The Lofa Eye

08/09/2025

Assistant Labour Minister for Statistics and Research, Hon. Jackson F. Wolobah, successfully completed a two weeks Fellowship Program in Digital Capacity Building for Youth Workers in African Continent ('25-'27), from August 24 to September 6, 2025.
The program was organized by the Korea International Cooperation Agency and Korea Youth Work Agency under the International Cooperation Program of the Government of Korea.

28/08/2025

28/08/2025

Press Release

Ministry of Labour Launches Regulation No. 19 on Occupational Health and Safety in the Workplace

Monrovia, August 27, 2025. The Ministry of Labour, in collaboration with partners, has officially launched Regulation No. 19 on Occupational Health, Safety, and Welfare in the Workplace, in line with Chapter 29.3 of the Decent Work Act of 2015. This chapter mandates the Ministry to ensure safe, healthy, and decent working conditions for all workers in Liberia.

Delivering an overview of the new regulation, Labour Minister Cllr. Cooper W. Kruah, Sr. explained that Regulation No. 19 provides a stronger legal framework that clearly defines how workplaces must be structured to protect the lives, health, and welfare of every worker in the country.

“This regulation serves several important purposes. First, it lays out clear standards for occupational health and safety, ensuring that both employers and employees understand their roles and responsibilities. Second, it aligns Liberia with international labour standards and ILO conventions that guide best practices. Third, it establishes systems for risk assessment, prevention, and monitoring, so that safety becomes a culture across all sectors of work,” Minister Kruah emphasized.

He noted that the regulation includes provisions on workplace welfare ranging from sanitation facilities and first aid to rest areas and emergency preparedness. It also mandates continuous training and awareness programs for both employers and employees and empowers safety officers to ensure compliance while promoting collaboration between government, employers, and workers.

Highlighting its impact, Minister Kruah stated:
• For workers, the regulation serves as a shield protecting life, health, and dignity, while reducing accidents and unsafe practices.
• For employers, it provides not only a legal obligation but also a business advantage by reducing absenteeism, medical costs, and compensation claims, while improving productivity and competitiveness.
• At the national level, it supports the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), strengthens compliance with international obligations, and builds trust with Liberia’s development partners.

In conclusion, he stressed:

“Regulation No. 19 is more than a legal requirement. It is a moral duty to protect the health, safety, and dignity of Liberian workers, the true backbone of our nation’s development. Every workplace in Liberia must be safe, productive, and respectful of human rights.”

Launching the regulation on behalf of Vice President Hon. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, Sr., the Chief of Staff in the Vice President’s office, Mr. Prince M. Gbieu, described the initiative as a milestone in safeguarding workers’ welfare. He reaffirmed the Vice President’s commitment to creating safe work environments and underscored the regulation as a shared responsibility of government, employers, and employees.

Mr. Erickson T. Brown, an Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) Consultant, welcomed the regulation, stressing that it reflects an urgent national priority.

“This is not just a law in the books. It is about life, dignity, and national development. Too many preventable accidents and deaths have occurred in our workplaces. Regulation No. 19 gives the Decent Work Act real enforcement power, ensuring compliance and placing responsibility where it belongs on employers, institutions, and government alike. Safety at work is not a privilege; it is a right,” he said.

The launch ceremony, held on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the EJS Ministerial Complex, was attended by local and international partners, including representatives from the United States Embassy, the Embassy of Nigeria, the Embassy of Lebanon, the International Labour Organization (ILO), the Civil Service Agency (CSA), employer associations, and workers’ representatives, among others.

26/08/2025

Korvah Raises Concern Over Perceived Lack of Lorma Representation in Government

Voinjama District, Lofa County — A resident of Voinjama District, Mr. Emmanuel Mulbah Korvah, has expressed concern about what he describes as limited representation of the Lorma people in national government appointments under the administration of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.

In an interview with the Lofa Eye Newspaper, Mr. Korvah noted that, according to the National Elections Commission (NEC) final results, districts with predominantly Lorma populations gave the Unity Party presidential ticket of Boakai and Koung approximately 81% of their votes in the 2023 elections. He said many in the community had hoped such strong support would translate into greater inclusion in the government’s leadership structure.

Mr. Korvah who is the Lead campaigner Against the Marginalization of the Lorma People by JNB-JKK Government, explained that the Lorma and Kissi people share longstanding cultural ties, and that this relationship contributed to the strong support President Boakai received in Lorma-majority districts during the elections.

He expressed concern that, more than a year into the administration, most major appointments and development projects in Lofa County have been directed toward other districts, particularly Foya. He called for what he described as a “balanced distribution” of opportunities and development across the county’s various districts.

Mr. Korvah also commented on the general pattern of governance in Liberia, stating that in a six-year term, the early years of an administration are often used to prioritize political supporters, while later years tend to focus on outreach to other communities ahead of elections.

He concluded by encouraging open dialogue among citizens and between local leaders and the national government to ensure fair representation and equitable development across all parts of Lofa County.

It can be recalled that during th dedication of the Lofa County Rest Center on July 20, 2025, in Beyan Town, Salayea District, Lofa County, the Representative of Distcit #5, Hon. Augustine B. Chiewolo on behalf of the leadership District #5, appealed to President Boakai that elections are over as such, there are urgent needs for scholarship for the students and job creation for the people of the district though he has often said that his presidency is not to create jobs, but District-5 give the President the highest votes in the county (Salayea, Zorzor, and Voinjama), yet they don’t see themselves in the Executive noting “We want to say here clear, please try to make some provision for our people. Because this is the time the impact of our people to be felt in government. We have spoken to them, but need to hear it from me because they have always told me.”

26/08/2025

Hon. Tali Calls for Unity Among Kissi People in the Mano River Basin

Mendikorma Town, Lofa County Former Representative of Foya District, Lofa County, Hon. Philip Saah Tali, has emphasized the importance of unity among Kissi-speaking people across the three Mano River Union countries Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia.

Speaking during the dedication of a modern town hall named in his honor in Mendikorma Town, Tengia Administrative District, Foya Statutory District, Hon. Tali reminded his audience that the Kissi people share deep historical and cultural bonds.

According to him, the Kissi of the three countries once belonged to a single ancient kingdom, having lived together for many years before migrating from the Mali Empire to the forest region of West Africa.

The town hall dedication was hosted by the Representative of District #1, Lofa County, and Deputy Speaker of the Liberian National Legislature, Hon. Thomas P. Fallah. The event also featured the official opening of the Hon. Saah Windor Guest House and the Paramount Chief Fallah Mbokai Chief Compound, all constructed by Deputy Speaker Fallah at the same venue.

Mendikorma: A Strategic Border Town
Mendikorma is a triangular border community linking Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia within the Mano River Basin. Its unique geographic location makes it a central meeting point for Kissi-speaking communities from all three countries, collectively forming one of the largest tribal groups in the region.

The dedication ceremony drew a large crowd, including local and traditional leaders, senior government officials, and delegations from the three nations. Notable attendees included the Paramount Chief of Kailahun District (Sierra Leone), the Provisional Superintendent of Gaggadou (Guinea), and officials from Foya Statutory District and the Government of Liberia.

A Call to Preserve History and Support Leadership
In his remarks, Hon. Tali reflected on the history of the Kissi people and their contributions to national development. He also recounted his role as the first Representative of Foya District in the Liberian Legislature, narrating how Foya gained independence from Kolahun District to become a district of its own.

He commended the people of Foya for their sacrifices in safeguarding the district’s autonomy and dignity, urging continued unity. Hon. Tali also called on all citizens of Foya District at home and abroad to rally behind President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., himself a son of the Kissi Chiefdom. He stressed that President Boakai is the first member of the Kissi Chiefdom in the sub-region to ascend to the presidency, making his success a shared responsibility.

Deputy Speaker Fallah’s Contribution
In his brief remarks, Deputy Speaker Fallah said the construction of the three facilities at Mendikorma was in the best interest of the three neighboring countries.

He explained that the Hon. Philip Saah Tali Town Hall will serve as a venue for community and cross-border events, the Guest House will provide accommodations for travelers, and the Chief Compound was built specifically for the Paramount Chief in fulfillment of a prior promise.

“I therefore, on behalf of my family and office staff, publicly hand over the keys to these buildings for community use. From this day forward, I have absolutely no personal claim to them,” Deputy Speaker Fallah declared.

The keys were officially received by Hon. Joseph S. Mbokar, Statutory Superintendent of Foya Statutory District, and Chief Fallah Mbokai, Paramount Chief of Tengia District, on behalf of the community.

Community Gratitude
Hon. Mbokar, who is also a native of Mendikorma, expressed deep appreciation for the developments, describing them as an “eye-opener” for the community particularly for residents and travelers in the tri-border area.

He revealed that the land for the projects was freely given to Deputy Speaker Fallah following a request from the people of Mendikorma. He also commended the contractors for completing the projects on time and to high standards.

26/08/2025

For Giving Madam Kennedy a Befitting Burial:
-Zorzor District Citizens Praise Senator Jallah

Zorzor, Lofa County – The Chairman of the Lofa County Legislative Caucus, Senator Cllr. Joseph K. Jallah, continues to receive immense commendation from citizens of Zorzor District and beyond for his significant role in ensuring that the late Madam Korto Kolu Kennedy was given a dignified and befitting burial.
Senator Jallah, widely considered one of the sons of the late Madam Kennedy, played a leading role in facilitating all arrangements related to her homegoing. His active involvement in honoring her legacy has deeply touched many in the community and reaffirmed his close bond with the Kennedy family.
The late Madam Kennedy was a founding member of the "Friends of Cllr. Joseph Kpator Jallah" and a tireless supporter of his political journey. She stood with him through several electoral attempts, remaining steadfast until his successful election to the Liberian Senate in 2020. As such, many across Lofa County recognized her as a motherly figure not only to Senator Jallah but to the movement as a whole.
During the funeral proceedings, several citizens and family members paid heartfelt tributes, highlighting the many ways Senator Jallah supported Madam Kennedy during her life. One of her daughters recounted how the Senator personally intervened to ensure she was sent to Ghana for medical treatment—an act the family will never forget.
In their joint tribute, the children and family members stated:
“We, the children and family members, wish to use this occasion to commend Senator Jallah for the fatherly role he has consistently played in the Kennedy family. We acknowledge his support, not just during our mother's lifetime, but especially during her illness and after her passing. We urge the people of Lofa County, particularly in Zorzor District, to continue to see Senator Jallah as a son—just as our late mother always regarded him.”
They emphasized that his unwavering support during and after her life demonstrated his deep respect for Madam Kennedy and her role in his political journey.
Paying a brief tribute of his own, Senator Jallah recounted his longstanding relationship with Madam Kennedy, dating back to 2011:
"She was a mother and adviser to me and to our movement. Her passing has created a vacuum that will be hard to fill. It is a great loss not only to the family but to all of us who knew her."
He reaffirmed his commitment to the Kennedy family and called on them to remain united in preserving the legacy of their matriarch.
Members of the "Friends of Jallah" movement also paid tribute during the ceremony. Wearing coordinated t-shirts with the image of Madam Kennedy and the inscription "Friends of Senator Jallah," supporters from across all electoral districts of Lofa County came to honor one of their founding and strongest members. They extended condolences and presented a symbolic token to the bereaved family.
Following her passing, the Office of Senator Jallah and the "Friends of Senator Jallah" issued official statements, which were broadcast on various radio stations and published in the Lofa Eye Newspaper and the funeral program. These communications paid tribute to her life and the vital role she played in both the family and the Senator’s political life.
Madam Korto Kolu Kennedy was laid to rest on Saturday, August 16, 2025, on her farm in Salayea District. The funeral service, held in Zorzor City, was attended by several government officials, local and traditional leaders, relatives, friends, and sympathizers who came to pay their last respects.

26/08/2025

Hundreds Bid Farewell To Mother Korto Kennedy


Hundreds of citizens, including family members, friends, and sympathizers from across Lofa County, other parts of Liberia, neighboring Guinea, and the diaspora, gathered on Saturday, August 16, 2025, to bid farewell and pay their last respects to Mother Korto Kolu Kennedy.
Madam Kennedy peacefully departed this life on July 29, 2025, at her residence in Zorzor City, Lofa County. Her remains were subsequently deposited at the St. Moses Funeral Parlour in Gbarnga City, B**g County, where they awaited final funeral arrangements.
On Friday, August 15, 2025, the body was transported from the funeral home to Zorzor City, Lofa County. Upon arrival, it was received by traditional women, a marching band, motorcyclists, and local citizens. A grand procession accompanied the casket from the Zorzor LIS Checkpoint to the deceased’s residence in the city center.
That evening, a wake-keeping ceremony was held, which featured an all-night program with a variety of activities including religious services, traditional plays, cultural performances, and dances.
Funeral service took placed on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at the Zorzor City Hall. It was a well-attended event, graced by senior government officials, former and current legislators, traditional and community leaders, friends, family, and well-wishers. Dignitaries in attendance included:

Senator Cllr. Joseph Kpator Jallah, Hon. Augustine B. Chiewolo, Representative of District #5, Lofa County, Hon. Clarence Kortu Massaquoi, Chairman, Liberia Telecommunications Authority (LTA), Hon. Galakpai W. Kortimai, Director General, General Services Agency (GSA), Hon. Beyan D. Howard, Former Representative, Lofa County, Cllr. Korboi Johnson
Tributes and Reflections
Tributes poured in from a wide range of institutions, churches, government officials, friends, and family members. Organizations such as Friends of Korto Kennedy, community groups, and the Office of Senator Jallah all shared touching testimonies about the deceased’s legacy.

Hon. Clarence K. Massaquoi, former Representative of District #3 and now Commissioner General of the LTA, praised Madam Kennedy’s contributions to Lofa County. He noted her operation of a guest house and restaurant, her service with the Ministry of Commerce, and her inclusive and non-discriminatory treatment of all citizens.

Hon. Augustine B. Chiewolo described her passing as a great loss to District #5. He shared a personal story, recalling how he helped her through a medical crisis years ago. He noted that despite political differences, she remained a guiding figure and a source of wisdom and encouragement.
“The District is lost, Lofa County is lost. We pray that another mother like her will rise—one who is committed to her district, county, and country,” he stated.

Spiritual Encouragement
Delivering the funeral discourse, Rev. Zechariah Kabah, Founder and General Overseer of Life for All Nations (LIFAN), offered comforting words.
He reminded mourners that death is not the end but a transition for those in the Lord:
“There is a benefit in death—but only if you die in the Lord. Then you will receive everlasting life.”
Rev. Kabah urged the congregation to live righteously, stressing the seriousness of spiritual matters and warning that God is just and expects accountability. He concluded with a sobering reminder:
“Lofa County remains the most unevangelized county in Liberia.”
A Life Well Lived
Mother Korto Kolu Kennedy was born on December 10, 1962, in Koyamah Town, Republic of Guinea. She was raised in a humble and loving family that instilled in her the values of kindness, respect, and hard work.
Her professional journey began with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, where she served as a field agent in Lofa County until her death. She also founded the local NGO, Zorzor Women in Action (ZWA), which supported community development and women’s empowerment.
She was known for her strong leadership and commitment, having served as District Chairlady for the former National Patriotic Party (NPP) in Zorzor District from 1997 to 2000. Over the years, she received several awards and recognitions for her service and dedication.

Her impact spanned areas such as women’s rights, local entrepreneurship, community development, and capacity building.
Following the funeral service, Mother Kennedy was laid to rest on her family farm in Salayea District on the same day.

15/08/2025

Friday, August 15, 2025, edition of the Lofa Eye Newspaper

07/08/2025