-Calls for Government Budget Support
MONROVIA – The Chief Executive Officer of the Renaissance Consulting and Development Institute, Inc. (ReCDI), Ambassador John M. Gray, has commended Commissioner Edward Horton Lahai for what he described as exemplary and transformative leadership within the Township of Oldest Congo Town.
Speaking during a community outreach engagement organized by ReCDI under its Community Service and Peacebuilding Program, Ambassador Gray praised Commissioner Lahai for delivering outstanding municipal services in a relatively short period. He noted that the Commissioner has proven himself a servant leader, working alongside a resilient and passionate team to ensure the township remains functional and progressive.
Ambassador Gray highlighted several strategic initiatives rolled out under Commissioner Lahai’s stewardship, including a Specialized Skills and Development Training Program, capacity-building through local and international scholarships and exchange programs, progressive community development initiatives, youth empowerment through the Township’s Youth Focal Office, High School Academic Excellence Awards, routine joint cleanup campaigns, and the provision of essential educational materials to schools and students.
He further acknowledged the township’s commitment to waste collection in densely populated areas, drainage maintenance, and the decongestion of the SKD Boulevard Junction through professional parking management by the Township Taskforce—despite significant logistical constraints, including limited holding sites and transfer stations.
However, Ambassador Gray cautioned that the lack of adequate financial and logistical resources threatens to impede these key programs. He made a passionate appeal to the Liberian Government and the National Legislature for direct budgetary support to the Municipal Government of Oldest Congo Town to sustain and expand its innovative initiatives.
“With the growing population, which we estimate to be around 150,000 inhabitants since the 2022 National Population Census, the demand for municipal services has increased significantly,” Ambassador Gray said. “Without the required resource mobilization, implementing the Local Government Act and the ordinances that guide people-centered development will remain a challenge.”
He urged residents to support the township leadership and contribute meaningfully to community development, reminding them that “life is about legacy.” ReCDI, Ambassador Gray reaffirmed, remains committed to partnering with community leaders and residents to deliver training and community service programs aimed at fostering sustainable development.
In response, community dwellers commended ReCDI for advocating on their behalf and joined the call for increased budgetary support. They pledged to serve as ambassadors in their respective communities, complementing the efforts of the Township Government. “The interactions really enlightened us regarding community development,” a cross-section of residents remarked.
