Speaker Koffa Rallies Support for Liberian Children, Commits US$12K for Children's Dialogue Resource Center Construction in Bomi - FrontPageAfrica
Source: Front Page Africa
Author: Gerald C. Koinyeneh
DEMEH, Bomi County - House Speaker Cllr. J. Fonati Koffa has emphasized the need for increased support for the children of Liberia to better prepare them for future leadership roles.
By Gerald C. Koinyeneh - [email protected]
Speaking at the 16 anniversary event of the Children's Dialogue held in Demeh, Bomi County, Speaker Koffa urged a collective effort in nurturing human capacity, highlighting the importance of initiatives like the Children's Dialogue.
"Liberia, despite its age, lags behind many countries due to a lack of human capacity. Our ability to develop our people is crucial, and this is exactly what initiatives like the Children's Dialogue aim to achieve," stated Speaker Koffa.
Addressing the children directly, he emphasized their importance and the collective responsibility to support and mentor them for future leadership roles. He commended the efforts of veteran journalist Varney Gbessay, who founded the Children's Dialogue in 2008 as a platform to mentor young Liberians and amplify their voices nationally and internationally.
The Children's Dialogue, through its television program, has mentored numerous children who have gone on to become leaders and scholars, some serving in government roles and others pursuing higher education locally and abroad.
To mark its 16th anniversary, the Children's Dialogue organized a vibrant program in Demeh to raise funds for a resource center in the town. Speaker Koffa, expressing his delight at being invited, made a personal donation of US$2,000 and pledged an additional US$10,000 from his colleagues to support the construction project.
Demeh holds significance as the hometown of renowned Liberian author, folklorist, and poet Bai T. Moore, whose legacy Speaker Koffa honored during the event.
Speaker Koffa was accompanied by fellow lawmakers Reps. Samuel Enders (District #6, Montserrado County) and Bernard Benson (District #17, Montserrado County), both of whom pledged their support to the Children's Dialogue initiative.
The children, along with founder Varney Gbessay, expressed gratitude to Speaker Koffa for attending despite personal challenges. Christiana S. Tamba, the Children's spokesperson, praised Speaker Koffa's commitment to the development of Liberian youth, describing him as a true national leader who embodies hope for the future and demonstrates unwavering support for initiatives like the Children's Dialogue.
"Today, words are inadequate to express the exceptional joy that have filled our hearts because of your presence here today, upon hearing the tragic fire incidence that happened to your home, we felt deeply sad and worried that you will not be part of this event," said Ms. Tamba.
"But to our outmost surprise, we received a confirmation message from the office confirming your attendance here at the program, and true to your words, you are here today. This shows that you are a true national leader. It proves your desire to see the development of kids in Mama Liberia. Even though you have not directly interacted with us before, your actions towards the children's dialogue shows that you believe in us, and we have a leader that cannot disappoint us despite any circumstances. you have given us hope as a leader and father."
