Published: May 4, 2026
MONROVIA — The Press Union of Liberia (PUL) has announced that Aliou Mamadou Dia, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), will deliver the keynote address at Liberia’s official World Press Freedom Day celebration on Monday, May 4, 2026, in Kakata, Margibi County.
Dia is expected to speak on the global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” highlighting the role of independent media in fostering democratic governance and sustainable development.
The event, organized by the PUL, will bring together about 100 participants, including journalists, civil society actors, government officials and international partners. The celebration comes amid growing concerns about press freedom and democratic governance in Liberia, including alleged attacks on freedom of expression, disregard for the rule of law by political actors, and tensions surrounding the ongoing border dispute between Liberia and Guinea.
Observers warn that such challenges could undermine peace, human rights and national development. A high-level panel discussion will form part of the program, examining how press freedom can advance human rights and development in Liberia. Panelists include former PUL President Abraham Massaley, former PUL Secretary General Tom Winston Monboe, development practitioner Caroline Boah, Liberia Broadcasting System Deputy Director General for Administration Kadiatu Konteh-Brohiri, and Elias Shoniyin, Managing Director of Africa Development Management Associates.
Activities will continue on May 5 with a media-security dialogue featuring an opening address by Inspector General of Police Col. Gregory Colman. The dialogue will focus on strengthening collaboration between the media and security institutions, with emphasis on crisis communication and partnership. The second day will also include a conference on journalists’ welfare and safety, as well as the PUL National Media Awards, which recognize excellence and innovation in journalism from January to December 2025.
As part of the celebrations, the PUL will present its annual assessment of press freedom in Liberia, outlining key achievements, challenges and opportunities within the media sector over the past year. Founded in 1964, the Press Union of Liberia is the umbrella organization for journalists and media institutions in the country.
The union continues to advocate for press freedom, promote professional journalism standards, and protect the rights and welfare of media practitioners. Kakata, the host city for this year’s celebration, is located approximately 45 kilometers north of Monrovia.
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