The Government of Liberia through the Ministry of Planning and Economic Affairs and the Governance Commission has launched a nationwide stakeholder's consultation meeting on national vision. The exercise is to enable Liberians take ownership of their country's future.

The first in the series of consultation was held Wednesday, July 28, 2010 at the Paynesville Townhall with the Civil Service Organizations and Religious community.

Former Liberian interim President Dr. Amos Sawyer, in his presentation declared that genuine reconciliation among Liberians is portal to Liberia's national visioning process. The Governance Commission Chairman expressively noted that one of the major Socio-Political goals of national visioning is having a strong sense of patriotism.

He called on Liberians to develop a strong sense of citizenship, unity and cohesion. "We should consolidate institutions of good governance, reduce disparities and marginalization and ensure equity through policies of "growth with development and strengthen commitment to moral, ethical and accountable governance as obligation of government, private sector and citizens," said Dr. Sawyer.

The learned Professor urged that in developing a new Liberian vision and mission, the people should transcend competing historical identities: "Americo-Liberian" or "Congo" versus "indigenous" or "native" and develop sense of common or shared identity.

Also making presentation on the prospect of economic growth in Liberia, Minister of Planning and Economic Affairs Amara Konneh said there is a need for a national vision and long term plan for growth and poverty alleviation in Liberia. He challenged his kinsmen to join in the effort to shape Liberia's destiny. "Together we can develop Liberia and create wealth for everybody," he told the audience.

Minister Konneh noted that the current environment of sustained peace, visionary leadership and political stability presents a unique opportunity for Liberia to transform from a low income to a middle income status by 2030.

The visioning consultation meeting with stakeholders which is to enable Liberians take ownership of the process continues Thursday, July 29, 2010 with the interest groups and professional organizations. Students and youth groups and political parties will converge on Friday.

The consultation continues Monday with the National Legislature. On Tuesday, the Ministry of Planning and the Governance Commission will take the consultation meeting to Gbarnga, Bong County where county officials including superintendents and traditional council will meet to discuss the future of Liberia.