Paynesville– The former Deputy Minister for Economic Management at the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, Augustine Flomo, has launched Gusceman Business Development and Support Services, an initiative aimed at promoting digital transformation, trade innovation, and small and medium enterprise (SME) development in Liberia.
By J.H. Webster Clayeh, websterclayeh@frontpageafricaonline.com
The launch event, held in Paynesville, brought together several prominent figures from both the public and private sectors.
The initiative features several programs, including: Smart Entrepreneurship and Digital Education Program and also Africa Market for Trade Technology Ecosystem, Flomo’s Vision for Digital Transformation.
Addressing the gathering, Flomo revealed that the vision for the initiative dates back to 2008 and became operational in 2016.
“In 2016, we put it into operation. We set up our office on 15th Street. Since then, Gusceman has been on its feet,” he said.
He emphasized the urgency of embracing digital transformation, noting that traditional systems are rapidly being replaced by modern technologies.
Flomo also shared a personal story about returning to school to acquire digital skills, despite skepticism from his children.
“At that time, my kids did not see much in what I was doing. Now, we are trying to push digital change in Liberia,” he added.
Flomo urged professionals, especially consultants, to adapt to the digital age or risk becoming obsolete.
“If you cannot move to the digital space, AI is already taking your place. There are common things people will no longer come to you for because systems now provide that information,” he warned.
He stressed the importance of transitioning from manual processes to digital systems, including Mobile-powered platforms, Online training and e-learning systems.
According to him, Gusceman currently has five online applications ready for the market.
The General Manager of Gusceman, Dorbor D. Kpangbala, highlighted the organization’s commitment to job creation and youth empowerment.
“We developed this digital program to provide employment for young Liberians and to impact them through training and job participation,” he said.
Kpangbala noted that since 2016, the organization has been active in multiple sectors, including Business development, Water and sanitation, Tax advisory, Financial services and Training programs.
He added that Gusceman has implemented numerous projects for NGOs, private citizens, and other stakeholders.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. John K. Mullah, President of the Liberia College of Physicians and Surgeons, praised the initiative for its potential to improve education through digital tools. “We can now bring students into digital environments where they can learn and receive their grades transparently,” he said.
Dr. Mullah expressed optimism about future collaboration: “Mr. Flomo, we assure you that we will partner with you to help Liberian students compete with their peers globally, including those at Howard University.”
