-To Strengthen Liberia’s Broken Systems
By Sampat JMB Kpakimah
Monrovia: Liberia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sara Beysolow Nyanti, has called on graduands of the United Methodist University (UMU) to take responsibility for fixing Liberia’s broken systems, by prioritizing integrity, competence, and accountability.
Serving as guest speaker at the University’s 21st Baccalaureate Ceremony on Sunday, March 29 2026, Minister Nyanti delivered a thought-provoking message under the theme, “Who Will Fix the System?”
She emphasized that effective systems require not only structures and policies but also capable and ethical individuals to sustain them.
“There are systems that need to be set up the right way with clear roles and defined authority,” she said. “But the system will not work if human capacity is poor.” The Foreign Affairs Minister stressed that leadership must go beyond elections, urging that those entrusted with responsibility must possess integrity. “You don’t just elect people you elect people with integrity,” she stated.
Highlighting what she described as “human infrastructure,” Minister Nyanti explained that the strength of any system depends on the quality of the individuals within it. “The system cannot stand on its own; it is made up of people,” she noted. Using practical examples, Ministee Nyanti illustrated the consequences of weak human capacity. She pointed out that even well-equipped hospitals cannot function effectively without skilled professionals to operate equipment such as X-ray machines.
Similarly, she warned that schools cannot deliver quality education if teachers lack dedication or engage in unethical practices like demanding money for grades. “There’s no opportunity where human infrastructure is poor. It lacks standards and people who are willing to fix the system,” she said.
The Foreign Affairs Minister concluded by urging graduates to embrace their role in national development, adding that educated individuals have a responsibility to contribute meaningfully to society.
“God needs educated people who will take responsibility,” Nyanti affirmed.
