Saturday, 19 October 2024

 


GoL Must Meet the AU 10% Funding Benchmark for the Ministry of Agriculture

In my doctoral dissertation, I argue and recommend that the African Union “(AU) should focus on agricultural productivity, value addition and provision of safe drinking water to address the extreme hunger, malnutrition, water , hunger, and poverty issues on the continent” (Kaydor, 2024, p.1). The Republic of Liberia, Africa’s first independent Republic, has about 5.2 million citizens (LISGIS, 2023), the country suffers from hunger and malnutrition after 177 years of independence. The Liberia Agriculture Census (2024) was recently conducted using digital technology for the first time. The census covered all Agriculture-related activities such as crop production, livestock rearing, forestry, poultry, and Aqua Culture (LIGIS, 2023). Quality data in the agricultural sector is vital for informing effective public policy making and accelerating efforts toward sustainable development within Liberia.

The agriculture sector is the primary livelihood of about 40 percent of Liberia’s population (World Bank, 2021). It accounts for about 36 percent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (World Bank, 2022). This sector not only provides income for a large portion of households engaged in rice, cassava, rubber, oil palm, cocoa, sugarcane production among others, but also it is a key to addressing the pressing food security and nutrition challenge in the country where nearly 40% of the population suffers from undernutrition or malnutrition as of 2022 (The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World, 2023). The 50x2030 Initiative as it is named, seeks to close the Agricultural Data Gap and it is a multi-agency partnership amongst the World Bank, FAO, and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) for data smart agriculture to strengthen national agricultural data systems in fifty countries by year 2030. The program assists countries to produce agricultural survey data necessary to monitor international, regional and or national data (Agenda 2063; CAAD, 2003). The GoL officially launched the 50x2030 Initiative in May 2023 in partnership with FAO, World Bank, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) among others.

The current Liberian Government led by H.E. President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has Agriculture as one of its national development priorities. The campaign mantra  that brought the government to power, The ARREST Agenda, has an “A” that stands for Agriculture at the beginning. In a country where about 40 percent of the population lives on agriculture, there is no doubt that the government needs to invest in the sector to be able to address the acute unemployment question and spur an inclusive economic growth in the country. Agricultural revolution needs to be taken seriously and quantum investment needs to be done in the sector led by the Ministry of Agriculture (MoA). However,  the 2024 budget for the Agriculture Sector in Liberia is US$8.83million that is 1.2%. This falls short of the requirement of the African/Union’s requirement as enshrined in the “Maputo Declaration” developed in 2003. The Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) servs as the framework for action for agricultural transformation across Africa since 2003. As an AU initiative, CAADP supports member states in increasing investment and productivity in the agricultural sector. The aim is to achieve agricultural growth rates of more than 6 per cent as a means of promoting food security and economic development.

The AU commits to Transforming African Agriculture by 2025. This timeline coincides with Liberia’s new budget cycle for 2025. The CAADP is an Agenda 2063 continental initiative that aims to help African countries eliminate hunger and reduce poverty by raising economic growth through agriculture-led development. Through the CAADP, African governments agreed to allocate at least 10% of national budgets to agriculture and rural development, and to achieve agricultural growth rates of at least 6% per annum. Underlying these investment commitments are targets for reducing poverty and malnutrition, increasing productivity and farm incomes, and improving the sustainability of agricultural production and use of natural resources. It also supports countries to enhance resilience to climate variability through development of disaster preparedness policies and strategies, early warning response systems and social safety nets.

Some national policymakers have argued that Liberia has several actors in the agricultural sector and that the AU requirement should not only apply to the MoA. Even with such argument, the Agriculture Sector is 1.2% of the original National budget (MFDP, 2024, P.XV). However, the AU requirement is specific. It applies to Agriculture Ministries on the continent. If the government wants to argue that donors are many in this sector, it must allocate at least 10% to the Agriculture Sector in the National Budget. Now that the GoL is about to begin the official formulation of its 2025 National Budget by the National Legislature in November after the submission of the draft at the end of October 2024 by MFPD, it is expected that the Boakai led Government will allocate not less than 10 percent of the national budget to the Ministry of Agriculture specifically as required by the African Union or simply allocate 10% of the budget to Agriculture Sector in general.

President Boakai, though is not an agriculturist, spent most part of his life and career in the agricultural sector. Therefore, It is no surprise that Agriculture became the first letter in his ARREST Agenda. While donors continue to heavily invest in this sector, the  government needs to match such support and harness same with national budgetary allocation. This investment in Agriculture could ensure food sufficiency in Liberia, a country with a suitable climate and soil for agriculture. Donors could scale down their support  at any time, but the Government needs to take full ownership of this sector. The 2024 National Agricultural Development Plan (NADP) developed by the MoA is a welcomed initiative, though it excludes other sectors like sugarcane. According to that Plan, Liberia needs not less than US$717. Million for the Ministry to meet government’s desired target in the agricultural sector over its six years governance period.

AS I SEE IT, the Government of Liberia  must allocate a minimum of 10 Per cent of its national budget to the Ministry of Agriculture and or the Agriculture Sector to meet the African Union requirement. There is no need for excuses as the time is now.

About the Author: Prof. Tom Kaydor, Jr. holds a PhD from the Department of Government and European Studies, the New University, Republic of Slovenia where he researched International Development and Diplomacy (with Security Aspects). His dissertation topic was ‘Reconceptualizing Africa’s Regional Integration for Peace and Sustainable Development.’ He earned his second master’s degree as a Master of Public Policy (MPP) specialized in Development Policy or Development Economics with Distinction from the Crawford School of Economics and Government (now the Crawford School of Public Policy), Australian National University, Canberra, Australia on 17 December 2014. He obtained his first master’s degree as Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations (Highest Distinction) in 2009 and Bachelor of Arts (BA) Magna Cum Laude in Political Science in 2003 from the University of Liberia where he currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the IBB Graduate School of International Studies. He also holds a Diploma in Leading Economic Growth from the Kennedy Graduate School, Harvard University, USA; and he holds other diplomas and certificates in professional fields. Prof. Kaydor is equally an Adjunct Professor of Development Studies at the AME University Graduate School. Dr. Kaydor is an evidence-based researcher and a published author. One can reach him via (kaydorth@ul.edu.lr or +231777027180/+231555266613).


Saturday, 12 October 2024

 



AS I SEE IT: by Prof. Tom Kaydor, Jr.; PhD.

The Liberian Government Must Fund the Liberian Immigration Service (LIS) Training

The Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), formerly the Bureau of Immigration & Naturalization (BIN) was founded in 1855. LIS is charged with the primary responsibility to implement and enforce the Alien and Nationality Law of Liberia. The bureau or agency has 2,081 immigration officers. They are officers deployed 48 official border crossings points out of a total of 178 national entry points around the Republic of Liberia. This means that about 130 entry points are left unattended in Liberia.

Besides the Alien and Nationality Law, LIS is also governed by the Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, the ECOWAS Protocols on Free Movements of persons, goods and services within the sub-region, international conventions, and laws, among other instruments. The Bureau has the statutory mandate to safeguard and protect the borders and boundaries (air, land, and sea) of Liberia against the illegal entry of aliens into the country. The Bureau also screens and examines travel documents; admits aliens at sea, air, and land borders (ports of entry); grants all aliens resident status and engages in border management and control (https://lis.gov.lr/about, 2024).

As its Vision, LIS envisages to cultivate professionalism, effectiveness, and international outlook in achieving regional and international recognition (Ibid.). Its mission is to contribute to security and socio-economic development of Liberia by facilitating international travel and regulating entry, exit, residency, and citizenship; and to improve border structure, data collection, analysis, and dissemination; using technology, LIS controls immigration intelligence gathering and law enforcement to the benefit of the people of the Republic of Liberia. LIS also institutionalizes international best practices and sets up clear rules in a coherent manner that is applicable and promotes gender balance as required.’ LIS operates its own Training Academy in Lofa county, Liberia (Ibid.).

After the Joseph N. Boakai led government took office in January 2024, the Civil Service Agency (CSA) announced the retirement of 318 LIS Officers in accordance with the employment policy of the Republic. Based on this, LIS announced a new recruitment to replace the officers that will retire. About 9,043 applicants applied to join LIS to replace the would-be retirees. According to LIS boss, “8,109 applicants sat the aptitude test, 6,309 applicants passed and made it to the physical examination, the second layer of the recruitment process. About 2,800 candidates successfully enrolled into the medical test that was the final stage of the recruitment process.

About 1,900 applicants successfully passed the medical exams but “only 500 of this batch of applicants have been selected for the training”. The training will begin on “14th October 2024 but the Government of Liberia has not provided budgetary allocation to LIS for this training” (Zargo, 2024). The agency was requested by the National Government to shift its original 2024 budget to accommodate the cost that had no allocation as the training was unforeseen. Why should the Government not allot money to fund this initiative by finding monies from other sources in the national budget for such expedient and necessary national training? How can the Government leave almost 130 entry points of Liberia unprotected? What is more important than the security of Liberia’s borders? The goal of any state is to protect its National Interest (this means the provision of security for all citizens and aliens and the provision for the wellbeing of such people). How could the Government leave LIS on its own to use her 2024 budget lines for such training that was unbudgeted for other things rather than finding the money from other sources to fund the training?

As I SEE IT, the Government of Liberia must take full responsibility for the LIS training process. It must entirely fund this process. In fact, all the successful candidates from the vetting process must be trained and employed to secure all our entry points. Training only 500 further limits the capacity of LIS. Therefore, the government needs to prioritize this training as a national interest project. Alternatively, LIS Administration should find innovative ways as the agency responsible for such herculean task to train all the 1,900 successful applicants and employ them at the end of the training to be deployed and appropriately secure all of Liberia’s 178 border points.

About the Author: Prof. Tom Kaydor, Jr. holds a PhD from the Department of Government and European Studies, the New University, Republic of Slovenia where he researched International Development and Diplomacy (with Security Aspects). He completed his PhD dissertation and defended it in 2023. His dissertation topic was ‘Reconceptualizing Africa’s Regional Integration for Peace and Sustainable Development.’ He earned his second master’s degree as a Master of Public Policy (MPP) specialized in Development Policy or Development Economics with Distinction from the Crawford School of Economics and Government (now the Crawford School of Public Policy), Australian National University, Canberra, Australia on 17 December 2014. He obtained his first master’s degree as Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations (Highest Distinction) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) Magna Cum Laude in Political Science from the University of Liberia where he currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the IBB Graduate School of International Studies. He also holds a Diploma in Leading Economic Growth from the Kennedy Graduate School, Harvard University, USA; and he holds other diplomas and certificates in professional areas. Prof. Kaydor is equally an Adjunct Professor of Development Studies at the AME University Graduate School. Dr. Kaydor is an evidence-based researcher and a published author. One can reach him via (kaydorth@ul.edu.lr or +231777027180/+231555266613).

 https://thenewdawnliberia.com/the-liberian-government-must-fund-the-liberian-immigration-service-lis-training/

     

Monday, 23 September 2024

Prof. Tom Kaydor CV



Prof. Thomas Kaydor, Jr.; PhD

Cooper Farm, Rehab Community, Paynesville City, Republic of Liberia

Emails: kaydorth@ul.edu.lr ; thkaydor@gmail.com; Mobile: +231-777 027 180; +231555266613

 I.                    EDUCATION:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   September                2023

PhD: International Development and Diplomatic Studies (with Security Aspects): Department of Government and European Studies, New University, Republic of Slovenia

Dissertation Title: Reconceptualizing Africa’s Regional Integration for Peace and Sustainable Development.

Dissertation Supervisor: Prof. Dr. Gorazd Justinek.

                                                                                                                                                                       Dec. 2014

Master of Public Policy (MPP) in Development Policy (with Distinction): Crawford School of Economics and Government (now school of Public Policy), The Australian National University, Canberra, Australia.

                                                                                                                                                                                    April 2009

Master of Arts (MA) in International Relations (High Distinction): Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida Graduate School of International Affairs, University of Liberia, Capitol Hill, Monrovia

                                                                                                                                                                       May 2003

Bachelor of Arts (B.A) Political Science (Magna Cum Laude) with Minor in History and Elective in Mass Comm: Liberia College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Liberia, Capitol Hill, Monrovia, Liberia

 Other Academic qualifications:                                                                                                       

Leading Economic Growth; Post Graduate Diploma (2020): Harvard Kennedy School, Harvard University, USA.

Post Graduate Diploma (2012): Contemporary Diplomacy and Negotiation, Foreign Service Academy (FSA), Islamabad, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.

Post Graduate Diploma (2010): International Programme Management & Strategic Planning for NGOs, Galilee International Management Institute (formerly Galilee College); Israel. A professional strategic planner trained in 2009 at the Galilee College (now the Galilee International Management Institute). Has developed the strategic plans for not less than 8 National NGOs in Liberia. Has done strategic planning for the UN, particularly for UNCTs, IAPTs and OMTs in Liberia and Ethiopia.

Certificate (2009): Human Rights Based Approach & Results Based Management, UN System Staff College, Turin, Italy.

Diploma (2013): International Development and Cooperation, Academy for International Business Officials, Beijing, PRC.

ABC Certificate (2009): Professional Writing Skills for Business and Administration, Alan Borman Communications, UK.  

High School Diploma and WAEC Certificate (1993), St. Francis High School, City, Maryland County, Liberia.

 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS:

Certificate (2019)-Ethics and Integrity at UNICEF; Certificate (2019)-BSAFE, UNICEF; Certificate (2008)-Prince II Written Exam, Programme Management, UNDP Liberia; Certificate (2005)-TOT Basic Psychosocial Skills & Training for Transformation, Mother Pattern College of Health Sciences; Certificate (2009)-Training in UN Human Resource Management and General Service Staff Salary Survey, Congo Brazzaville; Certificate-Atlas (2008/9)-UNDP Financial Management Studies, UNDP-Liberia. Certificate (2008)-Prince II Online Examination, Programme Management, UNDP-Liberia; Certificate (2008)- Advanced Security in the Field, UNDP-Liberia; Certificate (2008), Basic Security in the Field, UNDP-Liberia; Certificate (2008)-Gender Journey, Thinking Outside the Box, UNDP-Liberia; Certificate (2008)-UN Prevention of Harassment & Sexual Harassment & Abuse of Authority in workplace, UNDP Liberia; Certificate (2003)-Peace Building & Programme Management (TOT), RECEIVE Inc. Liberia; Certificate (2000): CHEALE Vocational Institute, Computer Operation, and networking.

 II. EXPERIENCE:

a.       Academic and Research

1.       Assistant Professor, IBB Graduate School of International Studies (January 2016-Present)

Fulltime Faculty lecturing 1) Approaches to the Study of Political Theory (POSC 505); 2) Social Science Research Methods (POSC 509); 3) Quantitative Political Analysis, and Public Policy Processes (POSC 508); 4) Foreign Policy Formulation and Implementation (POSC 602); and 5) Approaches to the Study of Comparative Government and Politics (POSC 507), and 6) Political Economy (POSC 510). Develop and conduct evidence-based Research, prepare lecture materials, and present lectures; supervise graduate theses; supervise students’ thesis proposals and final thesis; grade students’ assignments and exams and submit final grades; and conduct community service initiatives and serving as a Reviewer for 6 international Journals including A. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), ISSN 2454-6186. DOI Number:10.47772/IJRISS; B. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), ISSN 2321-2705, DOI Number: 10.51244/IJRSI; C. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Applied Science (IJRIAS), ISSN 2454-6194, DOI Number: 10.51584/IJRIAS; D. International Journal of Latest Technology in Engineering, Management & Applied Science, ISSN 2278-2540, DOI: 10.51583/IJLTEMAS; E. the International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy (IJDE); and F. the Global Scientific and Academic Research Journal of Economics, Business and Management (GSAR).

2.       Adjunct Professor, AME University Graduate School, Monrovia, Liberia (2018-present):

Serve as Part-time Graduate Faculty at AME University Graduate Program: Convene courses including 1) Foundations of Economic Development (MAID 602); 2) Global Institutions and Development (MAID 604); 3) International Development Planning (MAID 606); 4) International Trade and Development (MAID 710) 5) International Economic Relations (MFSL 606); Supervise graduate students’ research proposals and final theses; administer exams and submit final grades.

 3.       Academic Coordinator, University of Liberia Graduate Studies, and Research Programme (2020-October 2022):

Chaired Graduate Thesis Review Committee; prepared and submitted reports on Program Directors and students and Faculty; developed graduate programs academic policies and thesis research guide; prepared academic policies required for the smooth operation of all the Graduate Schools; attended meetings, including but not limited to the Academic Coordination Committee, Faculty Senate, Graduate Studies Directors, and Graduate Council; led academic policy-making and reform processes; assigned thesis advisors; Served on University convocations Committee, Academic Coordination Committee, the Faculty Senate, faculty and students orientations; introduced Turnitin software for first ever thesis online review and plagiarism check at the University of Liberia; reported to the President, Vice President for Graduate Studies and Research, the Vice President for Academic Affairs, of the University of Liberia. Developed the concept of opening and running an interdisciplinary academic journal at the University of Liberia graduate School.

 4.       Associate Editor: Encyclopaedia of the Sustainable Development Goals (2019-2021):

Transforming the “World We Want"-Volume 16. Was responsible for proposing themes and edited all 21 essays or articles for publication in volume 16, focused on SDG16. Goal 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for sustainable development, provide access to justice for all, and build effective, accountable, and inclusive institutions at all levels. The "Encyclopaedia of the Sustainable Development Goals: Transforming the World We Want" was produced by the World Sustainable Development Research and Transfer Centre and the Inter-University Sustainable Development Research Programme, published by Springer, as part of the award-winning “World Sustainability Series".

b.       United Nations (UN)

1.       National Consultant for the Development of National Roadmap for the Protection of Street Children in Liberia (February 2022 to February 2023), UNICEF Liberia:

Developed research method/design and conducted a nationwide study using a mixed research methods process to develop an informed and objective roadmap on children living in street situations in Liberia; developed and costed the first ever right based and results focused national roadmap on protecting children living in street situations in Liberia for UNICEF  and the Government of Liberia.

 2.       Volunteer Engagement Specialist (National Consultant), UNICEF (March 2019-March 2021):

Developed the Volunteer Engagement Initiative (VEI) project for UNICEF Liberia. Managed and coordinated 1,500 National Volunteers under the project; led implementation of the VEI; mobilized volunteers, recruited, trained, orientated, supported, and retained them to deliver health, education, and protection services in communities across the country in support of UNICEF KPIs; monitored, evaluated, and reported on all deliverables of the Project; documented best practices and lessons learned; and mobilized young people to build a strong online network that advocates for child(ren) rights to education, health, and protection. Completed a mapping exercise for existing youth groups and volunteer movements in Liberia; developed integrated strategies for youth and volunteer engagement, development, and networking; organized the first ever VEI Working Group in UNICEF Liberia; developed an annual work plan for the volunteer engagement strategy; and completed the rapid assessment of capabilities and capacity gaps of existing volunteers and youth groups in the Republic of Liberia.

 3.       UN Common Services and Coordination Advisor, UNDP Ethiopia (2010-  2011):

Effectively Coordinated the UN System/UN Country Team (UNCT), Operations Management Team (OMT), and donors’ activities with the Government of Ethiopia. Supported strategic planning, led the rollout and implementation, monitoring, and review of the Delivering as One (DaO) and One UN Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF), and Common Services. Increased trust and confidence in UN and Resident Coordinator System; cut transaction costs and promoted UN reform through Joint Programming and the DaO initiative. Promoted assessment, planning and implementation of Common Services and Harmonized Business Practices and UN reform for the UNCT and UNECA. Prepared talking points, briefing/background notes, speeches, and UNCT/OMT work plans. Prepared analytical UNCT reports to UNDG, DOCO and UN Secretary General. Conducted assessments, workshops, seminars, led the UNDAF/One Program Mid Term Reviews, etc. for the UNCT, Inter-agency Programming Team (IAPT) and the OMT Ensured donors, UN and host government partnership and cooperation. Developed/implemented resource mobilization initiatives.

 4.       UN Coordination Analyst, UNDP Liberia (2007-2010):

Effectively coordinated the UNCT in preparing and implementing its country programming processes and products, including Common Country Assessments (CCA), UNDAF, and CPDs; supervised two IUNVs and 5 National Staff in the RCO; led and coordinated UNDAF formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation and liaised with key Government counterparts and coordinated government and stakeholders’ dialogue. Ensured preparation, implementation, monitoring of, and reporting on the Resident Coordinator and UNCT’s Work Plan; planned and led UNCT retreats, and regular monthly and extraordinary UNCT meetings. Carried out effective advocacy of UN activities in close consultation with the UN Communications Group (UNCG). Supported implementation of the resource mobilization strategy for UNDAF implementation and Mid-Term Review and facilitated knowledge building and management. Organized and Coordinated the UNCT, OMT and IAPT; and led donors’ activities with host country government. Promoted UN reform through Joint Programming and Delivering as One (DaO) initiative. Drafted the first-ever UN Liberia’s DaO Concept Note for the Government of Liberia. Set up the IAPT and OMT and promoted assessment, planning and implementation of Common Services and Harmonized Business Practices in pursuit of the UN reform agenda. Prepared talking points, briefing/background notes and annual reports, speeches, and UNCT/OMT/IAPT work plans; prepared UNCT reports to UNDG/DOCO, and UNSG in New York.

 c.        National Government

1.       Deputy Foreign Minister for International Cooperation & Economic Integration, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Liberia (2014-2015):

As Deputy Foreign Minister of International Cooperation and Economic Integration, Republic of Liberia, I headed Liberia’s Delegation to and served as Lead Negotiator for the Government of Liberia at the eight rounds of Intergovernmental Negotiations on the Post-2015 Global Development Agenda (the SDGs) at the UN in NY. I negotiated all bilateral and multilateral agreements for the Government and people of Liberia. Served as Liberia’s Focal Point on Climate Change and Environmental Protection, REED and Board Chair for EPA, Board Member on the Small Arms Commission of Liberia, and Board Member for the Financial Intelligence Unit of Liberia. Led negotiations and represented the Government of Liberia at all national, regional and international organizations including, but not limited to the UN, AU, ECOWAS, MRU, Non-Aligned Movement, the Afro-Arab Summit, and NGOs/INGOs. Supervised and evaluated the 2 Assistant Ministers of the Bureaus of International Cooperation and Economic Affairs, and the Bureau of International Organizations Affairs. Served as Acting Foreign Minister on three   occasions and supervised over 150 staff.

2.       Assistant Foreign Minister for Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Liberia (2012-2014):

Effectively supervised 25 staff, including Desk Officers, Research Analysts, etc. strategically coordinated the foreign policy and diplomatic activities of Liberia in Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and the Pacific. Provided strategic guidance as well as policy advice to Liberia’s foreign missions; and coordinated, supervised, and directed the Affairs of the Foreign Ministry in its interaction with Afro-Asian Embassies near Monrovia. Prepared critical and strategic socio-political, economic, and development analyses for fostering development and economic diplomacy, and bilateral and multilateral cooperation with friendly states. Regularly prepared concept papers/notes, briefing papers, aide memoires, diplomatic notes, MOUs, speeches and responses, communiqués, talking points, letters/note verbal, condolences/congratulatory messages, and a host of other documents for the Minster of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Ministers and the Office of the President of the Republic of Liberia. Served as Government of Liberia Expert to the MRU, ECOWAS, and AU Peace and Security, and Mediation Committees at the Ministerial Level. Developed the Concept of Ministerial Complex in Liberia in line with the UN One House under the DaO in 2012.

 3.       Chief of Staff, Office of the Chairman on Executive, House of Representatives, Liberia National Legislature (2006-2007):

Served as Office Administrator/ Chief Liaison; coordinated relations between the House of Representatives of the National Legislature and Executive Branch of Government; provided advisory, policy, and technical support to the Legislative Committee on the Executive. Served as Secretary to the Chair of the House of Representative Statutory Committee on Executive. Reviewed and drafted proposed legislations/bills/resolutions, etc.  Raised 1m USD for the Government of Liberia from the Australian Government.

d. other experiences

ü  Field Supervisor, LCIP/USAID Social and & Economic Reintegration, Grand Gedeh County, Liberia (2004-2005)

Supervised over 50 Social and Economic reintegration programs CBOs in the Southeastern Region. Coordinated five Implementing Partners (IPs). Conducted Community-based psychosocial support trainings/workshops. Prepared, managed, and reported on a project budget of 4m USD; monitored and evaluated the budgets for IPs. Compiled and submitted monthly, quarterly, and annual timesheets/reports. Prepared concept notes, project proposals, timesheets, etc. Supervised 30 field and Field assistants.

ü  Psychosocial Officer, World Vision Liberia (2000-2004)

Assessed basic psychosocial needs of ex-child soldiers and referred them to rehabilitation centres. Conducted community-based psychosocial training for local community leaders, ex-combs, and War Affected Persons. Trained psychosocial support workers through TOT workshops. Conducted assessments/surveys, and made monthly, quarterly, and annual reports. Developed concept notes and wrote project proposals.

ü  Editor-in-Chief Observation newspaper, Monrovia, Liberia (2002-2004):

Served as senior gatekeeper. Edited all news stories, articles, features, and columns. Wrote commentaries, lead stories, editorials, and articles and supervised editorial and administrative staff. Served as Official spokesperson.

ü  Consultancies, Research and Volunteerism

Country Researcher for HUMA-LASPAD PROJECT to author Liberia’s country report on the state of African Scholarly Publishing and Dissemination. Rostered Member (International UN Volunteer and UN Coordination Practice Network-UNCPN); National Consultant-Liberia Zero Hunger Strategic Review (2016-2017). National Consultant-Developed training module on Democratic Governance in Liberia, Liberia Institute for Public Administration (2007); National Consultant-UNDP sponsored research on the Traditional Forms of Reconciliation in Liberia (2005); National Consultant-UNMIL National Human Rights Review Study (2006); Facilitator-UNDP Annual Retreat (2008); Facilitator- UN Liberia OMT Common Services Retreat (2008); Facilitator-UNDP Annual Retreat (2009); Facilitator-Operations Management Team Retreat, United Nations Ethiopia (2010). Volunteer (National Secretary General), Habitat for Humanity International; Volunteer Engagement Specialist- UNICEF Liberia (2019/2001); National Consultant for the Development of the Roadmap for the Protection of Children Living in Street Situations-UNICEF Liberia (2002/2003).

III. Awards, Fellowships and Memberships

Certificates, University of Liberia 104th Commencement Convocation (2023/2024) Faculty Scholastic Recognition and Honouring Program in appreciation of Peer-Reviewed Publications and Dedication to Duty; Certificates of Scholastic Excellence for publication of two books and several peer-reviewed articles in academic journals (2019/2020 & 2020/2021; 2021/2023); Fellow, Kistefos African Public Service Fellowship awarded to attend Havard University Kennedy Graduate School to study and research Leading Economic Growth; Member of the Asia Pacific Policy Society, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT; Member Australian Post Graduate Scholarship Award; Pilgrim Certificate-Jerusalem Pilgrim (fulfilled the Biblical calling and ascended to Jerusalem, the Holy City); Member (Staff Representative) UNDP Liberia Disciplinary Committee; Certificate-Yardenit Baptismal Site on the Jordan River; Scholar, Joseph Jenkins Roberts Scholarship for Outstanding Graduate students in Liberia; Certificate of Highest Honour-University of Liberia; Certificate of Achievement-Mathematics, St. Francis High School; Certificate of Social and Political Change in Liberia, the New DEAL Movement; Member-United Nations Coordination Practice Network (CPN); Member-UN Peace Building Cooperation Network; Member, Humanitarian Law Practice Network; Member United Nations Volunteers; Board Member- “Journalists Initiative for Peaceful Elections in Liberia (JIPEL); Board Chairperson, Lutheran Church in Liberia School System (LCLSS).

IV. National Political, Extra-curricular religious activities  

Vice Chairman for Administration,National Democratic Coalition (NDC); Acting Chairman, New DEAL Movement (2022-2023); Vice Chairman for National Affairs, The New DEAL Movement (2016-2023); NDC District 9 Representative Candidate in 2011 Presidential and General elections; Chairman for Montserrado Chapter, The New DEAL Movement (2000-2004); Incorporator-Liberia Foundation for Education (LIFE, Inc.); Founder and Sponsor, Thomas Kaydor, Sr.; Standard Bearer-Independent Camp, University of Liberia Students Union elections (2001/02); Chairman, Vanguard Student Unification Party (SUP), University of Liberia (2001/2002); Chairman-Membership, Recruitment and Mobilization Committee (SUP, 2000/2001); Reporter-Varsity Pilot Newspaper (1998-2003); University of Liberia;Editor-in-Chief, Observation newspaper, Liberia;  Insurance Agent, Continental General Insurance Company; Political Analyst, Truth FM Radio Station; Chairperson of LCL Scholarship Committee, Lutheran Church in Liberia; President, Trinity Lutheran Church Men Fellowship (2021-2024); Father of the Year (2019/2020) Trinity Lutheran Church (TLC); Vice President-Men Department, TLC (2012-2014); Board Member, Trinity Lutheran School (2005-2008); President-Monrovia District Lutheran Youth Fellowship (1999/2001); Secretary General, Trinity Lutheran Youth Fellowship (1997/1998). Choir Director-Voice of Trinity, TLC.

VI. Research and Publications

Books:

Kaydor, T. (2023).  Desenvolvimento e diálogo político: Ensaios Seleccionados;

LAP LAMBERT Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2023).  Sviluppo e dialogo politico: Saggi selezionati. LAP LAMBERT

Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2023).  Desarrollo y diálogo político: Ensayos seleccionados. LAP  

LAMBERT Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2023). Entwicklung und politischer Dialog: Ausgewählte Aufsätze. LAP

LAMBERT Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2023). Développement et dialogue politique : Essais choisis. LAP LAMBERT

Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2020). Development and Policy Dialogue: Contemporary Insights, Authorhouse,

Bloomington, IN, USA.

Kaydor, T. (2018). Development and Policy Dialogue: Selected Essays, LAP LAMBERT

Academic Publishing, SIA OmniScriptum Publishing, Brivibas gatve 197, LV-1039, Riga Latvia, EU.

Kaydor, T. (2014). Liberian Democracy: A Critique of the Principle of Checks and Balances,  

Authorhouse, Bloomington, In, USA.

Book chapters:

Kaydor, T. (2024). Utilizing Aid Effectiveness to Address Global Poverty and Pandemics for Inclusive Growth in Developing

Countries - Prof. Thomas Kaydor, Jr. - IJIRMPS Special Issue - International Conference on Engineering, Economics, Management and Applied Sciences (January 2025). DOI 10.37082/IJIRMPS.ICE2MAS-24.3; https://doi.org/g8zsfd.

Kaydor, T. (2022). International Cooperation. In: Leal Filho, W., Azul, A.M., Doni, F., Salvia, A.L. (eds) Handbook of

Sustainability Science in the Future. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-68074-9_2-1.

Kaydor, T. (2020). Cash Transfer: A Strategic for Poverty Reduction. In: Leal Filho W., Azul A.M., Brandli L., Lange Salvia A.,

Özuyar P.G., Wall T. (eds) No Poverty. Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Springer, Cham.                 https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-69625-6_107-1.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/s?k=thomas+kaydor%2C+jr&crid=RYTFOTIY43HV&sprefix=%2Caps%2C440&ref=nb_sb_ss_recent_1_0_recent.

Kaydor, T. (2014). ‘What might Africa-China bilateral relationship be in 2030’, in A.S Patel,

J.S.G Teo, & S.W Dempsey (eds), Global Perspectives on International Affairs: Collection of Essays, Forum for Global Affairs, ANU, Canberra, Australia, pp. 107-125.

Journal Articles/Essays:

Kaydor, T (2024). Utilising Aid Effectiveness to Address Global Poverty and Pandemics for

Inclusive Growth in Developing Countries; Global Scientific and Academic Research Journal of Economics, Business and Management (GSAR) ISSN: 2583-5645; vol –3 Issue – 12 PP: -76-85. https://gsarpublishers.com/wp- content/uploads/2024/12/GSARJEBM2262024-FT-Gelary-script.pdf.

Kaydor, T. (2024). Addressing Global Poverty: The Role of Aid in Achieving Inclusive

growth. International Journal of Innovation and Social Sciences (IJRISS), ISSN No. 2454-6186/Vol XIII, Issue X October 2024. https://www.researchgate.net/deref/https%3A%2F%2Fdx.doi.org%2F10.47772%2FIJRISS.2024.8100126?_tp=eyJjb250ZXh0Ijp7ImZpcnN0UGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicGFnZSI6InB1YmxpY2F0aW9uIiwicG9zaXRpb24iOiJwYWdlQ29udGVudCJ9fQ.

Kaydor, T. (2024). The Link Between Sustainable Development and International cooperation. Global

Scientific and Academic Research Journal of Economics, Business and Management ISSN: 2583-5645; Vol –3 Issue – 10 PP: -14-24. https://gsarpublishers.com/wp- ent/uploads/2024/10/GSARJEBM1742024-Gelary-script.pdf. https://gsarpublishers.com/gsarjebm-vol-3-issue-10-october-2024-2/.

Kaydor, T. (2024). Reconceptualizing Africa’s Regional Integration for Peace and

Sustainable Development. NTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE  (IJRISS) ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VIII Issue VII July 2024. DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2024.807139.

Kaydor, T. (2024). The Role of Corruption on Liberia’s Peace and Stability. International Journal of Research

and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) |Volume VI, Issue VII, July 2022|ISSN 2454-6186. https://www.rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/Digital-Library/volume-8-issue-2/188-210.pdf.

Kaydor, T. (2023). The effects of poor infrastructure on poverty reduction in post-conflict

Liberia. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume VII & Issue I January 2023; https://www.rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/Digital-Library/volume-7-issue-1/55-62.pdf;

Kaydor, T. (2022). The Role of the International Criminal Court in Liberia’s Peace and

Stability. International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) Volume VI, Issue VII, July 2022 | ISSN 2454–6186URL: https://www.rsisinternational.org/journals/ijriss/Digital-Library/volume-6-issue-7/562-575.pdf.

Kaydor, T. (2022). International Cooperation: Fulcrum for Sustainable Development; in W.

Leal Filho et al. (eds.), Handbook of Sustainability Science in the Future, Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2022, https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-3-030-68074-9_2-1#DOI.

Kaydor, T. (2020). Cash Transfer: A Strategic for Poverty Reduction. In: Leal Filho W., Azul A.M., Brandli L., Lange Salvia A., Özuyar P.G., Wall T. (eds) No Poverty. Encyclopedia of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-69625-6_107-1.

Other online publications:

Kaydor, T. (2014). ‘The impact of poor infrastructure on poverty reduction in post-conflict countries’; New Dawn Newspaper

(online edition), 12 June, Monrovia, Liberia. http://www.thenewdawnliberia.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11890:impact-of-poor-infrastructure-on-poverty-reduction-in-post-conflict-countries-case-of-liberia&catid=50:special-feature&Itemid=85.

Kaydor, T. (2014). ‘Offering cash alone to the poor is not enough, New Dawn Newspaper; (online edition), 2 June, Monrovia,

Liberia; http://www.thenewdawnliberia.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=11808:offering-cash-alone-to-the-poor-is-not-enough&catid=50:special-feature&Itemid=85.

Kaydor, T. (2014) .‘Obstacles to achieving MDG2 in the Republic of Liberia’, FrontPage Africa ;(online edition), 10 June,

Monrovia, Liberia; http://www.frontpageafricaonline.com/index.php/op-ed/commentaries-features/1902-obstacles-to- achieving-mdg2-in-the-republic-of-liberia.

Unpublished works:

Kaydor, T. (2009).  An Effective Legislature, the Alternative to Presidential Autocracy in

Liberia, unpublished Postgraduate Thesis, IBB Graduate School of International Studies, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.

Kaydor, T. (2002). An Analysis of the Balance of Power Amongst the Three Branches of the

Liberian Government, unpublished undergraduate Thesis, Liberia College of Social Sciences and Humanities, University of Liberia, Monrovia, Liberia.

Kaydor, T. (2005). A Concise Manual for Community and Social Workers, Monrovia, Liberia.

VIII. References:


Prof Dr. Gorazd Justinek

Former Dean & PhD Supervisor

Department of Government and European Studies

New University, Slovenia, Europe

Email: gorazd.justinek@gmail.com

 

Prof.   Dr. Jonathan Taylor

Vice President Graduate Education

University of Liberia

taylorjc@ul.edu.lr

jontay4peace@yahoo.com; mobile: +231 886510328