Min Nyumalin and CRS Rep
Minister Nyumalin and CRS Rep

Ministry of Local Government Signs Technical Agreement with CRS to Boost Decentralization Efforts

Ministry of Local Government Signs Technical Agreement with CRS to Boost Decentralization Efforts

The Ministry of Local Government (MLG) has signed a landmark technical cooperation agreement with Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to strengthen decentralization and enhance the Ministry’s capacity to implement its strategic priorities. 

The partnership builds on CRS’s earlier support in 2025, which contributed to the development of key strategic documents, including the Ministry’s Strategic Plan. While the plan provides a clear vision and direction for decentralization, implementation has faced challenges due to gaps in human resources and leadership capacity. The new agreement seeks to directly address these constraints by providing technical assistance, training, and institutional support. 

A Timely Partnership for Institutional Growth 

At the signing ceremony, Minister Francis Sakila Nyumalin Sr. lauded CRS for what he described as a timely and strategic partnership. He emphasized that as the Ministry continues to evolve, external support is critical to building the systems, skills, and leadership needed to effectively advance Liberia’s decentralization agenda. “This agreement is more than technical cooperation; it is an investment in Liberia’s governance future,” Minister Nyumalin stated. “With CRS’s support, we will strengthen our institutional foundation and ensure that decentralization delivers real benefits to citizens across all counties.” The agreement underscores CRS’s long‑standing commitment to supporting governance reforms in Liberia. By focusing on capacity building, leadership development, and resource management, the partnership will help the Ministry: 

  • Strengthen institutional frameworks for decentralization. 

  • Enhance leadership capacity at both national and county levels. 

  • Improve service delivery through better planning and accountability. 

  • Promote citizen participation in local governance processes. 

The ceremony took place on April 27, 2026, at the Ministry of Local Government headquarters in Monrovia. Glynnis Cummings‑Johnson signed on behalf of CRS, while Minister Nyumalin signed on behalf of the Government of Liberia. 

Looking Ahead 

The agreement is expected to accelerate the Ministry’s ability to implement its Strategic Plan and deepen decentralization reforms nationwide. By bridging capacity gaps and reinforcing leadership structures, the partnership will contribute to building a more responsive, accountable, and citizen‑centered governance system. The Ministry of Local Government looks forward to working closely with CRS to ensure that decentralization reforms translate into stronger institutions, empowered counties, and improved service delivery for all Liberians.