In a statement that sparked discussion across the nation, Youth and Sports Minister Cllr. Jeror Cole Bangalu has emphasized that creating jobs is not the government’s direct responsibility. Speaking on Monday during the signing of a L$2.5 million sponsorship deal with Radio Entertainment Liberia for the 2023-2024 National County Sports Meet, Minister Bangalu clarified the government’s role in fostering employment opportunities.
According to the Minister, the government’s primary responsibility is to create an enabling environment where the private sector can thrive and generate jobs. He addressed criticisms of the Unity Party-led government, which has faced backlash for an alleged lack of job creation during its first year in office. Bangalu dismissed the criticisms as a misunderstanding of the government’s mandate.
“Government is not responsible for creating jobs. That’s not our role. Anyone saying otherwise doesn’t fully understand how governance works,” Bangalu stated. However, he stressed that ensuring an environment conducive to employment remains a top priority.
County Meet: A Platform for Economic Empowerment
Highlighting the National County Sports Meet, Bangalu pointed to the event as an example of how the government indirectly supports job creation. He explained that the tournament goes beyond sports, offering short-term economic opportunities for many Liberians.
“The County Meet isn’t just about football or kickball. It’s an avenue for economic empowerment, creating jobs—albeit temporarily—for young people,” he remarked.
As part of the sponsorship deal, Radio Entertainment Liberia will provide cash prizes to exceptional players. Preliminary round winners in football and kickball will receive L$5,000 each, while winners in the quarterfinals, semifinals, and grand finals will be awarded L$20,000. Minister Bangalu praised these prizes as a meaningful contribution to the lives of young participants, with potential to be life-changing for many.
All Set for the 2023-2024 County Meet
The highly anticipated National County Sports Meet will officially kick off on January 12, 2025, with games hosted in Sinoe, Grand Gedeh, Bong, and Grand Cape Mount Counties. Minister Bangalu assured the public that preparations are on track and reiterated the broader purpose of the event.
“This is more than just a competition. It’s a platform to bring Liberians together while creating opportunities for economic empowerment,” he concluded.
The County Meet continues to inspire hope among participants and spectators, reminding the nation of the power of sports to unify and uplift.
