Government is not in Charge of Creating Jobs.
Monrovia, Liberia – Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu, Liberia minister of youth and sports, has clarified that the government’s mission is to foster an atmosphere that promotes employment in the private sector, not to generate jobs.
The Minister said this on Monday when Radio Entertainment Liberia and the Ministry signed a LRD$2.5 million sponsorship agreement to support the 2023–2024 National County Sports Meet. Those who criticize the Unity Party-led administration for not creating employment in its first year are misinterpreting the government’s function, according to Bangalu.
“The government is not in charge of creating jobs; in fact, it is not its responsibility. Bangalu said, “Anyone who claims otherwise does not comprehend the government’s mandate.” He did stress that a primary goal is still to create an atmosphere that supports employment prospects.
Bangalu cited the National County Sports Meet as an illustration of a government program that provides youths with temporary employment possibilities. “For many Liberians, the County Meet is about economic empowerment, not just about playing football and kickball.”
On January 12, 2025, the 2023–2024 National County Sports Meet will formally begin. Games will be held at Robertsport (Grand Cape Mount County), Gbarnga (Bong County), Zwedru (Grand Gedeh County), and Greenville (Sinoe County).
Minister Bangalu reassured the public that everything is proceeding according to plan and restated that the County Meet is a forum for national cohesion and economic development rather than just a sporting event.
The “Man or Woman of the Match” winners in the football and kickball divisions will receive cash awards from Radio Entertainment Liberia as part of the sponsorship. The champions of the quarterfinals, semifinals, and grand finals will get LRD$20,000, while the winners of each preliminary round will receive LRD$5,000.
Minister Bangalu described the cash rewards as a way for young people to gain economic empowerment and praised the betting-by-radio platform for its noteworthy contribution. “For many of these young people, winning LRD$20,000 at this point is life-changing,” he stated.
Reindorf Cletus Haligah, CEO of Radio Entertainment Liberia, said he was happy to be working with the country’s biggest athletic event and promised even more contributions in the future.
