MONROVIA – The House of Representatives, in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), has successfully concluded a two-day high-level capacity-building workshop for Members of the House of Representatives at the Farmington Hotel in Margibi County.
The workshop, held under the theme: “Enhancing Legislative Performance and Accountability in Liberia,” brought together more than thirty-seven members of the House of Representatives, along with members of the House Secretariat headed by Chief Clerk Mildred Sayon.
The intensive training program aimed at strengthening the institutional and legislative capacities of lawmakers to improve public service delivery, accountability, oversight and democratic governance in Liberia.
Facilitators included experts and experienced parliamentary practitioners, among them former Ghanaian Member of Parliament, Hon. Mensah, who shared practical experiences and insights on parliamentary practices and governance.
Throughout the two-day workshop, participants engaged in discussions and presentations on critical issues including strengthening legislative capacity for good governance, separation of powers, parliamentary oversight, legislative functions and responsibilities, standing orders and parliamentary procedures, budget processes, committee systems, constituency representation, citizen engagement, parliamentary ethics and legislative implementation practices.
Speaking during the opening of the workshop, Dr. Stefanie Brinkel, Director of the Regional Programme “Political Dialogue in West Africa” at Konrad Adenauer Stiftung, emphasized the important role of Parliament in advancing democratic governance and public sector reforms.
Dr. Brinkel expressed appreciation to the leadership of the House of Representatives, particularly Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon, for the collaboration that made the initiative possible, while also thanking lawmakers for dedicating time to participate in the exercise despite their demanding schedules.
She noted that strong democratic institutions remain the foundation of good governance, sustainable development, and social cohesion, stressing that Parliament occupies a critical position as the institution responsible for legislation, oversight, budget approval, and ensuring that public policies respond to the needs of citizens.
According to Dr. Brinkel, Liberia continues to make significant progress in strengthening democratic institutions and public sector reforms, adding that effective parliamentary performance contributes directly to national stability, economic growth and public confidence in state institutions.
She further stated that KAS remains committed to supporting democratic institutions and fostering political dialogue throughout West Africa, while expressing confidence that the workshop would generate meaningful discussions and practical recommendations.
Making remarks at the close of the workshop, House Speaker Richard Nagbe Koon commended Konrad Adenauer Stiftung and the German Embassy for the initiative and expressed gratitude for their continued support toward strengthening Liberia’s democratic institutions.
Speaker Koon also thanked fellow lawmakers for their active participation and commitment throughout the training, emphasizing that continuous capacity building remains essential in improving legislative work and ensuring effective representation of the Liberian people.
The Speaker further announced that participating lawmakers will officially receive certificates during Tuesday’s plenary session.
Additionally, Speaker Koon mandated the House Committee on Education to collect all workshop presentations and organize a Training of Trainers (TOT) program for lawmakers who were unable to attend, with the objective of ensuring that all members benefit from the knowledge and skills acquired during the workshop.
