By By: Staff Writer
Paynesville – The Director General of the General Services Agency (GSA), Galakpai W. Kortimai, has called on the FISSEBU Youth Development Association [FYDA] to transform “The Strength in Unity” from a theme into tangible action for home.
Speaking as Guest Speaker at FYDA’s 5th Anniversary Celebration held Sunday August 30th at the Censil University Auditorium in Wood-Camp, Paynesville, Hon. Kortimai praised the association for choosing development over division since its founding on August 1, 2021.
“Throughout history, no community, no nation, no one people ever achieved meaningful development while divided. Unity is the bedrock upon which progress is built,” the GSA boss told hundreds of FYDA members, elders and guests.
DG Kortimai, a son of Yeala Town in Zorzor District, Lofa County, said FYDA’s growth from a small group of “sons and daughters” to over 100 active members is proof that organized diaspora communities can drive change. He described FYDA as a “bridge” connecting Fissebu people in Montserrado County to their cultural foundation in Lofa.
The centerpiece of this year’s anniversary is a $1,065 drive to provide bookbags, copybooks, pens and pencils to 300 nursery students across all schools in Fissebu Town. Hon. Kortimai hailed the initiative as “a strategic intervention in the human capital of Lofa County” and not just charity.
“Education is the greatest equalizer. When you provide a child with a copybook and pencil, you are handing them a key to unlock their potential. You are telling that child they have not been forgotten,” he said.
In what drew loud applause, the GSA Director General backed his words with action and announced a personal contribution to the 2026 education target. “Talk without action is dead. We cannot simply praise your intention without empowering your hands to do the work,” he declared.
He challenged FYDA leadership to think beyond 2026 and begin planning for bigger projects including teacher training, school renovation, digital literacy and scholarships. He also urged Liberia’s youth to lead now.
“Do not let anyone tell you that you are a leader of tomorrow. You are a leader today through FYDA. When the energy of the youth meets the wisdom of our elders, the community becomes unstoppable,” Kortimai stated.
Closing, Hon. Kortimai assured FYDA of GSA’s partnership, noting that government supports grassroots organizations that demonstrate accountability, vision and love for country. “FYDA has managed its affairs with honor and kept its focus squarely on the people of Fissebu Town. For that, you deserve the full support of citizens and friends of Lofa County,” he concluded.
The event climaxed with a friendly sport match and fundraising rally for early childhood education in Fissebu.
The Fissebu Youth Development Association is a non-governmental organization founded August 1, 2021. Its mission is to advance unity, empowerment, health and education among the people of Fissebu Town, Zorzor District, Lofa County.
