Cestos City, Rivercess County — The Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), through the Arts and Culture Ambassadors, has officially launched a financial management awareness campaign in Rivercess County aimed at improving financial literacy, promoting responsible money management, and strengthening public confidence in Liberia’s financial system.
The program held on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at the Cestos City Hall, brought together community members, market women, youth groups, traditional leaders, and representatives of civil society organizations.
The event is part of the CBL’s nationwide outreach strategy to educate citizens on basic financial principles, including savings, budgeting, banking services, and the safe use of formal financial institutions.
Speaking at the launch, Mr. Thomas Majoe Borley, Outreach Coordinator for the Arts and Culture Ambassadors, said the initiative is designed to empower citizens with practical knowledge to make informed financial decisions, particularly at the household and small-business levels.
Mr. Borley noted that limited financial awareness has contributed to poor saving habits and increased vulnerability to fraud, especially in rural and semi-urban communities.
“Financial literacy is a key pillar of economic stability. When people understand how to manage their income, save responsibly, and use formal banking services, it strengthens not only their families but the national economy as a whole,” he stressed.
During the session, participants were educated on personal budgeting, the importance of saving with licensed financial institutions, understanding interest rates, and avoiding unregulated money schemes. Facilitators also highlighted the benefits of digital financial services and encouraged residents to embrace mobile banking and other modern financial tools.
Community members welcomed the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful. Several participants observed that many small business operators in the county lack proper financial planning, often resulting in losses and debt.
“This program has opened our eyes. We now understand why saving is important and how to separate business money from personal spending,” one market woman remarked.
Local authorities in Rivercess County commended the Central Bank and the Arts and Culture Ambassadors for bringing the initiative to the grassroots, noting that financial education is essential to poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth.
They called for the program to be sustained and expanded to other districts across the county.
The Arts and Culture Ambassadors disclosed that the financial management awareness activities has ended with Rivercess as the last county for the launch as part of their commitment to inclusive economic development and building a financially informed population.
As Liberia continues efforts to strengthen its financial sector, initiatives such as this awareness campaign are expected to play a critical role in building public trust, improving financial discipline, and empowering citizens to participate more effectively in the formal economy.
