Liberia: Newly Appointed EFLA President Pledges to Strengthen Organization

By Gerald C. Koinyeneh

Francis Mensah, the newly appointed president of the European Federation of Liberian Associations (EFLA), has vowed to enhance the organization's effectiveness for the betterment of its members and the broader Liberian community. 

In his inaugural speech, Mr. Mensah acknowledged the financial challenges EFLA has faced since its establishment, revealing that past leaders have personally funded the organization's operations, including covering officials' travel expenses to represent EFLA's interests and support initiatives both in Liberia and Europe.

Mensah stressed the importance of greater financial support from Liberians residing in Europe. He urged individuals to contribute through regular dues payments and financial assistance to bolster EFLA's financial stability. This, he emphasized, would empower EFLA to more effectively advocate for community interests and engage with relevant government institutions in both Europe and Liberia.

He said, “Under my leadership as President, I want all Liberians residing in Europe to take responsibility and purchase shares in EFLA through dues payments or whatever financial assistance; to ensure that EFLA is financially strengthened to enable us function smoothly, so that we can ably represent your concerns and adequately engage our requisite government institutions in Europe and Liberia.” 

Dr. Liana Ursa, Financial Secretary, Mrs. Mildred Towah Scholte, Vice President in picture with Mr. Francis Mensah, EFLA’s president. They will lead the organization for the next two years. 

Founded in 2005 in Antwerp, Belgium, EFLA was established by concerned and patriotic Liberians who sought refuge abroad due to Liberia's devastating civil conflict. EFLA's mission is to unite Liberians in Europe and preserve Liberian identity and culture, especially for the children born in Europe.

Mensah outlined his administration's goal of raising €10,000 within its first year through collaborative projects with Liberian-European NGOs. He introduced a 'Project Task Force' and appointed former secretary-general and former chairlady of the Board of Directors of EFLA, Madam Emily Erskine, to oversee these initiatives.

Under the new leadership, a mediation committee will be established to address conflicts within the Liberian community in Norway. Additionally, the membership process of the Union of Liberian Associations in Norway (ULAN) into EFLA will be expedited. The committee will also work on resolving conflicts in other communities and revitalizing inactive national associations.

Mensah reiterated EFLA's dedication to holding the Liberian Government accountable for transparent resource utilization and office conduct. He pledged to engage constructively with the government to promote good governance, uphold the rule of law, and ensure accountable practices.

With Liberia approaching crucial presidential and legislative elections, Mensah emphasized the importance of free and fair elections for sustaining the country's hard-earned peace. He affirmed that EFLA would not tolerate any manipulation during the elections, warning that if such misconduct occurred, EFLA would lead a campaign for sanctions and the suspension of financial aid from development partners, particularly the European Union and the Swedish Development Agency (SIDA).

Mensah expressed gratitude to his sister, Mrs. Irene Jennijue Johnson Horace, for her support and guidance. His election and that of his team took place during EFLA's Annual General Assembly (AGA) in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. The event encompassed the AGA, general elections for new officers, sports activities, and celebrations for Liberia's 176th Independence Day.

The newly elected team members include Mrs. Mildred Towah Scholte as Vice President and Dr. Liana Ursa as Financial Secretary. They will lead the organization for the next two years, overseeing the election of the Secretary-General position as per EFLA's constitution.

Other high-profile guests at the event included Liberian Government officials and diaspora citizens, with Emmanuel Wettee delivering the keynote speech, and Mr. Samura Wolokollie, Deputy Minister for Finance and Development Planning, conducting the swearing-in ceremony. Minister Jeanine Cooper, Minister of Agriculture, served as Chief Launcher for EFLA's fundraising campaign in Liberia.

Other guests include Representative Thomas Fallah (District #5, Montserrado County), Amb. Youngar Telewoda- Ambassador accredited to Germany and The Nordic Countries, Amb. Isaac Nyenabo, Liberia’s Ambassador accredited to BENELUX Countries and the European Union, Mr. Paul Tate of the Liberian Mission in Geneva, Dr. Henry Peabody, a humanitarian, talk show host and EFLA Special Representative to the U.S. and Mr. Eddie Jarwolo, executive director of NAYMOTE, Partners for Democratic Development.