MONROVIA, LIBERIA-More than seventy residents of the Watch Tower and Voker Mission Community in Paynesville City have received a second round of financial grants from the REALISE project.

The initiative is supported by the World Bank and implemented by the Government of Liberia.

The beneficiaries, primarily small business owners, were each awarded $450.00 to strengthen their enterprises.

The REALISE project is being implemented through collaborations between the Ministries of Gender, Youth, and Sports, and the Liberia Agency for Community Empowerment (LACE).

The initiative aims to strengthen micro-businesses, enhance livelihoods, and stimulate local economic growth.

The beneficiaries expressed deep appreciation for the support, noting that the funds have helped them expand operations, purchase inventory, and improve their financial stability.

Meanwhile, the Executive Director of LACE, Julius Sele, said, “The Liberian Government remains dedicated to improving livelihoods, particularly for vulnerable communities”.

Sele emphasized that the government is actively developing targeted programs to address the needs of disadvantaged groups.

He spoke on Thursday, August 14, 2025, in Paynesville City during the disbursement of financial grants to the recipients.

According to the Executive Director, initiatives like the REALISE project demonstrate the government’s commitment to ensuring that no one is left behind in Liberia’s development agenda.

In remarks, REALISE project Coordinator Jesse Bengu urged recipients to use the funds wisely to sustain and grow their businesses.

Bengu also disclosed that the Paynesville beneficiaries had received the largest disbursement under the project, which comprises six key components aimed at fostering economic resilience.