KAKATA, MARGIBI COUNTY, LIBERIA-The Government of Liberia has renewed its commitment to protecting journalists and strengthening their professional capacities.

Presidential Press Secretary atty. Kula Fofana said,” Efforts are underway to provide training opportunities where media practitioners can perform their duties more effectively”.

Atty. Fofana noted that building the capacity of journalists remains essential to promoting transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse.

She emphasized that a well-trained media sector plays a critical role in national development by ensuring that citizens receive accurate and timely information.

The Presidential Press Secretary was speaking on Monday, May 4, 2026, at this year’s World Press Freedom Day in Kakata, Margibi County.

Madam Fofana disclosed that while press freedom is vital, it must be exercised responsibly and within the legal framework to maintain order and protect national interests.

At the same time, the United Nations Development Program Country Representative to Liberia, Aliou Dia, wants Liberian journalists to report on issues that positively promote the country’s image.

Dia urged journalists to focus on solution-oriented reporting that highlights progress and showcases development across Liberia.

The UN Envoy emphasized the critical role of the media in rebranding Liberia’s image.

He noted that reporting on prospects and positive developments can create opportunities and attract investments.

Dia underscored the importance of press freedom in advancing democracy, describing it as one of the strongest pillars of the rule of law in any nation.

Meanwhile, Dia has called on journalists to consistently verify information before publication.

He stressed the role of the media in shaping informed decision-making in society.

The UN Envoy underscored the need for accurate, fair, and impartial reporting across Liberia’s media landscape.

The United Nations Development Program Country Representative to Liberia, Aliou Dia, reaffirmed the United Nations commitment to supporting Press Freedom in Liberia.

Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Director General of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS), Kadiatu Conteh-Bohiri, has stressed the importance of press freedom in furtherance of democracy.

According to Madam Bohiri, press freedom is critical because it enables journalists to investigate corruption and human rights abuses in any country.

The LBS Deputy Director General for Administration also called on media practitioners in Liberia to prioritize professionalism for the betterment of the country and its people.

Meanwhile, Madam Bohiri is urging public officials to remain open to the media to foster transparency and accountability.

By: Naketa Roberts/Stanley Johnson/Emmanuel Bondo