WASH Legislative Caucus Highlights Urgent Need for Stronger Investment in Rural Services Following ACDP Assessment Visit

Hon. Thomas A. Goshua, II, Chairman of WASH Caucus engaged project beneficiaries in Gbarpolu County

The WASH Legislative Caucus of Liberia has released key findings from its recent oversight and citizen–engagement visit to project sites under the Accelerated Community Development Programme (ACDP). The visit, conducted across selected rural communities in Gbarpolu, Rivercess, Bong, Nimba and Lofa Counites, was conducted from November 10-22, 2025, and provided lawmakers with firsthand insight into the progress, challenges, and impact of ongoing ACDP interventions, particularly in the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector.

Senator Wellington Geevon Smith engaged beneficaries in Rivercess County

The assessment, which was led by the Chairperson, Hon. Thomas A. Goshua, II. And Head of the WASH Legislative Caucus Secretariat, Mr. Timothy Kpeh revealed that while ACDP-funded infrastructure and social service initiatives are improving the lives of vulnerable populations, significant gaps remain in community water systems, sanitation services, and operational sustainability. other members of the assessment team include: Senator Wellington Geevon Smith of Rivercess, and Senator Bouto Kanneh of Gbarpolu County.

Senator Bouto Kanneh signed WASH pledge card in Bopolu City and presented to the Caucus Chairman

Lawmakers engaged directly with local leaders, beneficiaries, and implementing partners to understand these challenges and identify practical solutions.

During town hall meetings, communities expressed appreciation for the ACDP’s impact, including the rehabilitation of water points, construction of public infrastructure, and provision of livelihood support. However, they emphasized the need for consistent functionality of water systems, stronger local ownership, and improved coordination among service providers.

The WASH Legislative Caucus underscored three urgent national priorities:

1. Increased financing for the WASH sector, especially for rural communities.

2. Strengthened accountability and monitoring of ACDP interventions.

3. Enhanced collaboration among government institutions, development partners, and local authorities.

Hon. Stanley Kamara, Head of UNDP/ACDP provides overview of the project in Bopolu City

In conclusions, the Caucus reaffirmed its commitment to championing increased budgetary allocation for ACDP and the WASH sector in the 2026 National Budget. The Secretariat will present the full ACDP Oversight Report and recommendations to the Leadership of the Legislature and national partners.

Local leaders provide progress report to the WASH Caucus Chair during the visit

The WASH Legislative Caucus calls on all stakeholders, government, donors, civil society, and communities, to work collectively toward ensuring equitable access to safe water, improved sanitation, and sustainable rural development for all Liberians.