The News Media - TNM (2025)

15/12/2025

Prof. Paul Kennedy writes 👇👇

Happy New Week: Below is my take on the US-Liberia MOU on Health System Strengthening

The U.S.–Liberia Health MOU: Separating Facts from Fear

In recent weeks, public discussion surrounding the U.S.–Liberia Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been dominated by fear, speculation, and misinformation. Claims have circulated suggesting that the agreement allows the United States to collect blood samples from Liberians, access personal medical records, or secretly control Liberia’s health system. Others argue that the MOU represents a loss of national sovereignty. These claims are false.

Let us be clear, factual, and calm.

What is this MOU?

The U.S.–Liberia Health MOU is a non-binding cooperation framework between the Government of Liberia and the United States Government. It does not create new laws, does not override Liberian sovereignty, and does not transfer control of Liberia’s health system to any foreign entity.
The agreement simply outlines how the two governments will continue limited technical cooperation in areas such as disease surveillance, public health preparedness, and health system coordination—at a time when traditional U.S. health funding is being reduced.

What the MOU is NOT

The MOU:
❌ does not authorize blood sample collection
❌ does not grant access to Liberians’ medical records
❌ does not give the U.S. control over health data
❌ does not replace Liberia’s laws or policies
Liberia’s health data remain governed by Liberian law, ethical review processes, informed consent requirements, and international public health norms that protect privacy and national ownership.

Why is this happening now? The real context

To understand this agreement, we must confront a difficult reality:
U.S. and USAID-funded health programs across Liberia—and many other low-income countries—are being scaled down or withdrawn.
For decades, Liberia’s health system depended heavily on donor support for:
- disease surveillance
- laboratory systems
- emergency preparedness
- health worker salaries
- outbreak response
That era is ending.

The MOU did not create this situation. It acknowledges it. Rather than allowing a sudden collapse of essential systems, the agreement provides a managed transition framework—maintaining limited cooperation while pushing Liberia to take greater responsibility for financing, governance, and sustainability of its own health system. This is not foreign control. It is donor exit management.

How does Liberia benefit?

The MOU offers several important benefits:
- Continued technical cooperation on disease surveillance and preparedness
- Protection of critical public health functions during a fragile transition
- Preservation of Liberia’s integration into regional and global health security systems
- Pressure for long-overdue reforms in domestic health financing, accountability, and efficiency

How could Liberia be hurt?

The risks are not imposed by the U.S.—they are internal.
If Liberia fails to:
- increase and protect health sector budgets
- pay health workers on time
- manage funds transparently
- strengthen legislative and civil society oversight
then clinics may close, services may decline, and communities may suffer. These outcomes would result from governance failures, not from the MOU itself.

What is the U.S. getting out of this?

The United States is not extracting biological samples or personal data.

What it gains is:
- reduced global health risk through early disease detection continued international health cooperation without long-term financial commitments
- protection against outbreaks that can spread across borders

Diseases do not respect national boundaries. Global health security is a shared interest.

Lies vs. Facts
Lie: The U.S. will take blood samples
Fact: No such authority exists in the MOU
Lie: The U.S. will access Liberians’ medical records
Fact: Health data remain under Liberian law and control
Lie: Liberia has surrendered sovereignty
Fact: The MOU is non-binding and does not override national authority

The real questions Liberians should be asking
Instead of panic or rejection, we should be asking:

Is Liberia increasing its health budget responsibly?

Are health funds transparent and well managed?

Is Parliament exercising real oversight?

Is civil society monitoring this transition effectively?

This moment demands leadership, honesty, and accountability—not slogans or fear.

The bottom line
No donor was ever meant to permanently fund Liberia’s health system. The era of emergency dependency is ending, whether we are prepared or not.

This MOU is neither a gift nor a conspiracy.
It is a mirror—forcing Liberia to confront hard choices about responsibility, sustainability, and national priorities.

Liberia’s health future will not be decided in Washington.

It will be decided in Monrovia—by our policies, our budgets, and our integrity. Let us debate with facts, not fear. Let us demand accountability, not illusions.

Let me know what your thoughts are in the comments section

✍🏽 Paul K. Kennedy
Public Health Advisor with over 15 years of experience strengthening health systems in the Caribbean, the United States, and African countries

25/11/2025

Professor Paul Kennedy writes👇👇

Liberia problem can be fixed but it is “WE THE PEOPLE” who have to fix it by electing the right Lawmakers. See my solution below, please comment and let me know what you think. Share this if you wanna join us to make this happen.

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27/10/2025

Update:

"Unfounded Allegations Against NASSCORP's Director General, GAC Provides clarity."

The General Auditing Commission of Liberia's (GAC) recent Audit report has putting Dewitt B. VonBallmoos, the Director General of the National Social Security and Welfare Corporation (NASSCORP), in a celebrated position by Liberians.
The audit conducted covers 2022 and 2023 and it provides clarification on the corporation financial status and expenditure. The report also provides employment status under Director General VonBallmoos leadership.

The leadership of DG Dewitt B. VonBallmoos has endeavor to have NASSCORP working tirelessly to provide social security services to the people of Liberia.

A thorough review of VonBallmoos' tenure as Director General reveals a track record of transparency, accountability, and prudent management. Under his leadership, NASSCORP has implemented various initiatives, including the construction of housing units, the establishment of a state-of-the-art Medical Diagnostic Center, which has significantly improved healthcare services in Liberia and the constructionof a state-of-the-art NASSCORP Headquarters in sinkor, Monrovia. These achievements demonstrate VonBallmoos' commitment to the growth and development of NASSCORP and the welfare of its beneficiaries.

The GAC report, provides clare understanding about the dealings of the Director General at NASSCORP, VonBallmoos has been transparent and his actions have been guided by the best standard practice and in the best interests of NASSCORP and its stakeholders.

The unfounded and misleading propaganda on the social media is been spared by paid agents, with malicious propaganda and only meant to undermine the leadership and the reputable image of the institution.

Meanwhile, workings of NASSCORP has referred to media institutions and Facebook bloggers that they lacks concrete evidence to support the allegations they are raising against the Director General and has been manipulated by individuals who want to undermine the good workings and dreams of the Director General at NASSCORP

According to NASSCORP workers, they categorically deny the allegations leveled against VonBallmoos, We are confident that a fair and impartial probe in this audit has been revealed by the GAC and exonerate VonBallmoos of any wrongdoing. NASSCORP remains committed to its mission of providing social security services to the people of Liberia, and we will not let unfounded allegations derail our efforts.

Meanwhile, workers urge the public to disregard the baseless allegations against VonBallmoos and instead focus on the tangible progress being made by NASSCORP under his leadership. We are confident that the truth has prevail, and VonBallmoos will continue to lead NASSCORP with integrity and dedication.

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09/10/2025

Update:

Mr. Simeon Freeman writes ✍️

A Tale of Two Anglophone Nations.

Liberia's 1979 GDP was $814.1 million with a population of 1.873 million people while Ghana, with a population of 11.6 million people boasted a GDP of $4.02 billion. The difference between both GDPs was about $3 billion dollars. 45 years later, Ghana's 2024 GDP was $82.83 with a population of 34.43 million people and Liberia's 2024 GDP of $4.75 billion with a population of 5.6 million people.

A $3 billion gap widened to $78 billion dollars over a 45 years period. Ghana, like Liberia, endured massive governance challenges and military rule but tackled their challenges headon to become a leading source of innovation, local job creation, better educational and health facilities and infrastructure best suited to attract investment.

This doesn't suggest Ghana is problem free but they have overcome significant resistance to become a competitive market in West Africa. This means Liberia can change her governance model to enable better outcomes in the months ahead.

The mindset in Liberia that private sector jobs must be created exclusively through private investment is parallel to the known patterns in the Western World or Asia that produced strong economic output. Taxation is not just for the preservation of bureaucracy but an envelope for national economic enhancement. Taxes must be used to create jobs, not in government, but in the private sector. The larger the bureaucracy, the larger the expense but the larger the private sector, the larger the tax base, that's why Asian and Western governments invest massively in their private sectors as a vehicle for guaranteed enlarged tax collection in the succeeding years. Continuous budget shortfalls in Liberia is guaranteed under the current system that celebrates the construction of a presidential residence or city hall in a county as development while value added agricultural initiatives with clear job creation proposition are ignored.

We too can get there but under a leader with an agenda. My administration as President will change our story like I did for myself.

08/10/2025

Update:

Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mme. Sara Beysolow Nyanti, on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, received in audience the newly appointed Honorary Consul General of the Slovak Republic, Mr. Upjit Singh Sachdeva, commonly known as “Jeety,” at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Monrovia.

During the meeting, Foreign Minister Nyanti warmly welcomed Mr. Sachdeva to his new diplomatic role and extended heartfelt congratulations on his appointment as Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic with residence in Monrovia.

She commended the Government of the Slovak Republic for strengthening bilateral relations with Liberia through the establishment of this honorary consulate.

Minister Nyanti underscored the importance of enhanced cooperation between Liberia and the Slovak Republic, particularly in areas of trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchange to achieve the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive development under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr.

In response, Mr. Sachdeva expressed gratitude to the Slovak Government for the confidence reposed in him and to Foreign Minister Nyanti for the warm reception.

He pledged to work diligently to promote and protect the interests of the Slovak Republic in Liberia, while fostering partnerships that will yield tangible benefits for both nations.

Dr. Upjit Singh Sachdeva is a distinguished entrepreneur, diplomat, and philanthropist who currently serves as CEO/Managing Director of Salala Rubber Corporation, established in 1959, and Jeety Trading Corporation, based in Vai Town, Monrovia. He also heads several international enterprises, including Jeety Rubber LLC and J&J Investment LLC in the United States, operating major hotel brands such as the Holiday Inn Express and Best Western Plus.

Dr. Sachdeva previously served as Honorary Consul General of India in Liberia for over 25 years, where he worked to strengthen India–Liberia relations, promote education, and champion humanitarian causes.

He is a Member of the Boards of Trustees at several leading Liberian institutions, including the University of Liberia, Cuttington University, Booker Washington Institute, and the AME Zion University, reflecting his strong commitment to education and national development.

He has also received multiple “Consul General of the Year,” “Businessman of the Year,” and “Humanitarian of the Year” awards from leading Liberian media institutions.
As a philanthropist, Dr. Sachdeva has consistently supported education, health, and humanitarian causes across Liberia, including the donation of an ambulance to the University of Liberia and assistance to communities affected by civil conflict.

Mr. Sachdeva’s appointment as Honorary Consul of the Slovak Republic in Liberia represents a significant milestone in the expansion of Liberia’s diplomatic engagements with European nations.

07/10/2025

The News Media - TNM

Breaking ‼️‼️

Concerns have been raised about an individual named Vandilark Partrick, who claims to be an activist. According to reports, some individuals, including Minister of Labor, Minister Cooper Kuah, Minister J. Alexander Nuetah, and popular Businessman Jetty, have been approached by Partrick with allegations and demands for money. After they refused to cooperate, it is said that he's now going about to tarnish thier reputation respectively, something many believe is the situation with he and Mr. Jetty at the moment.

Please be advised to be cautious when dealing with individuals who claim to represent a cause or movement. Genuine activism is about promoting the rights and interests of the broader public, not personal gain.

The public should exercise caution when reading story folks on line who claim to be activists, as their motives may not always be genuine. It's essential to verify the authenticity of such individuals and their claims before engaging with them or supporting their assertion. This helps to protect oneself from being misled and ensures that the integrity of well meaningful Liberians be kept. By being vigilant and informed, the public can make better decisions and avoid falling prey to individuals with ulterior motives.

04/09/2025

🚨BREAKING:
Suspended MCSS Boss Accused of Embezzlement and Forgery..!!!

In a shocking turn of events, former Monrovia Consolidated School System (MCSS) Superintendent James A.S. Momoh has been accused of violating his suspension terms by continuing to receive his salary through a different bank. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai suspended Momoh on June 4, 2025, over allegations of administrative and financial misconduct, with explicit instructions not to receive any salary during the suspension period.

However, according to reports, Momoh allegedly collaborated with the HR Director, Ms. Korpo Davis to bypass this directive by using GT Bank to receive his salary, instead of the usual IB Bank used by the entity. Furthermore, they are accused of falsifying the signature of the newly appointed acting boss, Dr. Augurie Stevens to facilitate the unauthorized payments.

This scandal has sparked outrage and raised concerns about corruption that has been within the MCSS.

Before his official suspension, the MCSS Board had previously recommended Momoh's suspension, citing irreconcilable differences and unresolved accusations of corruption, insubordination, and mismanagement.

This scandal however highlights the need for robust oversight and accountability mechanisms at the MCSS to prevent corruption and ensure that public funds are used for their intended purposes.

We therefore call on the Liberia Anti-Corruption Commission (LACC) to swiftly investigate these allegations and bring the perpetrators to justice, ensuring accountability and transparency in the management of public resources.

Please see below for documentation evidence 👇👇👇.

29/08/2025

Update:

Hon. Solomon Weawea Executive Director LNHCDA writes 👇👇👇

The main issue with drugs in the country is not ma*****na, which has been on the local market for the past 50 years without a single reported fatality. This substance is actually used in the pharmaceutical industry as prescription medication for various health conditions and should be regulated. The Department of Pharmacovigilance at the National Drug Service should partner with the Liberia Drugs Enforcement Agency to identify and distinguish between controlled and prohibited substances. The substances harming our children must be identified and forcefully eliminated from the country by targeting importers and vendors. Liberia is our collective heritage. Solomon Weawea, Executive Director, LNHCDA.

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27/08/2025

Update:

Dr. Prince Yeakehson writes 👇👇👇👇👇

Speech by Prince Yeakehson for being elected as Interim President of the Diaspora Liberian Development Initiatives (DLDI)

Distinguished Members of the Diaspora Liberian Development Initiatives (DLDI), Fellow Liberians in the Diaspora, Ladies and Gentlemen:
Good evening to you all.

It is with deep humility, honor, and a profound sense of responsibility that I stand before you today, having been elected as the Interim President of DLDI for a two-year term. Thank you for entrusting me with this sacred responsibility. This is not a personal victory, but rather a call to service — a mandate to set the pace for this great organization that belongs to every Liberian in the diaspora.

Why DLDI? A Shared Vision for Liberia
Our beloved Liberia is rich in culture, heritage, and natural resources, yet the scars of war, underdevelopment, and economic hardship remain visible. While our government and local partners continue to do their part, we in the diaspora know that our remittances, expertise, and collective influence already form one of the strongest lifelines sustaining Liberia.

The creation of DLDI is a recognition that diaspora Liberians are not just supporters of development, but key drivers of national transformation. Through unity, structure, and accountability, we can channel our collective contributions into impactful, large-scale projects that touch lives across Liberia’s 15 counties.
Our Aims and Objectives
The aims and objectives of DLDI are clear, inspiring, and achievable:
1. To promote sustainable development in Liberia by leveraging our diaspora capital and expertise.
2. To foster collaboration between diaspora communities and stakeholders in Liberia.
3. To serve as an advocacy and development platform for Liberians abroad.
4. To help set and revise Liberia’s development agenda.
5. To implement community-based projects in every county — from clinics and schools to water systems and roads.
6. To support youth empowerment, education, and vocational training.
7. To build strong partnerships with governments, donors, NGOs, and the private sector.
8. To host annual forums that connect diaspora voices with local stakeholders.
9. To function as a nonprofit, non-governmental, non-sectarian, and non-political organization.
10. To be an instrument of peace and reconciliation in the diaspora community, bridging divides and fostering unity

The $1.00 Remittance Drive: A Game-Changer

One of our boldest and most transformative initiatives is the $1.00 Remittance Drive. Every year, Liberians in the diaspora send an estimated $700 million to $1 billion home. Imagine if just one dollar from each remittance — an amount so small it is often unnoticed — were dedicated to a transparent, accountable fund overseen by the Fifteen-County Diaspora Board of DLDI.
That one dollar could finance:
· Community libraries and schools in underserved areas.
· Health clinics and sanitation projects in rural communities.
· Agriculture and food security initiatives to empower farmers.

· Scholarships for youth, producing Liberia’s next generation of doctors, engineers, and scientists.
This initiative is not government money. It is money by the diaspora, for the diaspora, and for Liberia’s development. All funds will be managed transparently by our Fifteen-County Diaspora Board and independently audited to guarantee trust, integrity, and accountability.

At present, the 15 County Board seats are vacant. We are therefore calling on every Liberian diaspora county organization — whether in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, Asia, or Africa — to collectively nominate, appoint, or elect one representative to sit on the DLDI Board for their county. This ensures fair representation and oversight of how the funds collected are allocated and utilized.

In keeping with DLDI’s aims and objectives, we strongly encourage you to select individuals who are not only capable of meeting the Election Commission’s criteria and guidelines but are also committed to learning, serving, and helping to impact lives and communities in Liberia.
Formal letters of invitation for nominations will be sent out this week. We urge every diaspora county organization to act promptly in identifying and forwarding their representative. Together, we will set a strong foundation for accountable, diaspora-driven development in Liberia.

The Task Ahead

As Interim President, I pledge to:
· Build the institutional foundation of DLDI, ensuring strong governance and accountability.
· Strengthen partnerships with diaspora organizations such as ULAA, EFLA, and others across the globe.
· Launch visible and impactful projects in Liberia within the next two years.

· Mobilize every Liberian in the diaspora to recognize that DLDI is their organization, not a club, not a clique, but a unifying umbrella.
A Call to Unity and Action

Brothers and sisters, this is our moment. For too long, the diaspora has been fragmented, with countless associations working in silos. DLDI offers us a common platform — a place where we can come together not as individuals or factions, but as One Diaspora, One Liberia.

Let us rally behind this vision. Let us put aside differences. Let us contribute our $1, our expertise, our time, and our networks. For when the history of Liberia’s renewal is written, let it be said that the diaspora stood up, organized itself, and became a cornerstone of national progress.
Conclusion

I accept this mandate with humility and determination. With God above, with your support, and with our collective willpower, DLDI will set a new standard for diaspora engagement and development.

Together, we are United Diaspora Building Liberia. Together, we are One Diaspora, One Liberia.
Thank you and best wishes to Liberia and every one of us in the diaspora.

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22/07/2025

Update:

Tuesday-July,22.2022

" 52 towns to benefit from the Lighting project by Jeety Rubber Company ".

The Jeety Rubber Company, located in Margibi District 5, is set to make a significant impact in the community this week. This Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the company will dedicate the renovated Townhall in Baypolu, a testament to its commitment to improving the lives of citizens in the area. This initiative is part of the company's ongoing efforts to give back to the community and provide essential infrastructure for the benefit of its workers and the broader population.

The dedication ceremony will be followed by a remarkable milestone - the installation of 58 solar street lights in 52 towns adjacent to the company's operations. This initiative, scheduled for tomorrow, will undoubtedly enhance safety and security in these communities, promoting a better quality of life for residents. The installation of solar street lights is a significant step towards sustainable development and demonstrates the company's dedication to harnessing renewable energy solutions.

Since its establishment, the Jeety Rubber Company has consistently demonstrated its commitment to meeting the corporate needs of its workers and citizens in the area. The company's contributions to the community are multifaceted, ranging from the provision of schools to community engagement initiatives and healthcare deliveries. These efforts have undoubtedly had a positive impact on the lives of residents, and the company's continued investment in the community is a welcome development.

The upcoming events at the Jeety Rubber Company are a testament to its role as a responsible corporate citizen. As the company continues to grow and expand its operations, its commitment to community development remains unwavering. The dedication of the renovated Townhall and the installation of solar street lights are significant milestones that will have a lasting impact on the community. The Jeety Rubber Company's efforts serve as a shining example of corporate social responsibility, and its contributions to the development of Margibi District 5 are truly commendable.

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16/07/2025

Update:

"Uncover the Rich History of Liberia's Mandingo and Fula Communities"

We are excited to share with you a fascinating book that explores the migration of the Mandingo and Fula ethnic groups to Liberia. Written by renowned author Solomon Weawea, "The Migration of Mandingo and Fula Ethnic Group to Liberia" is a compelling read that sheds light on the experiences and contributions of these communities.

If you're interested in learning more about Liberia's diverse cultural heritage, this book is a must-read. Solomon Weawea's meticulous research and engaging storytelling make this book an invaluable resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Liberian history.

You can find "The Migration of Mandingo and Fula Ethnic Group to Liberia" on Amazon. Simply visit the platform, search for the book title and author, and get your copy today!

Book Details:
Title: The Migration of Mandingo and Fula Ethnic Group to Liberia
Author: Solomon Weawea
Available on: Amazon

15/07/2025

"Citizens Movement for Justice and Peace
in Liberia condemned CDC-COP allegations against Commissioner General Elijah Rufus".

After conducting thorough investigations, the Citizens Movement for Justice and Peace has found no evidence to support allegations made by the CDC-COP accusing Commissioner General of the Liberia Immigration Service, Elijah Rufus, of masterminding the deaths of two young Liberians, Mayoungor keleko and yarkpawolo Moisema.

The movement is concerned of the deaths of these young Liberians and other alarming deaths but it should not be politize.
(CMFJP) SPOKESMAN stated that Commissioner General Rufus has demonstrated over twenty (20) years of service, at the Liberia Immigration Service, his commitment to transparency, Peace and the rule of law, and his integrity remains intact. We believe these allegations are unfounded, baseless and lack concrete evidence and have no iota of truth.

The Citizens Movement for Justice and Peace condemned the deaths of those young Liberians and ask that investigation be conducted and perpetrator be brought to justice.

Moreover, CMFJP stands in support of justice, peace and the rule of laws, trusting that justice will prevail.
But there should be no space to politically tarnish a hard earned character of a reputable stateman in the country.
Citizens Movement for Justice and Peace call for calm and restraint as the governce process is ongoing successfully..

Signed:
Mr. Momodu Zeatemah
Secretary General
Citizens Movement for Justice and Peace.

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