Duarzon, Margibi County 09/16/2024: In a heartfelt appeal to the newly appointed Minister of Finance and Development Planning (MFDP), community leaders from the National Union Community of Forestry Development Committees (NUCFDCs) have urged the government to prioritize the disbursement of overdue land rental fees owed to forest communities across Liberia. The letter, which expresses gratitude for the minister’s appointment, underscores the need for a collaborative relationship between the ministry and local communities to resolve longstanding financial grievances.
The NUCFDCs, representing over 500 communities located within government-awarded forestry concession areas, highlighted that many of these communities rely heavily on agriculture and non-timber forest products for their livelihoods. Established in 2009, the organization has worked tirelessly to advocate for inclusive decision-making and sustainable management of natural resources.
In their letter, community leaders emphasized that, according to the National Forestry Reform Law of 2006, affected communities are entitled to receive 30% of land rental fees paid by logging concessionaires. However, they pointed out a significant shortfall in payments over the years. While the Government of Liberia was to pay approximately ten million United States Dollars from the money collected from 2008 – 2023, only four million has been disbursed to the communities, leaving an outstanding balance of over six million dollars.
The leaders expressed concern over the current fiscal year, in which US$746,292 was allocated in the National Budget to address these arrears. As they enter the ninth month of the fiscal year, no payments have been made against this appropriation. Furthermore, an agreement made three months ago regarding a partial payment of US$300,000 remains unfulfilled, causing frustration among community members who have previously resorted to demonstrations to demand their rights.
In light of these challenges, the NUCFDCs are calling for the immediate release of funds that have already been earmarked for disbursement. They noted that a check for US$300,000 has been printed but is reportedly being held without justification. The community leaders are requesting the minister’s intervention to ensure timely approval and release of these funds through the National Benefit Sharing Trust Board.
Historically, previous administrations have faced protests from community members demanding payment of these fees. However, under the current government, leaders have shown restraint and patience, hoping for a more favorable response to their concerns. They are now reaching out for an opportunity to meet with the minister on September 25, 26, or 27 to discuss these issues further and explore how they can work together for the betterment of forest communities in Liberia.
The letter concludes with a strong call for a productive partnership aimed at ensuring that communities receive their rightful share of benefits from natural resources and contribute meaningfully to national development.
As discussions unfold, the NUCFDCs remain hopeful that with the minister’s leadership and commitment to community welfare, they can finally address these long-standing issues and foster a brighter future for Liberia’s forest communities.
Organization Contacts: Website: https://www.nucfdc.org/
Facebook page: https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100054613262974
YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@NUCFDCs
WhatsApp Page: https://chat.whatsapp.com/I6YksVhGiqq284LzgbAdlI
