Speaker Koffa Craves More Investments for Liberian Children

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, J. Fonati Koffa, has demonstrated his commitment to supporting Liberian children as he rallies support for the construction of a Children's Dialogue Resource Center in Bomi County. He has already committed $12,000 for the construction of the center.

Speaking at the 16th anniversary celebration of the Children's Dialogue in Demeh, Bomi County over the weekend, Koffa stressed the importance of investing in the youth to groom them for future leadership roles.

“Liberia, despite its age, lags behind many countries due to a lack of human capacity. Our ability to develop our people is crucial, and this is exactly what initiatives like the Children’s Dialogue aim to achieve,” he said.

Addressing the children directly, he emphasized their importance and the collective responsibility to support and mentor them for future leadership roles.

The event honored the legacy of veteran journalist Varney Gbessay, the founder of the Children's Dialogue, which has played a pivotal role in mentoring and amplifying the voices of young Liberians over the years.

Acknowledging the significance of nurturing human capacity in Liberia, Speaker Koffa commended the organization for its contributions in mentoring future leaders who have gone on to serve in prominent roles.

The Children’s Dialogue, through its television program, has mentored numerous children who have gone on to become leaders and scholars, some serving in government roles and others pursuing higher education locally and abroad.

To mark its 16th anniversary, the Children’s Dialogue organized a vibrant program in Demeh to raise funds for a resource center in the town.

The commemorative event in Demeh aimed to raise funds for the construction of a resource center, with Speaker Koffa making a personal donation of $2,000 and pledging an additional $10,000 from his colleagues in support of the initiative.

Demeh, the venue of the event, holds a huge significance in the creative and literary history of Liberia as it is the hometown of renowned Liberian author, folklorist, and poet, Bai T. Moore, whose legacy Speaker Koffa honored during the event.

The Speaker was accompanied to the event by fellow lawmakers Reps. Samuel Enders (District #6, Montserrado County) and Bernard Benson (District #17, Montserrado County), both of whom pledged their support to the Children’s Dialogue initiative.

Christiana S. Tamba, the Children’s spokesperson, praised Speaker Koffa's commitment to the development of Liberian youth, describing him as a true national leader who embodies hope for the future and demonstrates unwavering support for initiatives like the Children’s Dialogue.

“Today, words are inadequate to express the exceptional joy that has filled our hearts because of your presence here today, upon hearing about the tragic fire incident that happened to your home, we felt deeply sad and worried that you will not be part of this event,” Tamba said. “But to our utmost surprise, we received a confirmation message from the office confirming your attendance here at the program, and true to your words, you are here today.”

Tamba said the Speaker’s presence showed that he is a true national leader.

“It proves your desire to see the development of kids in Liberia. Even though you have not directly interacted with us before, your actions towards the children’s dialogue show that you believe in us, and we have a leader who cannot disappoint us despite any circumstances. You have given us hope as a leader and father,” she said

Meanwhile, joined by fellow lawmakers, the Speaker's presence and commitment to youth development were praised by the children and organizers, highlighting his dedication to empowering the next generation of Liberian leaders.