AGP Executive Report

Liberia Justice: A Monrovia jury convicted eight defendants in the country’s biggest human trafficking trial, finding them guilty of trafficking 57 victims after just 23 minutes of deliberation—testimony included beatings, torture, rape, and exploitation. Liberia Media & Governance: Press Union of Liberia President Julius Kanubah urged government officials to stop “attack dog” politics in public communication, backing more professional, transparent information sharing. Student Activism: University of Liberia SUP endorsed a July 17 protest and called for an independent investigation into VP Jeremiah Kpan Koung, while also planning a “March for Jobs and Justice” on July 26. Sports & Culture: George Weah condemned racist abuse aimed at French star Mbappé, calling for zero tolerance for discrimination in football. Arts & Entertainment: Liberia’s football governance hit a shockwave as the LFA expelled FC Fassell’s Cassell Kuoh for bypassing internal dispute rules. Global Arts/Spotlight: Dr. Rasha Kelej was named among ABCD Africa’s “100 Most Impactful Voices 2026,” highlighting healthcare and women’s empowerment.

Liberia Sports Governance: The Liberia Football Association (LFA) has expelled FC Fassell president and CEO Cassell Anthony Kuoh from all football activities after a disciplinary ruling tied to bypassing LFA dispute channels and seeking an injunction in civil court. Liberia Media & Rights: Liberia slipped to 58th out of 180 in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, scoring 64.54, as threats and intimidation of journalists remain concerns. Liberia Elections Communication: The National Elections Commission (NEC) held final consultations on its draft communications strategy, aiming to strengthen public confidence ahead of future polls. Liberia Anti-Corruption Legal Reform: The Justice Minister called for stronger Witness Protection and Whistleblower protections to boost Liberia’s fight against corruption and economic crimes. Liberia Arts & Culture Spotlight: Ghanaian casting leader Mawuko Kuadzi was elected to the Casting Society of America’s global board, adding another milestone for African representation in global entertainment. Fashion Feature: Ghanaian creative Julian Baisie turns philosophy, music and culture into wearable art through his Urban Cognative brand. Humanitarian Exhibition: Médecins Sans Frontières launched its “Keep Life Breathing” roving exhibition, spotlighting emergency care and Ebola awareness in the DRC.

Strait of Hormuz Attacks: Qatari LNG tanker Al Rekayyat sent distress signals after a drone strike near the engine room, while a Saudi-flagged tanker believed to be Wedyan reported structural damage after two separate vessel incidents—raising fears of escalation and renewed disruption for global shipping. Liberia Press Freedom: Liberia slipped to 58th out of 180 in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index, scoring 64.54, as threats and intimidation against journalists remain concerns. Liberian Football Governance: The Liberia Football Association expelled FC Fassell president Cassell Kuoh for taking a dispute to civil court instead of LFA/FIFA arbitration, triggering fresh debate inside the football community. Anti-Corruption Protections: Liberia’s Justice Minister called for stronger Witness Protection and Whistleblower reforms to help the country tackle corruption and economic crimes. Media & Accountability: Grand Bassa media leaders condemned “media extortion” as “dressed-up fraud,” urging journalists to serve the public interest. Arts & Community: Médecins Sans Frontières launched a “Keep Life Breathing” roving exhibition highlighting humanitarian crises and Ebola in the DRC. Youth & Skills: Bong County began a free two-month Digital Literacy and ICT training for 110 students across 22 high schools.

Strategic Church Funding: GCAC (Global Methodist Church of Liberia) unveiled a 2026–2030 plan with a proposed US$10.38M budget, prioritizing sustainable development, health and welfare, higher education, and school system support. Electoral Trust & Media: The NEC held final consultations on its Draft Communications Strategy, Policy and Protocol to boost transparency and public confidence ahead of future elections. Fishing Rights Under Pressure: LAFA condemned the arrest of eight artisanal fishermen by National Port Authority Police, saying they entered the port for safety during dangerous rainy-season conditions and should get emergency protection, not prosecution. Anti-Corruption Protections: Liberia’s Justice Minister called for stronger Witness Protection and Whistleblower reforms to safeguard people who expose corruption and serious crimes. Road Safety Alarm: A deadly Suakoko Highway crash—linked to speeding and dangerous overtaking—highlights Liberia’s growing road deaths and the urgent need for safer highways. Youth Skills Boost: 110 Bong students began a free two-month Digital Literacy and ICT training program aimed at jobs and entrepreneurship. Community Media Ethics: At a Grand Bassa media conference, speakers warned that media extortion is “dressed-up fraud,” urging truth and independence. Solar Streetlights in Bushrod: LURP commissioned 650 solar streetlights across Bushrod Island to improve visibility, safety, and nighttime activity.

Anti-Corruption & Accountability: Liberia’s Justice Minister Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh pushes reforms to the Witness Protection and Whistleblower laws, aiming to better safeguard people who speak out against corruption. Media & Public Trust: The NEC holds final consultations on its communications strategy, while Liberia’s Press Union leaders warn that media extortion is “dressed-up fraud” and call for stronger community-focused reporting. Arts & Culture for Community: Médecins Sans Frontières launches its “Keep Life Breathing” roving exhibition, bringing Ebola awareness and humanitarian stories to public spaces. Youth, Skills & Opportunity: UNDP and partners roll out LiYEPA to help young Liberians turn ideas into businesses. Sports & Entertainment: DStv Liberia ramps up World Cup watch parties across Monrovia, bringing the Round of 16 excitement to local communities. Local Development: LURP installs 650 solar streetlights across seven communities on Bushrod Island to improve safety and nighttime activity.

Court & Media Accountability: Sworn testimony in Liberia’s Criminal Court ‘A’ reportedly contradicted earlier media claims that Public Defenders Association President Cllr. Bestman Juah took bribes in a human trafficking case, with victim-witnesses allegedly making no mention of him or any “diluted charges.” Anti-Drug Justice: Liberia named and charged five individuals and a logistics company after a US$19M cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport, but public pressure continues as authorities promise imminent arrests. Press Freedom & Ethics: At a Grand Bassa Media Conference, B. Elias Shoniyin called media extortion “dressed-up fraud,” urging journalists to use their platforms for accountability. Youth Skills & Tech: In Bong County, 110 students from 22 schools began a free two-month Digital Literacy and ICT training. Humanitarian Arts: Médecins Sans Frontières launched its “Keep Life Breathing” roving exhibition, spotlighting humanitarian crises and Ebola in the DRC. Community Development: LURP commissioned 650 solar streetlights across Bushrod Island communities to improve safety and visibility.

World Cup in Liberia: DStv Liberia is turning FIFA 2026 knockout matches into community events, with watch parties across Monrovia and a promise to keep all 104 games live in high definition. Liberia Youth & Entrepreneurship: UNDP and partners launched LiYEPA, a six-month pilot to help young Liberians turn ideas into businesses through mentorship, tech and placement support. Public Accountability & Arts/Media: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency is reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen protections for people reporting corruption. Health & Community Safety: Phebe Hospital denied shutdown rumors, saying services continue while an internal investigation and labor dispute process runs. Governance & Security: Liberia’s Joint Security told lawmakers the country is being used as a transit route for international drug trafficking after the $19.2m Roberts airport cocaine seizure, with officials promising imminent arrests. Urban Upgrade: LURP commissioned 650 solar streetlights across seven Bushrod Island communities to improve night safety and deter crime.

Liberian Youth & Business: UNDP and partners launched LiYEPA, a six-month pilot to help young Liberians turn ideas into income through mentorship, tech and placement support. Community Arts & Culture: Riverdale’s community tapestry project is stitching local history into a public artwork for America’s 250th anniversary. Sports on Screens in Liberia: DStv Liberia is driving World Cup watch parties across Monrovia, bringing Round of 16 excitement to local communities. Inclusion & Education: Gonet Academy graduate Sweetie Brown received a public job offer from Liberia’s Gender Ministry after her graduation performance. Public Safety & Infrastructure: LURP commissioned 650 solar streetlights across seven Bushrod Island communities to improve night visibility and safety. Governance & Rights: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency begins reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen protections for reporters. National Security & Accountability: After a $19M airport cocaine seizure, Liberia’s Joint Security and police told the Senate arrests are imminent, as public pressure grows.

World Cup & Culture: Liberia’s football fans are getting the Round of 16 buzz through DStv watch parties across Monrovia, keeping the tournament’s energy local. Sports & Identity: As the U.S. marks its 250th birthday, coverage highlights how the American men’s team reflects immigrant roots and dual-national pride. Liberia Youth & Entrepreneurship: UNDP and partners launched LiYEPA, a six-month accelerator to help young Liberians turn ideas into businesses. Community Arts & History: Riverdale’s community tapestry project stitches local stories into a shared artwork for America’s 250th. Public Safety (Urban Arts/Infrastructure): LURP installed 650 solar streetlights across Bushrod Island to improve night visibility and security. Governance & Rights: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency begins reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen protections. Drug Fight (Public Concern): After a $19M airport cocaine seizure, Liberia’s Joint Security and police say arrests are imminent, while Senate hearings press for faster action. Health & Work: Phebe Hospital denies shutdown reports amid an internal investigation and labor dispute.

Liberia Youth & Entrepreneurship: UNDP and partners launched LiYEPA, a six-month pilot to help young Liberians turn ideas into businesses, with mentorship and placement support. World Cup in Monrovia: DStv is driving World Cup fever locally through community watch parties as Round of 32 games roll on. Sports Leadership: Liberia’s football scene gets a boost as the LFA ExCom reshuffles key youth and technical leadership roles. Public Health & Trust: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency begins reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen safeguards for people reporting corruption. Community Arts & History: Riverdale’s community tapestry project shows how creative workshops can preserve local stories—an inspiration for arts-led community building. Infrastructure for Safer Nights: LURP commissioned 650 solar streetlights across Bushrod Island communities to improve visibility, safety, and nighttime economic activity. Drug Bust Fallout: Liberia’s Joint Security and police face Senate pressure after a $19M airport cocaine seizure, with officials promising imminent arrests.

Liberian Youth & Entrepreneurship: UNDP and partners launched LiYEPA, a six-month pilot to help young entrepreneurs turn ideas into income through mentorship and placement support. Local Infrastructure & Safety: LURP installed 650 solar streetlights across 13.59 km on Bushrod Island to improve visibility, deter crime, and boost nighttime activity. Governance & Rights: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency begins reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen safeguards for people reporting corruption. Sports & Entertainment: DStv Liberia ramps up World Cup watch parties in Monrovia as the Round of 32 delivers more football fever for fans. Arts & Community Storytelling: Riverdale’s community tapestry project stitches local history into a shared artwork for America’s 250th anniversary. Public Health & Accountability: Authorities promise imminent arrests after a US$19M cocaine seizure at Roberts International Airport, as the Senate grills police over delays. Football Administration: Liberia Football Association ExCom reshuffles leadership for technical and youth development focus ahead of upcoming seasons.

World Cup Watch Parties: DStv Liberia brings all 104 FIFA World Cup matches in HD to Monrovia, ramping up community watch parties as the tournament hits the Round of 16. Youth Entrepreneurship: UNDP and partners launch LiYEPA, a six-month pilot to help Liberian young innovators turn ideas into businesses through mentorship and placement support. Sports Leadership: Tributes and celebrations mark FIBA Africa Zone 3 president Retired Col. Samuel Ahmedu’s 68th birthday, highlighting basketball growth across West Africa. Public Health & Trust: Liberia’s Witness Protection Agency begins reviewing the Whistleblower Protection Act to close legal gaps and strengthen safeguards for people reporting corruption. Community Safety: LURP installs 650 solar streetlights across 13.59 km on Bushrod Island to improve visibility, road safety, and deter crime. Drug Case Pressure: Liberia’s Joint Security and police tell senators the US$19.2M airport cocaine bust is being treated as a national security priority, with arrests promised soon. Hospital Rumors Denied: Phebe Hospital dismisses shutdown reports, saying services continue while an internal labor dispute investigation runs. Football Governance: Liberia Football Association ExCom meets to streamline committees and strengthen youth development ahead of upcoming seasons.

Airport Cocaine Case: Liberia’s police chief told senators arrests are “imminent” after a US$19M Roberts International Airport cocaine seizure, as lawmakers press for faster, clearer progress. Public Accountability: Government spokespeople also challenged accusers to submit credible information, warning against speculation as the investigation moves toward charges. Flooding Impacts: NDMA says heavy rains have affected more than 1,000 people, damaging homes, disrupting transport, and raising waterborne disease risks. Border Security & Training: Liberia Immigration graduated 424 newly trained officers, urging integrity and professionalism as the service modernizes. Arts & Culture Spotlight: Booker Washington Institute marked its 97th Founders’ Day with parades, music, and honors for alumni, including famed journalist Kenneth Y. Best. Media & Communications: The Civil Service Agency appointed award-winning broadcaster Varflay Kamara to strengthen communications and public relations. Youth & Peacebuilding: A youth-focused nonviolence institute is set to run at URI later this month, training peacemakers in conflict resolution.

Liberia Electoral Support: Liberia’s Ministry of Finance convened a Project Board Meeting for the Liberia Electoral Support Project, with NEC, UNDP, UN Women, the EU and other partners reviewing progress and discussing a possible extension—plus tighter coordination with the National Identification Registry ahead of 2029. Airport Cocaine Case: Liberia’s Joint Security told senators the country is being used as a drug transit route after the US$19.2m Roberts International Airport bust, while authorities urged patience and promised arrests after public scrutiny. Public Accountability: The government also challenged anyone alleging officials’ involvement in the drug case to submit credible information to local or international investigators. Flood Impacts: NDMA reported over 1,000 people affected by flooding from heavy rains, warning conditions could worsen and highlighting vulnerable groups. Youth & Peacebuilding: Leaders and partners reiterated youth as central to Liberia’s future, while a nonviolence institute in the US and a youth-focused program across Africa spotlight training, leadership and community action. Football & Culture: Liberia’s LFA ExCom met to streamline its technical and youth development leadership, and BWI marked its 97th Founders’ Day with parades, music and alumni honors.

Youth & Leadership: President Joseph Boakai and UNDP spotlight Liberia’s youth as “leaders of today,” urging job creation to move from talk to national priority. Airport Drugs & Accountability: Liberia’s Senate hears police assurances of imminent arrests after the US$19M Roberts International Airport cocaine bust, while government officials demand credible proof behind claims of official involvement. Sports Spotlight: George Weah picks Kylian Mbappé over Lamine Yamal as the better World Cup player, as football talk keeps heating up. Liberia Football Governance: The Liberia Football Association reshuffles its ExCom, co-opting Ivan G. Brown and Ousman Tall to strengthen technical and youth development. Public Safety: Liberia National Police intensifies highway traffic enforcement to curb deadly crashes. Flood Impacts: NDMA reports over 1,000 people affected by flooding, warning heavy rains could worsen conditions. Arts & Media Training: A Liberian journalist is selected for a West Africa environmental storytelling fellowship in Accra, boosting investigative skills and press safety.

Liberia Electoral Support: Liberia’s Ministry of Finance and Development Planning convened a Project Board Meeting for the Liberia Electoral Support Project, with NEC, UNDP, UN Women, the EU and other partners reviewing progress and discussing priorities to strengthen the electoral system ahead of the 2029 elections. Flood Response: NDMA says over 1,000 people have been affected by flooding in multiple parts of Liberia, with damage to homes, displacement, contaminated water risks and disrupted transport—while heavy rains are forecast to continue. Immigration Training: Liberia Immigration Service Commissioner General Elijah Rufus urged 424 newly trained officers to serve with integrity and professionalism as the agency pushes modernization and stronger border protection. Football Governance: LFA President Mustapha I. Raji reshaped the Liberia Football Association’s Executive Committee, co-opting Ivan G. Brown and Ousman Tall to sharpen technical and youth development focus. Port Security: Liberia’s National Port Authority intensified patrols and rehabilitation at the Freeport of Monrovia to curb illegal fishing and protect navigation infrastructure. Drug Case Pushback: Liberia’s government challenged anyone alleging public officials’ involvement in the US$19M Roberts International Airport drug seizure to provide credible evidence to authorities or international investigators. Road Safety: Liberia National Police stepped up highway traffic enforcement to reduce deadly crashes and provide roadside assistance. Sports Spotlight: Thelma Davies of Liberia placed second in the women’s 200m at the Boris Hanžeković Memorial in Zagreb as Shaunae Miller-Uibo won.