CJPS launches Civil Engagement & Democratic Governance Project in Liberia

The Center for Justice and Peace Studies (CJPS) has launched a project titled: “Increasing Civil Engagement and Democratic Governance for Sustainable Development” in support of FORUM-SYD Sustainable Ownership Program in Gbarnga, Bong County.CJPS was established in Gbarnga in 1998 as a peace building, conflict, transformation and development entity.

At the height of the civil crisis in 2002, the institution was forced to relocate to Monrovia where security was relatively better.The peace building organization was officially registered with the government of Liberia through the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs in 2002, operating in Bong, Lofa and Nimba Counties.

Speaking to reporters after the launching exercise, the Executive Director of CJPS Mr. Joseph D. Howard said the process is meant to inform the public about their current activities in the Country.

According to Mr. Howard, the CJPS new project is affecting nine communities in Bong County which include Jorquelleh, Yellequelleh and Zota.
The project which is being sponsored by FORUM-SYD Liberia cost US$27,000, with a target 1,225 males and females.

Howard discloses that the project will also focus on the training of local leaders on how to engage duty bearers and managing conflict without court intervention.
The CJPS’s Executive Director narrates further that the program will educate females on how to participate in decision making processes.

In proxy of Bong County Superintendent Esther Walker, Assistant Superintendent for Development Anthony Boakai Sheriff thanked FORUM-SYD Liberia for the Support, urging CJPS to be committed in implementing the project to the fullest.By Joseph Titus Yekeryan in Bong—Edited by Winston W. Parley