ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, USA — USA-based Liberian activist Norris Johnson has called for greater accountability and measurable results from the Union of Liberian Associations in the Americas (ULAA), amid discussions surrounding the 2026 Liberia Diaspora Annual Conference.
In a statement, Johnson questioned whether ULAA’s longstanding engagement with Liberian communities and government has produced measurable national development outcomes sufficient to influence the scheduling or direction of the diaspora conference.
Johnson said the questions should not be viewed as an attack on ULAA, but as part of a broader accountability discussion.
He challenged the organization to provide evidence of its contributions, including the number of schools supported, scholarships provided, healthcare initiatives undertaken, businesses assisted, jobs created and investments mobilized in Liberia.
The activist acknowledged ULAA’s advocacy and engagement with the Liberian government, including discussions concerning development and private-sector collaboration.
The 2026 Liberia Diaspora Annual Conference, held September 25–27 at the Hilton Alexandria Mark Center, focuses on the theme “From Dialogue to Delivery,” with emphasis on investment, entrepreneurship, healthcare, education, skills development and measurable national outcomes.
Johnson said Liberia needs diaspora organizations that move beyond meetings and conferences toward tangible investments, partnerships and development projects.
He concluded by urging Liberians to place national interests above organizational or personal considerations, emphasizing: “Liberia first. Results over rhetoric. Action over ceremonies.”
