The Liberia Land Authority (LLA), in partnership with the European Union and three civil society organizations, has launched a €500,000 initiative aimed at strengthening community action for land and economic security across three counties.
The project, known as the Strengthening Community Action for Land and Economic Security (SCALES), will be implemented in Nimba, Bong, and Lofa Counties by Development Education Network–Liberia (DEN-L), Rites and Rice Foundation, and JSGB. It seeks to expand awareness of the Land Rights Act, improve coordination at the local level, and advance the formalization of customary land ownership.
Speaking at the launch, LLA Chairman Hon. Samuel F. Kpakio described the initiative as “a timely and strategic intervention” that complements ongoing national land reform efforts. He expressed gratitude to the European Union for its financial support, noting that the grant reflects confidence in Liberia’s land governance agenda and underscores the importance of civil society in driving sustainable development.
“The passage of the Land Rights Act was a historic milestone, particularly in recognizing customary land rights,” Kpakio said. “But the true measure of success lies not in the legislation itself, but in its effective implementation. The SCALES Project comes at a critical juncture to address persistent challenges, including limited public awareness and weak coordination at the local level.”
The project’s design emphasizes building the capacity of community-based organizations to ensure that land rights translate into tangible economic opportunities. According to Kpakio, informed and empowered communities are better positioned to secure their land, manage it sustainably, and leverage it as a foundation for inclusive growth.
He highlighted the importance of inclusivity, stressing that women, youth, and persons with disabilities must remain central to the initiative. “Equitable access to land is not merely a legal matter; it is a question of justice, dignity, and sustainable development,” he said.
The European Union’s support, he added, demonstrates international confidence in Liberia’s reform agenda. “This investment is both timely and impactful. It reflects strong confidence in our land reform efforts and the critical role of civil society in advancing sustainable development,” Kpakio noted.
Civil society partners welcomed the collaboration, emphasizing that the project will help bridge gaps in awareness and implementation of the Land Rights Act. DEN-L and its partners pledged to work closely with communities to ensure that the benefits reach those most in need.
The LLA reaffirmed its commitment to providing technical guidance, policy direction, and institutional support throughout the project’s implementation. Kpakio urged stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitments and to work collaboratively to ensure success.
In closing, he officially declared the SCALES Project launched, calling it a “distinct honor and privilege” to witness the beginning of an initiative that promises to strengthen land governance and economic security for communities across Liberia.
