belong to women alone. Our first encounter was with 28 year old Miss Olivia Janjay, a seller of fresh fish in the Zogar Market. Miss Janjay is a committed mother of two who has been a business woman for 2 years. She revealed to us that she is a high school dropout. Ms. Janjay said she gets her fish from the beach in Fanti Town; Buchanans only fishing community. Most times we are able to get fish, but in those cases when we are not able to get it (fish) we do not sell that day. You buy the fish according to the quantity you want and sell according to the quantity you have. Overall, it is based on how you buy the fish on the beach. Its stressful. We leave our houses as early as 6:30am just to make sure we are on the beach in time to get the best fish. After we leave the beach we go straight to the market. We are careful to avoid the fish sleeping overnight before for it gets spoilt the next day; that means we will lose the money we spent on buying the fish in the first place. My business is very important to me. This is how I feed my kids and parents so its dear to my heart. Old age has caught up with my parents. And I have to take care of them. I hope to continue my business because I love it so much, she declared. We also spoke to 39 year old Marmonde Browne, a mother of three and a resident of the Tarbah community. Madame Browne sells pig foot, chicken feet, spare ribs and other frozen food at the Corn Farm Community market located at the former welcome gate. She has been a business woman for 6 years now. Madam Browne said with her kind of business, transportation and storage is a problem. She said transportation and storage consumed a lot of her profits over the years. Transporting my pig foot barrels from Monrovia to here is costly. We buy the Barrels for over L$3,000 and pay L$200 for transportation. We also have to keep it in cold storage, which cost us almost L$1,000 a month. We cannot hike up the prices because we bought these things expensive. If we do, the people will not buy it. So we just have to maintain the normal price in other to sell these items. When my market stays longer than I expect I have to sell it cheaper than the usual price just so that I can make a profit from those items. I am not satisfied with what I am doing. But since I am not fit for any other business, I have to cope with the one I have. Since I lost my husband, I have managed to feed my children from this business. I sell day and night, rain or shine just to keep them going. So I am asking the Government of Liberia to create more job opportunities for unskilled/ uneducated people, she pleaded. 56 year old Josephine Gaye, a resident of the Fair Ground Community and a trader in its general market

sells potato greens. She said selling greens is only good business during the Rainy Season. My business has helped me, but not very much. I am saying this because we only have good greens to sell during the rains when they grow fresh. During the dry season, people hardly buy greens because they think they are not fresh. I have my garden in my yard so I use the entire dry season to plant then I sell during the raining season. What is helps me is that my husband is a security

guard and our combined incomes help make a meaningful contribution to the family. I love what I am doing and have no intention of leaving my business for anything else, she concluded. Lastly, we spoke to Alphanso Tarpeh at the Monrovia Junction Market. He is 32 years old and sells Rice. Alphanso said he believes the market was not made for women alone. I love to be among women in the market because I love their company. I have learned what it means to maintain a business. It allows me to send my child to school. I buy a bag of Rice for US$40.00 per bag and sell it for L$20 or L$25 per cup of rice. We make a profit but not immediately because people do not buy the rice all at once. Transportation is not much of a problem. I dont consider the L$30 or L$40 I pay on motor bike a problem. What I am not satisfied with is the increasing price of rice. I buy the rice one bag at a time because of the price; its too high to buy two bags. This is why we are asking the Government to please see what they can do about the price of Rice in this Country, he said.

Found at all major supermarkets in downtown Monrovia

DAILY OBSERVER

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

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West Society Africa by functioning democracy, governance, theto rule of law,Monrovia, basic and he global widespread Open Foundations Network. OSIWA support thefreedoms, creation of open societies civicmarked participation. Its headquarters is in good Dakar and itworks has offices in Abuja, Freetown CDMinInternational is contracted to USAID to implement the widespread civic participation. Its headquarters is in Dakar and it has offices in Abuja, Monrovia, Freetown and Conakry. Engineering Services for Rural Road Rehabilitation Project (ES3R). st Africa marked by functioning democracy, good governance, the rule of law, basic freedoms, and and Conakry. The Project is operational in four Counties, Lofa, Nimba, Bong OSIWA seeks proposals aimed at achieving the following specific objectives in the priority countries listed espread civic participation. Its headquarters is in Dakar and it has offices in Abuja, Monrovia, Freetown and Grand Bassa. Cardno Emerging Markets USA, Ltd. is the OSIWA proposals aimed at achieving the following specific objectives in the priority countries listed beside eachseeks objective: each objective: subcontractor to CDM on ES3R. CDM and Cardno have three field Conakry. beside Improve quality and conduct of elections (Benin, Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal); Improve quality and of conduct of elections (Benin, Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal); Increase effectiveness Parliaments (Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone);
teams based in Voinjama, Gbarnga and Ganta.

Vacancy Announcement SITE INSPECTORS FOR RURAL ROAD The Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) is a grant making and advocacy foundation that is part The Open Society Initiative for West Africa (OSIWA) is a grant making and advocacy foundation that is part of the global Open Society Foundations Network. OSIWA is works to support the creation of open societies foundation in REHABILITATION Open Society Initiative West Africa (OSIWA) a grant making and advocacy that is part of the global Openfor Society Foundations Network. OSIWA works tothe support creation of open societies West Africa marked by functioning democracy, good governance, rule the of law, basic freedoms, and in
2014 CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2014 CALL FOR PROPOSALS 2014 CALL FOR PROPOSALS

WA seeks proposals aimed at achieving the followingLiberia, specific objectives in the priority countries listed E.M. now wishes to recruit a Site Inspector for each team. Cardno Increase effectiveness of Parliaments (Benin, Ghana, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone); Enhance Citizens participation in Local Governance and Decentralization (Liberia, Niger, Senegal, de each objective: Leone); Sierra Enhance Citizens participation in Local Governance and Decentralization (Liberia, Niger, Senegal,
Sierra Leone); Ensure Natural Resource Management frameworks are effective (Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone);

Ensure Natural Resource Management frameworks are effective (Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Effectively strengthen prevention and information systems to reduce Militancy and Violence (Mali, Niger, Reduce the impact of Drug Trafficking on Governance (Region wide); CDM and Cardno have three field based teams consisting of a Team Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone); Nigeria);
Effectively strengthen prevention andvulnerable informationgroups systems to differently-abled reduce Militancy persons and Violence (Mali, Promote the rights of women, youth, and (Ghana, Niger,Liberia, Nigeria); Guinea, Senegal, Sierra Leone); Guinea, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone);
Leader, a Field Engineer and a Site Inspector.

ES3R has three primary objectives: oversight of three road rehabilitation contracts Improve quality and conduct of elections (Benin, Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal)1. Construction ; in the counties of Bong (49km), Lofa (14km) and Nimba Ensure Natural Resource Management frameworks are effective (Ghana, Guinea, Liberia, Niger, Support alternative for Anti-Corruption enforcement (Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, (21km). Nigeria, Senegal,means Sierra Leone); Increase effectiveness Nigeria, Senegal); of Parliaments (Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Niger, Senegal, Sierra Leone); 2. Detailed design of 450 km of farm to market roads in Lofa, Support alternative means for Anti-Corruption enforcement (Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Bong, Nimba and Grand Bassa scheduled for construction be Enhance social demand for accountability and effective public service delivery especially in health Nigeria, Senegal); Enhance Citizens participation in Local Governance and Decentralization (Liberia, Niger, Senegal, tween 2015 2018. and education sectors (Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone); Enhance social demand for accountability and effective public service delivery especially in health 3. Capacity development of Liberian architectural and Sierra Leone); Enhance citizenship rights(Liberia, and social cohesion (Region wide); and education sectors Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone); engineering firms in design and contract supervision of rural Reduce the impact of Drug Trafficking on Governance (Region wide); road projects. Enhance citizenship rights and social cohesion (Region wide);

Support alternative means for Anti-Corruption enforcement (Benin, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Cardno now wishes to recruit suitably qualified Site Inspectors, iniImprove Promote the rights of women, youth, vulnerable differently-abled persons (Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal); tially for a one year period. criminal and administration of Justice (Ghana,groups Nigeria,and Senegal);
The initial and primary function of the Site Inspectors will be moni Enhance social demand for accountability and effective public service delivery especially in health toring and reporting on road construction activities and support in and education sectors (Liberia, Mali, Senegal, Sierra Leone); Ensure inclusive constitutional review processes (Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Sierra Address the challenges and potentials of International Criminal Justice for legal accountability the preparation of detailed road designs. However, the SIs will be
Address the challenges and potentials of International Criminal Justice for legal accountability dIvoire, Guinea, Mali, Sierra Leone) ; (Cote Improve criminal andLiberia, administration of Justice (Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal); Leone); (Coteand dIvoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone); Nigeria, Senegal, Leone); and Sierra Leone)

Enhance citizenship rights and social cohesion wide); Promote to Information andreview Media Freedom (Region (Benin, dIvoire, Ghana, Niger, Ensureaccess inclusive constitutional processes (Benin,Cote Ghana, Liberia, Mali,Liberia, Nigeria, Sierra Reduce the impact of Drug on Governance (Region wide); The detailed OSIWA strategy is Trafficking available at www.osiwa.org Promote access to Information and Media Freedom (Benin, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, Liberia, Niger,
Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone)

Effectively (Mali, Requirements Eligibilitystrengthen prevention and information systems to reduce Militancy and Violence Minimum The detailed OSIWA strategy is available at www.osiwa.org OSIWA primarily awards grants to local organizations based in West Africa. In rare and limited Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering Niger, Nigeria); circumstances, it provides support to West Africa-based international organizations with a strong Promote theprimarily rightsawards of women, vulnerable groups OSIWA grants to youth, local organizations based in West and Africa.differently-abled In rare and limited persons circumstances, it provides Sierra support Leone); to West Africa-based international organizations with a strong Guinea, Liberia, Senegal,
insticriminal tutions as wel l as administration regional and sub-regiof onal organizati(Ghana, ons workingNigeria, in its core pri orities areas. OSIWA Improve and Justice Senegal);
commitment to transfer knowledge to local groups they partner with. It provides grants to government
commitment Eligibility to transfer knowledge to local groups they partner with. It provides grants to government

mentored by senior staff and be included in training delivered to A&E firms. It is anticipated that as SI performance improves they will be assigned additional responsibilities. It is expected by end of the first project year successful SI will be promoted to field engineer position.

Ensure inclusive constitutional review processes (Benin, Ghana, Liberia, Mali, Submission and Deadlines Leone); and Proposals should be sent directly to: proposals@osiwa.org and will be accepted until May 30th 2014.

requires all organizations seeking funding to submit a completed application form, budget, work plan monitoring and evaluationand framework and other of relevant documents incluCriminal ding leadershiJustice p informatiofor n (lislegal t Address the challenges potentials International of Board members, trustees and management), staff who wil be;involved in the project, proof of registration (Cote dIvoire, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Sierra Leone) and banking details. Applications that are not submitted with all the relevant documentation wil be delayed.

Desired requirements Driving license for motor cars and motorcycles Experience in rural road design Knowledge of engineering materials and compliance tests Nigeria, Sierra Cardno EM USA in an equal opportunities employer and strongly supports the application of applications from suitably qualified Liberia, Niger, females. Interested candidates should send resume (with two references from recent employers) and covering letter to Aliya.Simonyan@ cardno.com or delivered to the Office Manager care of CDM International, ES3R Project Office, Old Road Congo Town in an envelope clearly marked Application for the Position of Site Inspector.

accountability

Minimum of two years of site based experience in contract management and construction supervision, preferably in road (Ghana, works Computer and IT literate Competent knowledge of autoCAD software Ability to work and perform in a dynamic high pressure working environment

OSIWA encourages the early submission of proposals. Submitted proposals wil be reviewed on a first Promote access to Information and Media Freedom (Benin, Cote dIvoire, Ghana, come, first-served basis. Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone) The time required to review a proposal varies according to the complexity of the proposal, the problem being detailed OSIWA strategy is available atngwww.osiwa.org addressed, and the number of proposals bei reviewed. Generally, it can take up to three months from the time a proposal is received to the actual award of a grant, although OSIWA strives to be as expeditious as possible in its review of inquiries and proposals. Please keep this in mind when planning.

ibility WA primarily awards grantsareto organizations based in West Africa. In rare andThe limited The appl ication documents availlocal able at http://www.osiwa.org/index.php/en/grants closing date for applications is 14 February 2014 umstances, it provides support to West Africa-based international organizations with a strong mitment to transfer knowledge to local groups they partner with. It provides grants to government

DAILY OBSERVER Republic of Liberia

Wednesday, February 5, 2014 Republic of Liberia

Page 6a 8

Civil Service Reform and Capacity Building Project

Civil Service Agency

Civil Service Agency

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (Testing Consultant Firm)
EOI NO: CSA/SG/TC/11/13 IDA GRANT ID: TF 010792

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST (REOI) (International Consultant)

IDA GRANT ID: TF No. 010792 Assignment Title: Request for expression of interest Conducting the Mandates & Functions Review (MFR) of Ministries and Agencies The Government of Liberia (GoL) through the Civil Service Agency (CSA) has received a grant from the International Development Association (IDA) for strengthening Governance-Civil Service Reforms and Capacity Building Project (CSRCBP). The Civil Service Agency intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for hiring an individual consultant to conduct the mandates & functions Review of ministries and Agencies. The objectives of the assignment are as follows: Complete the MFRs of the above-mentioned Ministries; Complete the review and editing of all completed ministries; and Build the capacity of local staff to conduct MFRs. The duration of the assignment: The timescale of the assignment is for a period of 70 working days. The Civil Service Agency now invites eligible Individual Consultants to indicate their interest in providing the services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services by submitting their detailed information (CV, brochures, past performance records, references of similar assignments executed in the recent past). They must also provide description of work experience both general and on similar assignments. Specific experience on World Bank funded projects will be an added advantage. Selection will be based on qualifications and experience stipulated below. Consulting firms are allowed to propose individuals for this assignment. However, only the experience and qualifications of individuals shall be used in the selection process, and corporate experience shall not be taken into account and the contract would be signed with the proposed individual. Qualifications and experience: i. The Firm- not less than 5-year experience in similar work with World Bank or Donor Funded Projects; ii. Key professional staff The following are the minimum Key Staff required for the assignment: a) Principal Consultant: An advanced degree in Economics, Finance, Law, Business Administration, Project Management, Public Administration or Public Policy (possession of doctorate with an in-depth knowledge of governance reforms trends, and best practices in the global context is an advantage); At least ten years of relevant experience, five years of which shall be related to policy analysis; Extensive experience in research, policy level analysis, technical advice and publications, especially in mandate and functional reviews of public institutions; Experience in Africa and post conflict settings. Computer literate, proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and IT packages; Excellent oral communication, negotiating and writing skills; Provide vision for organizational growth; and Must provide sample of professional work done b) Consultants: A minimum of a related undergraduate degree c) Human Resources Specialist: Must have a minimum Masters Degree (preferably MBA) At least 3-5 years professional work experiences Specialized knowledge and experience of HR management The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World Banks Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits & Grants by World Bank Borrowers (January 2011). (Consultant Guidelines), setting forth the World Banks policy on conflict of interest. An individual Consultant will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the World Banks Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits and Grants by World Bank Borrowers dated January 2011. Interested Individual Consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours from 09:00 and 17:00hours, Mondays to Fridays. Expressions of interest must be delivered on a written form clearly marked: Ref: Consultancy: MFR of the CSRCBP at the address below in person or by mail or by email) on or before Friday, February 7, 2014 at 16:00hours. The Consultant/Projector Coordinator Civil Service Reform and Capacity Building Project Civil Service Agency 63 Carey Street, Monrovia, Liberia Email: yaidooshy11@gmail.com Attention: The Consultant/Project Coordination-CSRCBP

REQUEST FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST

he Government of Liberia (GoL) through the Civil Service Agency (CSA) has received a grant from the International Development Association (IDA) for Strengthening Governance-Civil Service Reforms and Capacity Building Project (CSRCBP). The Civil Service Agency intends to apply part of the proceeds of this grant to eligible payments under the contract for hiring a Testing Consultant Firm to develop new Civil Services Tests that will reflect Regional and International Standards and meet the requirements of the CSA. The CSA administers sixty-nine qualifying tests to individuals desirous of entering the service. Most of these tests have been administered for more than 20 years and need urgent revision to reflect the changing realities of the social, economic and technological environment which the public service has undergone since the development of these tests. OBJECTIVES OF THIS CONSULTANCY, to: Under take the revision of the existing Civil Service Entrance Tests that are currently administered by the CSA. Develop new tests as necessary and, Develop and execute a capacity building plan to train staff of the CSA to undertake similar tasks in future. The assignment is estimated to cover approximately 100 staff-days over 150 calendar days. The start date of the assignment will be no later than seven (7) days upon the signing of the contract. The Civil Service Agency now invites eligible Consulting Firms to indicate their interest in providing this services. Interested consultants must provide information indicating that they are qualified to perform the services by submitting their detailed information (brochures, past performance records, references of similar assignments executed in the recent past). They must also provide description of work experience both general and on similar assignments. Specific experience on World Bank funded projects will be an added advantage. The shortlisting criteria are: Experience in undertaking similar assignments and number of years in business; Experience in working with the World Bank and/or Donor-funded Projects; Technical and Managerial Organization of the Firm; Availability of Competent Staff with relevant qualificatioin and experience to undertake the assignment; Experience developing Civil Service tests in the Sub-Sahara African Region. The attention of interested Consultants is drawn to paragraph 1.9 of the World Banks Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultants under IBRD Loans and IDA Credits & Grants by World Bank Borrowers (January 2011). (Consultant Guidelines), setting forth the World Banks policy on conflict of interest. Consultants may associate with other firms in the form of a joint venture or a sub-consultancy to enhance their qualifications.

A Consultant firm will be selected in accordance with the procedures set out in the World Banks Guidelines: Selection and Employment of Consultabts by World Bank Borrowers, Selection is Based on the Consultants Qualifications (CQS) as set out in consultant Guidelines (May 2004, Revised October 1, 2006, May 1, 2010 & January 2011). Interested Consultants may obtain further information at the address below during office hours from 09:00 and 17:00hours, Mondays to Fridays. Expressions of interest must be delivered in a written form clearly marked: Ref: Testing Consultant of the CSRCBP at the address below in person or by mail or by email on or before Friday, February 14, 2014 at 17:00hours. The Consultant/Projector Coordinator Civil Service Reform and Capacity Building Project Civil Service Agency 63 Carey Street, Monrovia, Liberia Email: syaidoo11@gmail.com Attention: The Consultant/Project Coordination-CSRCBP

DAILY OBSERVER

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page 6b 9

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT
11 and 12 Streets, Paynes Avenue, Sinkor Monrovia, Liberia Telephone 231 776 399 312 www.rti.org
th

EXCELLENCE IN HIGHER EDUCATION FOR LIBERIAN DEVELOPMENT (EHELD)

A Transportation Company seeks the services of Heavy Duty Bus Driver(s).

1. JOB TITLE: DUTY STATION: EFFECTIVE: HEAVY DUTY BUS DRIVER MONROVIA (Must be willing to travel through out the country when the need arises) IMMEDIATELY

Short Term Vacancy: Administrative Assistant/Gbarnga

RTI is an independent non-profit research and technical services institute headquartered in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, USA. Since 1958, RTI has provided clients in over 150 countries with cutting edge research and technical assistance in the areas of education and training, economic and social policy and planning, democratic governance and institutional development, energy and the environment, survey and statistics, health and pharmaceuticals, advanced technologies and product commercialization, and laboratory and chemistry services. RTI is an equal opportunity employer. RTI is actively seeking an experienced and dynamic Administrative Assistant for a short term contract to be based in the RTI Project Sub Office on Cuttington University campus, Suakoko, Bong County. Under the direct supervision of the Agriculture Education Adviser (AEA), the Administrative Assistant will provide administrative, logistical and clerical support to the EHELD Sub Office and Contract Faculties assigned to the College of Agriculture and Sustainable Development at Cuttington University. These responsibilities include but are not limited to: Procurement of goods and services for the project sub office in consultation with the AEA, Admin. Assistant/Monrovia and Finance Manager; Management of office vehicles and fuel coupons and cards; Submission of monthly fuel reports; Coordination of staff/Contract Faculty vehicle requests for approval; Receiving, responding and filing office correspondence; Arranging and setting up meetings, workshops and conference calls; Preparing meeting minutes; Managing office petty cash and general office & guesthouse supplies; Maintenance of inventory of all office and guesthouse assets; Responding to request from Monrovia-based Administrative Assistance; Overseeing project guesthouse maintenance; Performing other tasks as maybe requested by the AEA, and COP/DCOP or their designee. Minimum Qualifications: A. AA degree in a relevant subject and 2 years professional experience, supervisory experience preferred. B. Experience in Office administration, logistics management and event/meeting coordination. C. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills D. Fluency in written and spoken English. To Apply: Interested applicants should submit resume/CV, cover letter, and three (3) references to: pgony@eheld.rti. org or at the RTI Office located b/w 11th & 12th Streets, Payne Avenue, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia or the EHELD Sub Office, RDI Building, Cuttington University Campus, Suakoko, Bong County, no later than 4:30pm prompt on Friday, February 7, 2014.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATION: Minimum of 5yrs direct experience driving Heavy Duty Busses. Minimum of High School Qualification Valid Heavy Duty Drivers license. Ability to read, write and express well in English language Mechanical knowledge is an added advantage OUR OFFER: Long-term stability of employment based on satisfactory performance Attractive salary PLEASE NOTE THAT BOTH QUALIFIED MALE AND FEMALE APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY. HOW TO APPLY: Address your Applications and envelop to the Hiring Coordinator for Transportation Monrovia, Liberia. Prepare 1 Cover letter explaining why you are best suitable for the job. Also state specifically the type of Heavy Duty Bus driven and for which duration of time. Attach your CV with 3 references and a passport photo. Send by email to mweah34@yahoo.com or drop hardcopy with the receptionist @ Global Trust Assurance Opp. Eden Waters, 20th Street Cheeseman Ave Sinkor (Fiamah way) Monrovia, Liberia. VACANCY CLOSING DATE: 28TH FEBRUARY 2014 @ 5PM.

INVEST TODAY! Visit our branches and be a proud owner of CEMENCO

Liberian Bank for Development and Investment

PUBLIC NOTICE TO ALL RESIDENTS OF THE WEST POINT COMMUNITY

February 2, 2014 Please be informed that there will be a survey conducted within the general area allocated for the construction of our New Community Center/Town hall by the firm of Design Builders DChristell. This survey is hereby granted and approved by the Commissioner of West Point. This survey will be conducted on Saturday February 8th, 2014 at the precise hour of 10:00am. We advise that all those with legitimate concerns, and special use permits granted to occupy areas affected by this survey to please be present, and have in their possession legal documents proving their specific claim/s. Residents are hereby advised to take note and act accordingly as this will be the only chance to state your interest and prove your claim/s. Please let us work together for the Good and benefit of our community as we strive to create a new and better image for our Community. This notice is hereby approved for distribution by the Honorable Commissioner Flowers of the West Point Community.

Information Memorandum

LBDI Central Monrovia Branch Ashmun & Randall Streets Monrovia, Liberia.

Private Placement of 206,572

Common Stocks of the Liberia Cement Corporation at US$12 per Stock Payable in Full On Application
This offer document is simply an Information Memorandum and does not in any respect represent a prospectus. The offer document and the securities that it bears are directed at selected investors as well as the members of the general public. Every prospective investor to whom this document has been addressed is expected to conduct independent evaluation of the Financial Position and operating results of the Liberia Cement Company.

LBDI Sinkor Branch 9th Street, Sinkor, Tubman Boulevard, Monrovia, Liberia

OFFER CONDITIONS:
Individual: Minimum of 5 stocks at US$12 each Institutions: Minimum of 1,000 Common stocks and additional common stock in multiple of 100.

Procedures: 1. Application forms are free and available at LBDI Branches on 9th Street Sinkor and Randall & Ashmun Streets 2. Payment can be made by Cash, Managers Check or Debit Authorization

NOV. 18, 2013: Close of Offer: Feb. 18, 2014

SIGNED BY: __________________________________ Commissioner West Point Community APPROVED BY:_______________________________ Magistrate West Point Community CC: Kenneth Y Best Adolphus G. Mccritty-Architect for the Project

DAILY OBSERVER Wednesday, February 5, 2014

suspended the US$1 million lease agreement between LTA and a Chinese construction company, Qinjian International, for a building LTA intended to secure as office. President Sirleaf took the decision to freeze the account of the LTA on Tuesday February 4, 2014 Though the release from the Executive Mansion indicates that the LTA intends to secure the building as office space, credible sources have it that LTA has indeed relocated

LTA Account

Page 6c 6
last-week move. While not cheap, the new location allows the LTA to foster greater unity among employees and provide an excellent area for the International Gateway Monitoring System that takes up an entire floor. It was indicated that the West Africa Regional Communications Project was also relocating to the site in March. The cost of the move was budgeted and approved in our 20132014 budget. We have been very transparent about this whole procedure
and Grand Cape Mount Counties, but were limited to the former Guthrie Rubber Plantation that once commanded no more than 10,000 hectares of land. Community residents and traditional landowners in the two counties have been reluctant to surrender much land to the company beyond those limits, citing traditional lands and other constraints related cultural and economics. Though the concession agreement requires that SDPL to engaging in community development programs, which the company is abiding by, the locals are said to be requiring more from the Malaysian investor then it expected. Mr. Hassan admitted to frustrations encountered by his company, but insisted that SDPLs primary concern---at least for the time being---is to ensure that it reconciles itself with the

its offices to where they are paying a steeper figure in the range of $385,000 per year for the lease of the property. Sources said that consolidating all their employees in one location rather than three or four, cuts down on the number of security personnel; the cost of generator and fuel at the previous premises. The building in question is located on the Congo Town back road, around the Chinese Embassy. The LTA last week

left its 12th street headquarters and relocated in the Congo Town area, a move that may have been done without the consent of the Liberian leader. The process of leasing the building, it is strongly believed, was approved by the Public Procurement Concessions Commission, the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Justice, but the President might have preferred being informed of the move. The Finance Ministry, according to one source, was fully involved with the lease-

agreement, as it had to approve the expenditure. The Justice Ministry was involved as well, since the lease involved a private party and a government entity. The PPCC had been on board from the beginning, to make sure we followed procedures as stipulated in the guidelines. We have no problem renting from legitimate landlords who pay taxes to government, the source said. The LTA earlier had leased three buildings at three different locations, prior to its

pursuant to the PPCC Act. We looked at other buildings and considered other locations before the final choice was made, a source said. Asked why the LTA does not just purchase a building or buy and build, we were told that they intend to find a location that will allow them to accommodate their growing staff, as well as for Spectrum Monitoring equipment. We would prefer to build but we have to find the right location to allow for expansion and growth.
communities. We didnt just come here to do business; we also have a mandate to help out of poverty, the people in the communities that we are investing in, Mr. Hassan declared. One of such responsibilities is the training of young university students in agriculture and oil palm management. The students are mainly from the University of Liberia; they are being trained at the companys headquarters in Bomi County. Mr. Hassan told our reporter that SDPL is preparing for a better future as it trains young Liberians to take over the management of the company. These young people are the ones that will take over this company and manage it tomorrow, he added. He predicted that the time will come when SDPL will be 100% managed by Liberians.

Oil Refinery Soon

Courtesy of Sime Darby Plantation

-Company Begins Training Young Liberians in Agriculture

r. Roslin Azmy Hassan, General Manager of Sime Darby Plantation Liberia, (SDPL) last week told reporters that even though that company continues to face many challenges as is typical of any companys early growth and development, SDPL is on the verge of building a modern oil palm refinery in Bomi County, Liberia. We have completed the feasibility studies for the refinery and so the project will hopefully materialize this year, he said, adding that building

of Staff is currently Brigade Commander of the AFL. If confirmed by the Liberian Senate, Col, Ziankhan will replace the Nigerian Command Officer-in-Charge, Major General Suraj Alao Abdurrahman. The nominations were made in keeping with Article 54, Section E, of the Liberian Constitution which authorizes the President to nominate and, with the consent of the Senate, appoint and commission members of the military from the rank of Lieutenant or equivalent and above.

President Sirleaf

a refinery is part of SDPLs concession agreement with the government of Liberia. The refinery will further enhance his companys confidence in Liberia while exposing the countrys investment potential. The refinery will pave the way for the Malaysian oil palm giant to process its raw oil palm into finished goods. The announcement comes as SDPL has already begins scout harvesting some of its oil palm products, which are already ripening. If built on schedule, the refinery will create additional employment for the people in

(R-l) Mr. Hassan introduces the trainees to reporters

the concession areas. To buttress the general managers comments, Already, SDPL has gone over and beyond its call to civic duty, building several schools, clinics, and recreation centers for its employees and their families. Mr. Sharmarhoddin Abu Samah, chief engineer of the refinery, disclosed that SDPL will build a refinery for every 70,000 hectares of land planted by the concessionaire. Mr. Samah, however, told our business desk that the project is cost-intensive and requires some technical steps. The refinery is to be constructed by engineers from Malaysia. Local skills and labor will be prominently featured, this paper was told, The government of Liberia, in 2009, awarded over 220,000 hectares of land to Sime Darby in a concession agreement that has a lifespan of 63 years. A year later in 2010, the company began operations in Bomi

In a letter addressed to the Liberian Senate, President Sirleaf said the officers have met all the requirements necessary, including advance and strategic training at various military institutions, and their deportment and discipline have been highly commended by the countrys international partners involved in restructuring of the AFL. They have my full confidence, the President stated in the letter. President Sirleaf had, during her Annual Message delivery on January 27, 2014 that in my

President Sirleaf now wants Liberians to take over their own army; here is seen marching with the outgoing CO, General Suraj Abdurrahman (in the directly behind her), who is a Nigerian
suspicion and misinterpretation of their intentions by some, and will also clarify the mechanism in the current budget law relating to decision-making on the county development funds - - county, district, and social (CDF,DDF and SDF). The Party also suggests that in order to further improve public understanding and perception of the initiative, the House of Representative quickly commissions a desk-review of the existing mechanism for the CDF and SDF. The findings of the deskreview will inform the debate (hopefully through evidential and factual data) in preparation for the next budget cycle, the letter stated. It added: The budget law must clarify ho0w residents of the various electoral districts will meet; decide on; and ensure that funds appropriated for district development is expeditiously used and not abused, with full accountability and transparency at all levels. The House Speaker, J. Alex Tyler has mandated Chief Clerk Mildred Sayon to thanked the UPP for their appreciation and they have take notes the suggestions. Meanwhile, according to the Press and Public Affairs Bureau of the House of Representatives, members of the House of Representatives will not issue vouchers or receive a penny to implement projects to be identified for direct district development across the 73 electoral districts of the country, if House Speakers proposed US$73m is approved in the 2014/2015 national budget. The clarity is stemmed from assertions in some quarters that the proposal is meant to put a million dollars in each lawmaker pocket, the Bureau maintained that the intent of the proposal is to see rapid growth in the living standards of the rural dwellers, many of whom have been deprived for decades of good homes, bad roads, unsafe drinking water, health and educational facilities. The House Speakers propos-

By Leroy M. Sonpon, III

UPP Supports US$73m Direct District Development Fund

ed January 30, 2014, but read yesterday in Houses Plenary, said the desire to increase the County Development Funds (CDF) and make the appropriations electoral district-sensitive is a strong indication that members of the House of the 53rd Legislature are prepared to accelerate the process of decentralizing the Government of Liberia. The United Peoples Party believes that just as the post civil-war electoral process has compelled Liberians who are interested in politics to connect with their constituencies and has provided an opportunity for Liberians, especially the indigenous rural people to vote in their respective localities for Representatives, Senators and the President so, too, the allocation of funds directly to the electoral districts will persuade

last years Annual Message: I indicated that we would, at the 2014 Armed Forces Day Celebration, install a Liberian Army Chief of Staff. Having consulted the relevant committees and your good selves, we have officially nominated, for confirmation by the Honorable Senate, the Chief of Staff, the Deputy Chief of Staff and the Brigade Commander, all of whom, if confirmed, would be installed in these positions on February 11, Armed Forces Day. We will then bid farewell to General Suraj Abdurrahman who has served us so well as the Command Officer-inCharge.
al comes amid appeals for attention from the rural dwellers during the recent nationwide tour by Members of the Legislature late last year, says the Press Bureau. Under the Financial Management Laws of Liberia, the Executive Branch expends collected revenue and reports to the Legislature. The Legislature has at no time or will never indulge in usurping the function of the other branch to administrator Public funds. The Plenary of the House at its 3rd Day Sitting endorsed the proposal after members overwhelmingly voted to in favor of Lofa 4 (UP) Hon. Mariamu Fofana s request for that body to give a thump up to the Speaker s 73 M per District Proposal. The House, in supporting the idea, also called on the Liberian Senate to give its support to the suggestion to infuse the money for direct district development projects. It will be a well deserved legacy, the letter said.

iberias second oldest political party, the United Peoples Party (UPP) has pledged its support to the House of Representatives proposal for appropriation of US$1m per district beginning 2014/2015 fiscal year for direct support to development initiative in each of the 73 electoral districts of Liberia. The Party says it fully welcomed the initiative because it is a progressive move, which concedes some power to the rural people; and it has the potential to induce reverse-migration of the population-from urban to rural. The UPP, in its letter to the Speaker and members of the Plenary of the Honorable House of Representatives, dat-

the people to become serious. Meet and make decisions on how their wealth should be applied, the letter, under the signature of Chairman Marcus S.G.Dahn, stated. It added: Mr. Speaker and members of the Plenary, we do not share the suspicion that you, the Lawmakers, are merely seeking to enrich yourselves. To the contrary, we would rather strongly emphasize that you are well-intent, and that we have no doubt the appropriations will be used correctly. However, UPP had urged the House of Representatives to pass a Strong Legislation to protect the fund. The Party is prepared to work along with the House of Representatives in the regard, the letter said. The Party believed that the legislation would reduce the

Big Relief!
-Govt, Partners Develop Handbook for Effective Mother and Newborn Health Care in Liberia
To remedy this situation (the lack of guideline for service delivery), the Liberia government through the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (MoH&SW) United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has developed a handbook on new-born and child care for community health workers in the country. On Tuesday February 4, 2014, over 30 community health workers; technical officers from Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI), MoHSW; county health directors and MCH officers from UNICEF, WHO, USAID, Save the Children and other NGOs, gathered at the opening of a three-day workshop at a local resort to field question about and test the new handbook. According to organizers, ews that the Liberian Government and some of its partners had developed a handbook to guide the activities of health workers as to how services should be delivered to mothers and newborns at the community level, has been highly welcomed by health practitioners in the country. Health workers and other stakeholders in the sector have termed the initiative a big relief for newborns and their mothers as well as health service providers. It is noticeable in Liberia that inadequately trained health workers and a lack of data and country-specific health literature such as manuals and handbooks, are a big challenge for delivery of effective and efficient health care services in Liberia--- especially for mothers and babies in remote and hard to reach areas.

DAILY OBSERVER Wednesday, February 5, 2014

cessfully reduced chronic malnutrition from 42 to 36%, almost one-third of under-five child deaths is attributed to malnutrition. Statistic shows that an estimated 12,000 children still die every year from preventable and treatable diseases such as malaria, pneumonia and diarrhea. This is about 32 children daily. Mr. Yett noted that in 2013, UNICEF supported the Government of Liberia to further strengthen and expand community health structures in 769 communities by training 230 general Community Health Volunteers (gCHVs) in Maryland and Grand Gedeh counties. They were trained on integrated Community Case Management (iCCM) of common childhood illnesses. An additional 315 gCHVs in River Gee and Sinoe counties will be trained during the first quarter of 2014, he said. The Assistant Minister of Health for Preventive Services, Tolbert Nyenswah, lauded partners, including UNICEF, who have help tirelessly in ensuring that the document becomes a reality. He enumerated several programs, including Kangaroo Mother Care, and treatment for babies cords, initiated by the Ministry of Health to save newborns from preventable diseases. Minister Nyenswah, who is also the deputy Chief Medical Officer of Liberia, said though the government and its partners have help to drastically reduced newborn and under five mortality rates, they should not be complacent with the achievement so far. Instead, they must ensure that it is brought down to the lowest level. According to the 2013 Health Management Informa-

Page 7 6d
tion System (HMIS), approximately 40% of the estimated 4 million people in Liberia lack access to healthcare, defined as living more than five km from a health facility. UNICEF Liberia is supporting the government to implement high impact and low-cost health interventions especially in the most difficult-to-reach population in impoverished South East Liberia. At the end of the three-day workshop, it is anticipated that participants will develop an implementation action plan for newborn and child care in communities. The initiative will contribute to the countrys overall goal of accelerating reduction of under-5 child mortality rate as committed by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf during the launch of A Promise Renewed initiative in 2013.

By William Q. Harmon

the workshop will sensitize participants about the various interventions or packages on newborn and child care in communities and also highlight its benefits. It will also guide the participants to choose packages that are appropriate to specific county needs and requirements. Speaking during the opening session in Monrovia, UNICEF Liberia Representative, Sheldon Yett, emphasized skilled front-line health workers as the key for prompt and effective delivery of new-born and child health services in remote and underserved communities. Rep. Yett said that a trained workforce should be supported with timely supervision and supply of adequate medicines, vaccines and equipment to treat common childhood illnesses such as diarrhea, pneumonia and malaria, notorious for killing newborn and under five year-olds. The UNICEF boss noted that, though Liberia has suc-

Gbowee Foundation to Build US$3m Technical Institute for Girls

bigail E. Disney, producer of the award-winning film Pray the Devil Back to Hell, has pledged to donate 100,000 United States dollars to the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa if Liberians could raise the same amount by February 7, 2014 for the construction of the a technical institute named in her honor, for women and girls in Liberia. A major supporter of Nobel Laureate Leymah Gbowees foundation, Ms. Disney made the pledge at the launch of a 3 million United States Dollar fund drive for what would be called the Abigail E. Disney Technical Institute for Girls, during the GPFAs 2nd annual fundraising gala program held at the Executive Pavilion on Broad Street Friday January 31, 2014. She told the gathering that the foundation was on the right path to empower women and girls through the establishment of the Technical Institute for girls and a high school that could provide quality education to many. At the fundraiser alone, prominent personalities pledge amounts close to 30 per cent of the US$100,000 which Madam Disney promised to match. The in addition to the fundraiser, the GPFA gala featured a silent auction of several pieces of art, copies Gbowees book Mighty Be Our Powers, as well as other goods and services provided by local

By Alvin Worzi

Ellen Calls for End to Fragility in Africa

By William Q. Harmon

frican leaders must take bold steps to reverse the entrapment of the continents fragile states in poverty said President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf in her final report to the 22nd High Level Panel on Fragile States (HLP-FS)which recently ended in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Fragility is the major cause of poverty and backwardness on the continent, she said, adding that reversing the tendency can be done only through promoting friendship, partnership, optimism and commitment among all nations. President Sirleaf presented her report under the theme, Managing Change and Forging Partnerships. The HLP-FS was established in October 2012 by The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Donald Kaberuka, who invited President Sirleaf to chair the group. The panels tasks are to review the likely sources of fragility in Africa and to make recommendations for both the bank and the wider policy community to determine the way forward. According to Dr. Kaberuka, the panel was created to identify the social, political and economic hurdles that have kept the continent in a backward state for so many years. It was also intended to put the African premier bank in a better position to make informed decisions on how to conduct investment on the continent. According to a dispatch from Addis Ababa, President Sirleaf in her report said the panel

conducted a robust year-long consultative and deliberative process with African governments and civil Society. She said their responses indicated that fragility is a universal problem on the continent. All nations directly or indirectly are at risk and must work collectively to address the problem, she said. The Report calls for greater involvement of Africas continental institutions, particularly the ADB, which championed the cause to intermediate among all stakeholders of society. Special emphasis was placed on the inclusion of the private sector in order to ensure the end of fragility through resilient states. The report further calls for policies going forward, to be implemented under the framework of the following five recommendations that stipulate 1) Increased focus on potentially disruptive economic, social and environmental change; 2) new instruments for supporting private sector development in isolated communities; 3) more use of private sector and civil society capacity in delivering public goods and services; 4) investment in regional frameworks for resilience; and 5)a more integrated response to conflict and fragility. President Sirleaf noted during her presentation that countries that lack robust institutions, diversified economies and inclusive political systems are the most vulnerable, and that fragility comes about when internal and external pressure become too great for national institutions and political processes to manage thereby creating an increased risk of violence.

She noted that the analysis clearly shows fragility is rooted in poverty, and that poverty is complex and multidimensional. It has also been determined that there are special circumstances of fragile states that need to be addressed through sustainable development and inclusive growth, which take into account changing population dynamics for job creation. The analysis also considers ensuring healthy, skilled and educated individuals; promoting better management and equitable access to natural resources; reducing inequalities, especially among the continents youth and women; and increasing social protection for the most vulnerable, she said The HLP-FS head said that managing the underlying drivers of conflict require adequate policy responses to some of the most disruptive social, economic and environmental changes. She added that building resilient states and societies through stronger links between institutions and partnership at the national and regional levels, the private sector and civil society are paramount to the continents survival. The President pointed out that the report endorses the findings of the New Deal on Fragile States calling for stronger ownership, harmonization, results and mutual accountability. This would be done so that broad-based and participatory country leadership and ownership of all actors, including government, civil society and the private sector, are pre-conditioned for sustained and irreversible gains.

GPFA will build a technical school for girls, named in honor of Abigail E. Disney.
Liberian businesses that have identified with GPFAs cause. During the fundraising program, Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa recognized all of its scholarship recipients who maintained a grade-point average of 3.0 and above, while encouraging them to do better. According Madam Leymah R. Gbowee, the foundation has given international scholarships to many young women including Georgia Genoway, Korto Johnson, Ernestine Vulue, Yamah Lavelah, among others, who will be traveling abroad for studies this year in various disciplines. Madam Gbowee explained that the building of the Technical Institute for women and girls is a way of starting something for girls, adding that even they do not go to college, they can have something doing for life, and could still be on course with others in the country. Ma-Hawa Ngaim of the University of Liberia and one of the scholarship benificiaries of the Gbowee Peace Foundation Africa told the Daily Observer that the Gbowee scholarship was the best in the country, giving full support to women and girls in Africa. This is the only scholarship program in Liberia that gives school supplies, internships, and many other opportunities including workshops, academic development, and summer student exchange as part of the Foundations activities. Editors note: The Daily Observer wishes to clearify that Mr. Bai Best, Marketing Manager of Daily Observer was not one of the honorees at GPFA fundraiser as was reported in the February 3, 2014 edition, under the caption Gbowee Foundation Launches Free Education for Girls, Others. The error is sincerely regretted.

The report recognizes that Africa is changing at an extraordinary speed and that the values of peace, security and justice are central to development, said President Sirleaf. There is confidence that with the guidance and commitment of member states, measures can be implemented to ensure that in the future and in conflict-affected areas, no person, community or nation will be left behind, and ev-

erybody can look to prosperity through sustained growth and development, President Sirleaf declared. Dr. Kaberuka, for his part, thanked President Sirleaf and other panel members for accepting to serve. He observed that security and development are inseparable, and fragility, which leads to insecurity and conflict, must be tackled. The AfDB boss pointed out

that the progress made in the Central African Republic and South Sudan had been reversed due to the re-emergence of conflict, and that they would have to start all over again. He said that the report helped in understanding the factors that promote fragility, and called for concerted action based on the Panels report to address fragility sustainably.

DAILY OBSERVER

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page 7

Invitation for Bids (IFB) Republic of Liberia Expand Support to County decentralized Health & Social Welfare Services IFB No: LCPS/NCB/001
1. This Invitation for Bids follows the General Procurement Notice for this Project that appeared online in Development Business of January 6, 2013. 2. The Liberia College of Physicians & Surgeons (LCPS) has received Financing from the Government of Liberia to expand support to strengthen the health care delivery system and it intends to apply part of the proceeds of this financing to payments under this Contract. Bidding will be governed by the Public Procurement & Concession Art (PCCA) of Liberia. 3. The Liberia college of Physicians and Surgeons now invites sealed bids from eligible and qualified bidders for the Supply of Vehicles under the following Lots:
Lot Description 1 2

Water Supply/Construction Site Engineer For USAID/LIBERIA MUNICIPAL WATER PROJECT (LMWP) LMWP/LWSC is soliciting suitably qualified engineers with experience in urban water supply designs and constructions, to provide specialized technical input to the rehabilitation and/or construction of water infrastructure improvements for the various urban water supply systems in each of the three Cities. BACKGROUND The Liberia Municipal Water Project (LMWP), funded by the USAID, is supporting the design, tendering execution and operation of water supply infrastructure improvements in the secondary cities of Robertsport, Sanniquelleh and Voinjama. This Project is working to assist local and national authorities in developing plans for urban water supply improvements, implementing water supply infrastructure improvements capital works in the three(3) cities. After four years, over 90% of the population in each city will have improved water access, and improved infrastructure will be handed over to locally-based management entities capable of financially and technically sustaining water supply in the three cities. This advert seeks a Water Supply/Construction Site Engineer in Sanniquelle and Voinjama The works will be implemented in a partnership with the LWSC, the State Government Authorities, who has the mandate to operate and maintain the Water improvement infrastructure projects. LMWP is responsible for the design, tendering, contract administration and the construction supervision of the various engineering works and, and reestablishing local capability to sustainably operate and maintain water supply systems defined under the Project Plan. The incumbent will be seconded to the LWSC to strengthen its capacity in construction over-sight. REPORTING The incumbent will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager (LMWP/LWSC Project), with secondary reporting commitment to the LMWP Water Supply Engineer (WSE) or designee. PURPOSE OF THE POSITION The Water Supply/Construction Site Engineer, under the supervision of the Project Manager (LMWP/LWSC Project) is responsible for all the tasks associated with the construction of water supply improvement works, ensuring successful and timely project delivery. The Water Engineer/Construction, in collaboration with the LMWP Staff Engineers, will be responsible for the overall design and construction supervision of the appropriate water supply improvement infrastructures in the City. He/she serves as coordinator and liaison with other partners in the sector, including the Government representatives. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS (Duties and Responsibilities) The incumbent of post will be responsible for the following specific tasks: Check and verify works quantities and quality submitted by the Contractors for the claims, review requests for variation orders and make recommendations in collaboration with the LMWP staff engineer for actions Prepare contractual letter with reference to the Project General Condition of Contract in order to address contractors issues / claims and time extension, as well as completion certificates Manage and guide staff / Contractor in all related activities in the implementation of the construction works. Provide support, through guidance and organization as well as supervision to the field teams/Contractors to promote quality in project deliverables. Represent the LWSC/LMWP and collaborate, plan and liaise with key local government officials and community members in the implementation of project activities. Manage water supply improvements, and associated construction projects. Responsible for monitoring and documenting achievement of project outputs and objectives, ensuring the quality and timely achievement of program objectives. Prepare and submit timely internal project reports on field activities, detailing the progress and achievement of project outputs and objectives, the challenges faced and how they were tackled and recommendations for subsequent phases. Under the direction of the Project Manager (LMWP/LWSC Project), independently conduct detailed engineering field works and design activities in compliance with project designs acceptable to LWSC, USAID/LMWP (Tetratech), and the local engineering designs standards and norms; Ensure compliance with project designs acceptable to LWSC and Tetra Tech quality standards; Collaborate with other Engineering Design/construction Team members; Contribute to project reports as needed; Assume any other duties as may be assigned by the PM. QUALIFICATIONS AND PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE A Bachelors degree in civil engineering, preferably in water engineering Minimum 5 years of relevant progressively responsible professional work experience in related field experience including 3 years of wide-ranging experience in design of urban water supply schemes, project management, monitoring and evaluation, and 2 years of construction supervision experience in urban water supply schemes rehabilitation or constructions is essential. Demonstrated ability to work in an a multi-cultural environment and establish harmonious and effective working relationships, both within and outside the organization; Computer skills, including internet navigation and various office applications. Fluency in English, knowledge of the local working language of the duty station is an asset. COMPETENCY / ABILITIES Good supervisory and managerial skills; co-ordinates group activities; Highly knowledgeable in appropriate construction administration systems and procedures, in particular control of works and financial management Strong analytical, problem solving and decision making skills Sets high standards for quality of work and consistently achieves project goals Ability to understand and respect the cultural, religious and political environment and to work well with staff and local authorities in a diplomatic manner Able to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment; Good skills interpreting blue prints; and translating strategic direction into plans and objectives; Ability to work in partnership with local communities Background/training in behavioral change Communities is a plus Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Empathy to Organizations goals and objectives HOW TO APPLY Interested and qualified candidates are asked to send their current curriculum vitae (CV), 3 references, and a brief cover letter explaining why they are qualified for the position to: The Administrative/Human Resources Manager, USAID/Liberia Municipal Water Project, 19th Street and Payne Avenue, Sinkor, Monrovia, Liberia or email to jharris@tetratech-lmwp.com Subject of the email should read Water Supply/Construction Site Engineer. Short-listed candidates will be contacted for interview Selected candidates will be hired as soon as they are available Compensation will be commensurate with relevant experience Tetra Tech is committed to diversity and gender equality in all of its operations. We encourage applications from women and underrepresented groups. Tetra Tech ARD is proud to be an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer. Deadline for submission of applications is: February 10, 2014 at 4:00 PM

Contracts will be awarded on Lot basis Delivery is expected within 12 weeks to the Liberia College of Physicians & Surgeons (LCPS). 4. Bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding (NCB) procedures specified in the Public Procurement & Concessions Act (PPCA) open to all bidders from Eligible Source Countries as defined in the Guidelines. 5. Qualifications requirements include: i) Working capital/liquidity to be able to execute the contract ii) At least three contracts of similar nature completed within the last five years. iii) Availability in Liberia of spare parts and after sales services. No margin of preference for goods manufactured domestically shall be applied. Additional details are provided in the Bidding Documents. 6. Interested eligible bidders may obtain further information from the LCPS and inspect the Bidding Documents at the address given below between 9:00am to 5:00pm on business days from 6 January 2013. 7. A complete set of Bidding Documents in English may be purchased by interested bidders on the submission of a Written Application to the address below and upon payment of a non-refundable fee of One Hundred United States Dollars (USD 100.00). The method of payment will be bankers draft or wire transfer. Banking details will be provided upon request. The Bidding Documents will be provided in hard copy. 8. Bids must be delivered to the address at or before 6 February, 2013. Electronic bidding will not be permitted. Late bids will be rejected. Bids will be opened in the presence of the bidders representatives who choose to attend in person at the address below on 6 February, 2013 at 11:00 hours GMT. All bids must be accompanied by a Bid Security of 2% of bid price or an equivalent amount in a freely convertible currency. 9. The addresses referred to above are: For obtaining information and bid submission: The Finance Manager Liberia College of Physicians & Surgeons (LCPS) Old Health Ministry, Capitol Bye-Pass Monrovia, Liberia For Bid Opening: Liberia College of Physicians & Surgeons (LCPS) Conference Room Old Health Ministry, Capitol Bye-Pass Monrovia, Liberia

Double Cabin Pickup Vehicles (4x4) Mini Van/Bus

Qty Unit Bid Security Amount 1 Ea 2% of Bid Price 1 Ea

DAILY OBSERVER

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Profile of Senator Taylor

enator Chief Nye Suacoco Jewel Howard Taylor represents Bong County in the first senatorial category and was elected to serve that position in 2005. Senator Taylor and started work January 2006 on the National Patriotic Party (NPP) ticket. Her tenure expires on the second working Monday in January 2015. Senator Taylor is an Economist by profession. She is also an Administrator, a Lawyer and a Social Worker. She was born into the royal household of the distinguished Kingdom of King Kerkula Giddings of Sanoyea District, of the then Central Province, now a part of Bong County, Republic of Liberia. Nene, as she is called by some of her peers in her county, was raised along with her siblings, on the Phebe Hospital compound by parents, the late Mr. Moses Y. Howard and his late wife Nora Mammie Howard. Both Mr and Mrs. Howard were two of the first medical personnel trained by the Lutheran Church in Liberia, and there after posted to serve at Phebe Hospital, when it was opened in Suacoco, Bong County. Her parents were transferred to the John F. Kennedy Medical Centre in Monrovia to be a part of the first group of trained Liberian professional medical assigned at the newly built JFK in 1960s. The Moses Y. Howard family, even though resident in Monrovia, maintained their strong ties to Bong County by helping in medical facilities in the region during weekends and maintaining a 600-acre of farm land in Sanoyea District. Sadly, Mr. Howard was murdered at the Phebe Hospital in September 1994. His remains are buried in a Memorial Park at Phebe, a similar location where his wife Nora was interred following her death on August 27, 2010. Educational Background Elementary: St. Peters Lutheran School Jr. High: Lutheran Training Institute High School: College of West Africa Undergraduate: University of Liberia

Pictorial on the Grand Final of Inspector General of Police Hon. C. Clarence Massaquois Annual Peace and Unity Three Days Tournament, Held on Monday February 3, 2014 at the Barrack Young Controller (BYC) Sports Ground in Monrovia

Page 10 8

Senator Taylor

Undergraduate: American Senator Taylor in conversaInstitute of Banking-Honours tion with Speaker Alex Tyler Legislature allocation, CounGraduate Post Graduate: American In- ty Development Funds, Education, and Health Road network stitute of Banking (MA) Cuttington University Col- to Bong County under the watch of Senator Taylor lege (MSc) Louis Arthur Grimes School Oversight of Law (LLB) As part of her oversight reWork Experience (Public and sponsibilities Senator TayPrivate) lor has over the past 8 years Former President, Agriculworked and accomplished tural Cooperative Developthe following: Increase in ment Bank, Monrovia, Liberia. the National Budget from Former Deputy Governor, US$129,917,259 in 2006 to National Bank of Liberia. ForUS$582,931,413 in 2013 mer First Lady Republic of Approval of fiscal regime Liberia that allowed Liberia to be Senior Senator, Bong County, debt-free, approval of the Founder & Patron of the Mayo new regulation that created Starfish Foundation - aimed at the Revenue Authority, and providing educational opportuthe joint Ministry of Finance & nities to girls in Bong County Economic Planning; approval and elsewhere. This has trained by the Senate of Presidential over 500 young girls in 10 year. appointees across the nation, Committees: Chair Aubudget hearings and oversight tonomous Commissions and of key institutions includAgencies, Member Judiciary; ing, National Elections ComWays, Means, Finance & Budmission, LACE, Governance get; Gender, Health, Social Commission, General Services Welfare, Women & Children Agency and LRRRC etc. Affairs; Education & Public Senator Taylor has won many Administration; Joint Legislaawards prominent amongst tive Modernization them are; Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Presidential RecogniAreas of Impact at the Sention Award for Humanitarian ate Law making: She has crafted, Services for contribution to sponsored and co-sponsored Youth Development in Libemore than 35 bills in the Liberi- ria from the AAW Peace 2011, an Senate, prominent amongst Chieftaincy Title conferred on them are: The Acts to establish her by Chiefs and Elders of the Law Reform Commission, Bong County in 2011. Two Anti-Corruption Commission, times winner, National ExcelInformation Commission and lence Award in 2009 and 2011 and Excellence Award for Adthe Governance Commission vocacy for Rights of Women, The Act to establish the position of Assistance Superin- AWLO, 2012. tendent for Fiscal & Financial Management, within the Ministry of Internal Affairs; and the Act to establish the E. J. Yancy, Gboveh Multilateral High School System. Democracy Sustenance Fund; the Beletanda Magisterial Court; the Act providing for Mandatory Payment by Concessions to the University of Liberia; the Act establishing the Mineral Development Agreement (MDA) for China Union; BHP Billiton; ArcelorMittal. The Whistle Blower Protection Law; Code of Conduct; Amending the Penal Law Relating to the Jurisdiction of the Magistrates and Magisterial Courts; the Freedom of Information Act; Childrens Rights Bill, Public Service Trust Act, Bong County Technical College, Providing for the Amendments to Elections Law, Corruption Offenses Act and the National Traditional Council. Representation 2006/2007 US$1,570,632.40 2007/08 US$2,312,845.30 2010/11 US$3,438,333.00 2012/13 US$7,356,070.00 and 2013/14 US$9,024,954.84 as budgetary achieved to Bong County Contribution to Transformation in Bong Sponsor of the Educational Boards, Lobbied to increase funding to University of Liberia, Cuttington University, Booker T. Washington Institute and Multilateral High School across the Liberia and Bong County Technical College, initiated and sponsored funding for Madam Suacoco Scholarship that has benefited more than 2000 Bong students. Lobbied for micro credit funding for over 100 women groups throughout Bong County to a tune of LD$20 million for empowerment of Liberian Rural Women. Dreams and Aspirations Senator Taylor dreams of providing affordable electricity to towns, villages and homes couple with pipe born water and a rehabilitated Capital City of Gbarnga. She also hoped to achieve an agenda that would provide new housing units with improved local materials and open sustainable economic and development options in food processing, agro business and tourism amongst other.

IG Massaquoi flanked by his two deputies to receive the best security Award, presented to him by the Evidence Newspaper

IG and Distrcit #17 Rep. Willima Dakel celebrateing with the winning team (Public Safety Division)

IG Massaquoi congratulates the winning team, Public Safety Division

District #17 Rep. William Dakel making remarks at the ceremony after presentation of the trophy

LNP Training Commandant Atty. Samuel Dakana making remarks at the final while IG Massaquoi looks on

LNP Inspector General Takes Kickoff at the grand final

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 DAILY OBSERVER Wednesday, February 05, 2014 Wednesday, February 5, 2014

Page 10d Page 9

Ellen Hails Liberian Businessman D

Businessman Fomba Trawally and his tissue products.

elivering her state-of the nation address on January 27, 2014 at the Capitol Building, President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf lauded the proprietor of National Toiletry Incorporated (NTI), Mr.

By David A.Yates

business venture in the country. Mr. Trawallys company Kumba, Bendu & Sons, manufactures paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, diapers, and cleaning products. The company, which started production a little over a year ago, has 45

ers and those in the audience to recognize and appreciate the NTI boss which she referred to as an enterprising Liberian for his achievements. We applaud another successful Liberian businessman who CNN has recognized as the street vendor who turned US$200 into

Flashback: Fomba in discussion with President Sirleaf

Fomba Trawally, for what she termed as his steadfastness and unique entrepreneurial skills. Mr. Trawally has become renowned as a street vendor who turned US$200 into a multi-million-dollar

employees--- 32 of them being women -- and it is located in Whein Town, Montserrado County. Addressing the joint session of the 53rd National Legislature, President Sirleaf called on lawmak-

a potential multi-milliondollar business. His name is Mr. Fomba Trawally, founder and owner of National Toiletries Inc, the President said. The Liberian leader also said the Ministry of Com-

merce is exploring ways to address the growing trade deficit and the difficult situation faced by consumers experiencing the negative consequences of exchange rate depreciation. The Liberian leader reported the fastest growing sectors are dominated by micro, small and mediumsized businesses located in the service and industrial sectors. These businesses are producing beverages, vegetable oil, flour, plastic products, agricultural goods and cement. President Sirleaf further explained that efforts are under way to formulate policies and systems that protect consumers from arbitrary price increases and poor quality goods. She said the government has provided multiple opportunities to bring business to local SMEs, totaling over US$400,000 in the last year. Madam Sirleaf concluded by revealing measures are underway to impose a oneyear transitional period restricting foreigners to wholesaling and providing retailing opportunities for Liberians.

HL, the world leader in international express delivery, has reinforced its claim to be The International Specialists with external recognition in all continents in 2013 across a broad range of functional disciplines. The latest recognition, the Frost & Sullivan award for Market Penetration in Sub-Saharan Africa brings the total number of external honors won by DHL Express since January 2013 to over 20. Of these, awards have been won across numerous functions from superior customer service, great operational quality to our marketing efforts and social impact in local communities. I love my people and the great work that they do. These awards are a testimony to their passion, speed, can-do attitude and team-work, said Charles Brewer, Managing Director for DHL Express SubSaharan Africa. An award in Mozambique, Uganda or Gabon is not just significant for that particular market. We hope that this sends out a message to our customers about our commitment to Africa and the service excellence that we have built over the last 35 years. Brewer also stated: We have 3,500 amazing people who put the customer in the center of their world and this is a great recognition for their efforts When researching the logistics and Express sector, it was obvious that DHL was making major progress in Africa, through its aggressive expansion programme, comments Frost & Sullivan Business Unit Leader for Energy & Environment, Cornelis van der Waal, who awarded DHL for its expansion programme in Africa. Their foray into the informal retail market, and their partnership with postal operators has seen them more than quadruple their retail outlets across the continent in just a few months. It was an impressive story, and one that

DHLs Focus on Africa Pays Off

Managing Director Charles Brewer needed to be recognised.

And their key to success? We have gone from 300 to over 2,000 retail points because our customers asked us to. We are lucky that we have people who put the customer in the heart of everything they do and when you combine the attitude of our people with the skills they learn from our global Certified International Specialist program (CIS), it creates a winner. said Sumesh Rahavendra, Head of Marketing for DHL Express Sub-Saharan Africa. Adding to these comments, the Country Manager of DHL Liberia, Mr. Akwasi Aninakwah emphasized that over the last two years, DHL Liberia have been able to create 10 retail outlets. This opportunity has made it possible for our customers to reach us even in the remote urban areas and avoid the hassle of traffic, he concluded. DHL is the global market leader in the logistics industry and The Logistics company for the world. DHL commits its expertise in international express, air and ocean freight, road and rail transportation, contract logistics and international mail services to its customers. A global network composed of more than 220 countries and territories and about 285,000 employees worldwide offers customers superior service quality and local knowledge to satisfy their supply chain requirements. DHL accepts its social responsibility by supporting environmental protection, disaster management and education.

DAILY OBSERVER Wednesday, February 5, 2014

of Liberian parentage who wish to contribute fully to the development of this country as citizens. The grant of Liberian citizenship would enable us to draw on the wealth of financial, technical and other resources available to that category of persons that could be deployed nationally, she asserted. The Liberian Senate currently has a proposed dual citizenship legislation before it. Many senators interviewed by the Daily Observer expressed support for the bill, arguing that instituting such measure will increase diaspora Liberians participation in the nations economy. Senators Cletus Wotorson, Jewel Howard Taylor, Joseph Nagbe, Abel Massaley, Thomas Grupee and Frederick Cherue all expressed support for legalizing said instrument. Senators Grupee and Massaley in particular said they believed that the time has come for all Liberians to accept their fellow brothers and sisters who acquired second citizenship from elsewhere but want to maintain their original Liberian citizenship. If you leave this country and went to England; while there something goes wrong. You will be scrapped of the rights you enjoy at that moment and deported to your home country. This tells you that a citizenship you obtained by naturalization is temporary, and the only citizenship that matters is the one by birth, Senator Grupee explained. The argument raised by some Liberians in many quarters indicating that legalizing dual citizenship would be at the disadvantage of state and large portion of the population is lazy, he asserted. Senator Grupee, a partisan of the National Union for Democratic Progress (NUDP) hailing from Nimba County, added that Liberians should be receptive of their brothers and sisters who left the country to seek refuge in other countries, and because of circumstances, took up citizenship in those areas but still want to maintain their original status as Liberians. I strongly support the bill and believe that the bill is very good for our country, he said. The problem right now is lack of education on the bill. Most of our people dont have knowledge of the proposed legislation and there is a need to have more awareness on the matter. For his part, Grand Cape Mount County Senator Abel Massaley described the bill as critical but cardinal to the long-term developmental process of the country. He asserted that affording diaspora Liberians the opportunity to feel a part of their homeland is very important

Dual Citizenship

Page 10
Universal Human Rights International (UHRI), a Boston-based organization, further stated, however, that Liberians in the Diaspora must put their money where their mouths are. The advocacy in the Diaspora community is all talk and little action. Diaspora Liberians wont even pay money for their own green cards. I wont pay a dime for green card Krua quoted Liberians as saying. When they get it, we will get it. Buttressing the argument proffered by those lawmakers who view a dual citizenship legislation as premature, Krua stated that the legislators are serving the citizens, who are the voters. They must therefore listen to the voters and take orders from their constituents. He agreed with those calling for more donated his estate to educate all Liberian children. Robtel N. Pailey, a Liberian writer and doctoral candidate in Development Studies at the University of Londons School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), agrees. Paileys research focuses on the factors that have influenced the introduction and postponement in the passage of the proposed dual citizenship legislation for Liberia. There are a number of major gaps in the last copy of the proposed dual citizenship bill that I saw, so Im not convinced its ready for Legislative consideration just yet, she explained. For instance, the proposed bill has no stipulations on the responsibilities or rights of would-be dual citizens, such as paying taxes, abiding by state laws, running for high political of-

to the countrys reconciliation drive. The Cape Mount Senator was quick to declare that most senators support the idea, but nobody wants to sponsor it, I mean to serve as frontrunner of the proposed legislation like it is being done with other legislations. Other lawmakers, however, have said that the dual citizenship discussion is not a national or legislative priority at the present time. They, along with other Liberians against the urgent passage of the bill, argue that Liberia has more pressing issues to be discussed than dual citizenship. The question has often been asked rhetorically: How many Liberians returning home are looked upon as foreigners? One political commentator, Mr. Abraham D. Dillon, told the Observer that dual citizenship is not a priority item for Liberia right now. Dillon, who is also a Senior Policy Advisor in one of Liberias opposition political parties (Liberty Party), stated that before one starts to talk about dual citizenship, one should look at the cause(s) of it. Have you ever heard of Liberians wanting to become citizens of Guinea, Sierra Leone or Central African Republic as it is with Western

Senator Thomas Grupee

Liberian Government can make opportunities such as access to student loans, better retirement packages and better jobs available to every Liberian, good healthcare, few Liberians would willingly become citizens of another nation. He also argued, however, that most of Liberias insurrections have always begun with these diaspora Liberians, who when the fire starts to burn, are directly evacuated by those countries of their second choice, leaving behind ordinary Liberians, who have had no say when they (diaspora Liberians) planned to destroy their own nation. ident Joseph Boakai in Syndey. They asked that they be given the opportunity to reclaim their status in the country of their birth as a means of fostering development at home. Justin K. Koholo, considered an elder by the Liberian Community in Sydney, noted that those with dual citizenship have the potential to transform the country but cannot do so with the current limitations regarding their citizenship status. Im a born Liberian, [as are] my children. We sometimes encounter problems with Liberian immigration when we travel [because of] the passports we carry. Im just a citizen by paper in Australia, but I consider Liberia my own birth place, Mr. Koholo declared. The Vice President, in response, applauded the Australia-based Liberians for remittances sent back home to family members but encouraged them to return. I know its difficult working here and taking care of family in Liberia. However, in the midst of all that, you are trying to contribute to our economy. I urge you to take interest in coming back home and contributing more to the society as Liberia needs all of us right now, Boakai said. US-based Liberians Weigh in Liberians based in the United States have also reacted to President Sirleafs statement. Mr. Torli H. Krua, founder YOUNG-Africa Inc., told the Observer that he is not convinced by the Presidents arguments. The government needs to do more. For example, the President needs to take the first bold step by granting visa waivers to members of the Liberian Diaspora, welcoming them to return, explore and serve. This action does not require legislation. Already, all citizens of ECOWAS states do not need a visa to enter Liberia. The government needs to lead in order for the legislators and voters to follow. Krua, also the founder of

Grand Cape Mount County Senator Abel Massaley

public education in such matters as a first step. While I have no evidence that dual citizenship can develop a country, Krua added, it is a proven fact that ideas and innovation are fuels that drive the economies of industrialized and developed countries worldwide. In Liberia, our orientation, education and training are primarily political and bankrupt of new ideas and innovation. If bringing folks from overseas can transform the Liberian economy, then we already have what we desire. Not much has changed in Liberia because the mentality of Liberians by and large, whether in the Diaspora or at home, is driven by politics and self-interest. We need a new training and orientation that elevate striving for the common good, public service, patriotism and entrepreneurship. Joseph Jenkins Roberts created a model that we need to follow. While others deposit money earned in Africa in banks in Europe and America and are only concerned about enriching their children and friends, Roberts fice, voting in national elections, or owning land. Im also concerned about leaving such a contentious issue to a legislative vote. Since the proposed bill is essentially a constitutional issue, it should go to a referendum, allowing the Liberian people to decide, just like we did in 2011 for the 10-year residency clause, amongst other issues. I would hazard to guess, she added, that the vast majority of Liberia-based Liberians are less concerned about dual citizenship and more concerned about realizing the full potential of their own citizenship rights, like the right to a living wage; the right to transitional justice; the right to quality education; the right to derive meaningful benefits from natural resource extraction; the right to adequate health care; the right to electricity, clean water, and sanitation. When these issues are resolved fully, then perhaps well be able to adequately address dual citizenship. With an assist from Alaskai Moore Johnson

Dillon: Dual citizenship is not a priority for Liberia right now

nations? I am not saying you wont find one or two Liberians who would want to become citizens of those nations; but majority would prefer being citizens of the West because the opportunities provided by Western nations are not provided here in Liberia, he explained. He emphasized that if the Liberians in Australia want Dual Citizenship Meanwhile, Liberians residing in Australia want Monrovia to pass the legislation legalizing dual citizenship under the countrys nationality system. In May 2013, our reporter attended a meeting in which the Liberian Community in Australia met with Vice Pres-

Tuesday, January 28, 2014 DAILY OBSERVER Tuesday, February 04, Wednesday, February 5, 2014 2014

Page 10d Page 11

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

in Commemorative President Sirleaf Cannot Ignore Lone Star BilityPhoto with FIFA
--Afcon 2015 Pairings on April 27, 2014

Read more sports articles on the Daily Observer website @ www.liberianobserver.com/sports

President

The George Weah X1 and the most recent Lone Star and sports role in development cannot be over-emphasized.

By Omari Jackson

he CAF Orange African Nations ended last Saturday in South Africa with Libya defeating the Black Stars of Ghana for the title. In that tournament, Liberias Lone Star could not qualify. Though the Orange Nations Cup is meant for players who have not gone abroad, Liberia could not raise and prepared quality players for the tournament. The finals of the next Orange Nations Cup tournament will be held in Morocco, from Jan. 17 to Feb. 7, 2015. The tournament will be held in four cities: Rabat, Agadir, Tanger and Marrakech. The draw for the preliminary and qualifying rounds will be announced on April 27, 2014 in Cairo, Egypt. There will be 7 Groups of 4 teams each with the two top teams moving on for the finals in Morocco. Will Liberia be among the

contestants in Morocco? But before that I think the appropriate question is: will Liberia participate in the preliminary rounds? Information from the LFA indicates that it is no longer interested to canvass for funds to develop the national team. The LFA cannot afford to raise money outside of the Government of Liberia to support the national team, a source at the LFA told the Daily Observer. The Observer also learned, FA president Musa Bility has made it clear that his administration is now interested in the U17 and the U20 national teams. If the Government of Liberia cannot invest in the national team, then so be it, another source informed the Daily Observer. That the Government of Liberia is not interested in the national team, Lone Star, was by implication made clear, when President Ellen Johnson

Sirleaf made her report to the nation. What did she say about the national team? asked an LFA official, who asked for anonymity because he was not asked to speak for the association, President Sirleaf said nothing about Lone Star. And perhaps that settles the matter. In the governments Transformation Agenda, unity through sports is a principle and it appears government can achieve that through the annual County Sports Meet and not through Liberias participation in matches organized by CAF and FIFA. The Government of Liberia has a budget of USD500, 000.00 for the national team. That amount cannot provide the necessary support in cash and in kind for the national team. As a result, on numerous occasions, Lone Stars preparations were delayed and the results have been disappointing. trict 17 presented the awards to the winners, and reminded the officers about the objective of the tournament, which he said was to improve their relations with the various communities. He, meanwhile, made a USD100 cash contribution to the runners-up, Public Safety,

In the last three and half years, besides the USD500, 000.00, the LFA has been able to find additional support from its agreement with Cellcom GSM. We can better utilize that money for the U17 and U20 teams where we think we can make better representation, the official said. Correspondingly, as countries in the sub-region made huge investments in developing sportsmen and women, Liberia stands alone unable to make such an investment. What is also surprising is that many who have stakes in the Lone Stars fortunes are not making noise about the governments lack of interest in the teams development. Perhaps President Sirleaf has forgotten so quickly her promise to ensure that Liberian youths develop to achieve higher athletic excellence, ready to take on their counterparts in the sub-region and the world with honor. that is located in his district. There were 16 teams that participated in the tournament; they included Police Zones 1 to 9, Traffic, Administration, ERU, PSU, Patrol, and CSD. Each of the rest of the zonal participants received a set of jersey and one football.

From L-R: South Africa Executive Committee Member and its FA President Dr. Danny Jordan, FIFA President Joseph Sepp Blatter, Namibia FA President John Muinjo and LFA President M. Hassan A. Bility in a commemorative photo in Johannesburg, South Africa at the end of the CHAN 2014, which Libya won, after defeating Ghana 4-3 on penalties, last week.

Doris Williams VIP Stand Needs Facelift

VIPs were embarrassed standing to see from all angles on the Doris Williams Stadium

Police Public Safety Captures Massaquoi Peace & Unity Tourney

By Leroy M. Sonpon, III

Police Director Chris Massaquoi takes the kick-off at the grand final
by hundreds of police officers and civilians. The champions received a cash award of Ld25, 000.00, a trophy, a set of jersey and a football. The runners-up, Zone 6 received Ld10, 000.00, a trophy, a set of jersey and a football. Rep. William Dakel of Dis-

he annual one-day C. Clarence Massaquoi Peace and Unity soccer tournament ended last Monday at the BYC sports field in Monrovia with Police Public Safety defeating Zone 6, 4-3 in penalties. It was a super final that saw exciting soccer action watched

r. Amos Korvah, the acting president of the Liberia National Table Tennis Association (LNTTA) won its last Saturdays presidential elections, beating Aaron Nawuoh, 44-8 votes. Mr. Korvah served as vice president under the late Lord Brownell, and began acting as president since 2012. The election put to rest his stand-in leadership and agitation from a handful of members about the lack of financial reports which led to the postponement of election twice in 2013.

Korvah Wins LNTTA Elections

Mr. Wennie Klimeth won the vice presidency, beating Narnue Davis 23-19 votes with Celestine King, receiving 10 votes. Secretary General Lamin Freeman was unopposed. The Assistant Secretary General position went to Gregory Ebulue and Anita Williams got the Financial Secretary position. The president in consultation with the Executive Committee will appoint the Chaplain and Treasurer. Meanwhile, president-elect Korvah said his leadership will amend the constitution regarding their tenure, from two (2) to four (4) years in accordance

cores of Bassanonians have expressed frustration over the shoddy construction of the VIP Stand at the Doris Williams Sports Stadium in Buchanan, Grand Bassa County and have called for its restructuring. The VIP Stand was built like a houses porch with large parallel irons, while the right-side had building blocks, indicating that those at the back seats would not see the other side of the pitch and those at the front not see clearly because of the thick and large irons which are installed horizontally. Sources said the construction fees were taken from the County Development Fund (CDF). The president of the Liberia Old-timer National Associa-

tion (LONA) and astute football stakeholder, Cllr. T.C. Gould said the VIP Stand is shameful, and needs adjustment. Former Barrolle President Garmondeh Karnga and the president of Sinkor Oldtimer Association Paul Romeo Davis urged the County Administration to breakdown the building blocks on the other side of the witness stand and remove the thick and large irons and beautify the VIP Stand. Karnga said: The rebuilding of the VIP Stand will smarten the field and make it look like a stadium, so we urged the administration. For his part, Mr. Davis urged for the administration to rebuild the VIP Stand and said the County Authority must take responsibility for the rebuilding. take table tennis to schools and communities as way of decentralizing the game. We are planning a colorful installation program and we hope to invite every stakeholder, including President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and the Chinese Ambassador, Korvah said.

with the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Statutes. He said his administration will also strive to foster peace and unity amongst the 52 members, complete the renovation of their headquarters at the Sports Commission on Broad Street and continue to

Fo r ad qu ve ick rt ise bu in sine th ss is re sp su ac lts e ,

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MOF Hopes Dashed in US$19M Tax-Evasion Case

By Abednego Davis
to serve its amendment pleadings upon the opposing party prior to 24 hours of the hearing of the motion under the law. However, delivering the Courts ruling on Tuesday, February 4, Judge Chesson declared that since this wrought no harm to the substantial rights of LCC, the motion is hereby denied. He further ruled that the Court denies the motion to dismiss filed by both the Board of Tax Appeal (BOTA) and the Ministry of Finance (MOF). And it is so ordered. Judge Chesson said the Court concedes the point by Lonestar, but with disregard to same as harmless error under the law, as the court instruction could have contributed to the Ministry not adhering strictly to the provision of the CPLR, Section 9.10. The Court also considered as harmless error, the Ministrys serving of the motion on LCC in delay of one hour and 35 minutes. The case began in November 2012, after MOF conducted an audit of Lonestars tax return, indicating it must pay US$749,853.42, of which 53% of that amount was for turnover taxes, 5% in Goods and Services (GST) taxes and the bulk of the difference for penalty and interest. The request, the management of LCC fully cooperated and accepted the report and requested a 60% waiver of the interest and penalty be granted. They on November 26, 2012, paid into government revenue the amount of US$597,988.38, benefiting from a waiver of US$75,932.52 in penalty and US$75,932.52 in interest. After paying that amount, MOF cleared the company for the taxable period 2007 to 2011 in accordance with the Revenue

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request opposing the Ministry of Finances (MOF) plan to impose US$19,197,903 .44 as additional taxes against Lonestar Communication Corporation, (LCC) was on Monday, February 3, granted by Judge Mozart Chesson of the Tax Court, at the Temple of Justice. Lonestar had complained to the court, praying for a Judicial Review of the ruling of the Board of Tax Appeal (BOTA) ruling against it in the US$19,197,903.44 tax evasion sued for by the Ministry of Finance (MOF). In counteraction, BOTA and MOF filed two separate motions, one to dismiss the appeal. They argued in the second motion that Lonestar had failed

Finance Ministry on Broad Street

Code of Liberia. However, between November 11, through November 30, 2013, MOF informed LCC that it was in possession of new evidence that raised the need for another assessment of its books and records for the same period. They claimed that they had discovered through a forensic investigation, documents showing dubious business accountning of February, Police spokesperson Sam Collins could not confirm whether authorities had instructed that additional checkpoints besides the existing ones including Salala, Gbarnga Main gate and Ganta , be erected. Mr. Collins said he would contact the Chief of Operations to react to the issue. As a result of the 2012 strike action, government had stepped in and dissolved the numerous checkpoints along highways

ing that had defraud government of a substantial amount, to the tune of US$19,197,903 .44. LCC categorically denied any fraudulent activities and requested the opportunity to review the report of the alleged forensic investigation. LCC further argued that, because it had been cleared under the Revenue Code of Liberia Act of 2000, it would not allow the ministry to make an additional assessment or an additional re-assessment of that taxable period. Lonestar later reported the matter to the Board of Tax Appeal. Unfortunately, that Board denied Lonestars complaint, which caused the company to file a Motion for a Judicial Review of the two rulings of the two government institutions.

Dissolved Checkpoints Back in Business

By Joaquin Sendolo

here is a high probability that commercial drivers might soon take it upon themselves to halt for a day or more, transport activities that expose them to extortion by unscrupulous (corrupt, dishonest) law enforcement or government security officers. What might soon begin to snowball (increase, swell) brings back memories of a strike action that commercial drivers organized for a day in April of 2012, against acts of extortion by Police and Immigration officers assigned at various checkpoints along highways in the country who were extorting money from them. A trip made by the Daily Observer to Nimba last weekend confirmed that the Mount Barclay Checkpoint, the Careysburg Checkpoint, and the 15th Gate Checkpoints have resurfaced, and a new checkpoint has

been erected along the highway, near the Gbarnga Police Station. Vehicles with plates bearing PC or BC or other plates freely cross without being checked and without having to pay money; all commercial vehicles, on the other hand, are parked and their drivers required to drop L$25 or more, to get beyond the checkpoint. At all checkpoints, the vehicle our reporter was on was parked along with other commercial vehicles that arrived ahead of theirs as well as those that followed; without fail, each commercial driver were asked to pay a toll. Although it has become customary that at any legal checkpoint commercial drivers pay money to police, the taxi-driver whose vehicle drove our reporter to Ganta on the night of January 31, recalled that the same harassment that once sparked a strike, had come back to create problems for commuters. These rogues have come again to be taking money from

us, and this is what you passengers dont know when we are charging you. The gasoline price, the police, and immigration all share in the money we earn. That makes it necessary for us to hike the fare to what you people have to pay. You see now, no war or any confusion in the country, but many gates are on this road and any checkpoint we stop at, we have got to pay something, the taxi-driver complained. The commercial driver said parking their vehicles is not meant to check for anything illegal; it is simply to get money from them. It would have been fair if all vehicles were parked and checked as is done to commercial drivers. Why should we be the only drivers suspected of bringing drugs or foreigners illegally entering the country? he asked. Look at what happened when a Presidential-convoy-vehicle was caught with drugs as was reported a few months ago. Was

that a commercial vehicle? Our reporter said on his way back early Monday morning from Ganta as rode in a private Jeep, all those checkpoints that were extorting money from those poor commercial drives, were quickly opened for their vehicle to go through. When contacted at the begin-

with specific reference to the Monrovia-Ganta Highway that vehicles regularly ply. The only checkpoints that remained were the original ones including the Salala checkpoint, Gbarnga, and Ganta Immigration checkpoint. With no information of security threat or other issue of concern, those dissolved checkpoints have reemerged and drivers are again beginning to complain about the harassment.

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Published by the Liberian Observer Corporation (LOC), 23 McDonald Street, P.O. Box 1858, Monrovia, Liberia; Tel: 06 812-888; 06 578476; and 06 472772; Printed by the Observer Printing Press; Bai S. Best, Marketing Manager; Lindiw Khumalo Yasiah, Business Strategist; Publisher & Managing Director, Kenneth Y. Best.

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