By: Akoi
The Communications Director of the Center for National Documents and Records Agency (CNDRA), Kaipee Luther Newray, has called on the Government of Liberia to prioritize sound records management practices as a critical tool to guarantee public access to information and strengthen transparency in governance.
Mr. Newray made the call during a presentation at the Freedom of Information (FOI) Awareness, Compliance, and Records Management Training held on Wednesday, June 11, and Friday, June 13, 2025, at the MICAT Charles Gbenyon Press Hall in Monrovia.
The two-day training brought together key representatives from 20 Ministries, Agencies, and Commissions (MACs), including principal deputies, heads of finance or procurement, records officers, IT personnel, and public affairs heads.
In his presentation, Mr. Newray emphasized the importance of effective records management in the collection, processing, storage, and preservation of public records. He described proper documentation practices as the bedrock of transparency and good governance, enabling informed decision-making, conflict resolution, efficient service delivery, and compliance with regulations.
“Good records management is essential not just for institutional efficiency but also for protecting the integrity of public data and ensuring access to information for future generations,” he said.
Mr. Newray outlined several recommendations for strengthening records management across public institutions, including, the development and implementation of a comprehensive national records management policy; appointment of records officers in all public institutions by the National Archives
Director Newray is further requesting the government to enhance collaboration between archives, IT, and legal departments, and regular updates to records management systems to adapt to emerging challenges and technologies.
The training was organized by the Independent Information Commission (IIC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism (MICAT), CNDRA, BudgIT Liberia, and SATAC Liberia. It focused on building the capacity of MACs to understand, interpret, and effectively implement the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act.
Participants gained valuable insights into their compliance responsibilities under the FOI Law and learned best practices for managing institutional records to support accountability and public service excellence.
