Pledges Transparency, Inclusion, Reform
Monrovia, Liberia – The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Alumni Association of Liberia has officially welcomed a new leadership that pledges extensive reforms based on openness, inclusivity, and institutional change.
Government officials, JICA representatives, alumni, and stakeholders from the public and commercial sectors gathered for the induction ceremony on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Ministry of Education’s EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town.
Angie Tarr Nyakoon, President; Roger B. Abim-Karmon, Senior Vice President for Administration; Maminah G.C. Gaye, Vice President for Operations; Evelyna Kandakai, Secretary General; and Alfred Nyan Suah, Financial Secretary are among those elected and inducted.
In her inaugural speech, President Nyakoon pledged to build on the foundation set by her predecessors and lead the association into a more significant future while expressing gratitude for the trust placed in her leadership. “Our leadership will be guided by four key principles: inclusiveness, visibility, transparency and visionary transformation. Every member matter, and no one should feel disconnected from this association,” she declared.
In addition to enhancing mentorship opportunities for young professionals, Madam Nyakoon highlighted intentions to increase involvement across ministries, agencies, and the corporate sector. She promised to use forums, collaborations, and knowledge-sharing platforms to increase awareness of alumni contributions across the country.
Addressing governance, the incoming president promised members that the administration would be transparent and that decisions and financial information would be communicated clearly. “We are dedicated to maintaining trust, which is the foundation of effective leadership.”
Albert C. Zorgbe, the departing president, highlighted the association’s achievements during the previous three years and characterized the change as both historic and emotional. From a mostly inactive base in 2022 to more over 200 active members on its communication platforms today, he observed a notable increase in membership involvement.
Zorgbe also revealed the association’s better financial situation, citing balances in bank and mobile money accounts as evidence of members’ renewed dedication. In remembrance of former president Amanda Zereubo, who he characterized as a great loss to the organization, the assembly observed a minute of silence in a sombre moment. As he transferred leadership and urged the incoming administration to maintain accountability and transparency, Zorgbe pledged continued support.
The JICA Alumni Association of Liberia, which has been in existence for 60 years and is composed of professionals trained under programs funded by Japan, is progressively contributing to the nation’s development through talent transfer, policy impact, and cross-sector involvement.
Reported by: Prince Saah
