27/02/2026
The second learning series of the National Market Systems Development (MSD) Coalition of Liberia, under the theme “MSD in Action in Liberia”, came off yesterday, February 26th at the Liberia Chamber of Commerce. The learning event, organized by UNIDO GROW-2 and Mercy Corps with support from LINGO Forum was a powerful reminder that honest, sector-shaping conversations are happening in Liberia.
The event brought together over 55 participants, including MSD practitioners, INGOs, local organizations, finance actors, and system thinkers, ready to speak openly about what real facilitation looks like in our context.
Huge appreciation to our facilitator, Mr. William Sheldrick Marshall, and to our case presenters: Welthungerhilfe Liberia, Concern Worldwide, Nextier Liberia, and Entrepreneurs du Monde, for grounding the discussions in real, practical examples.
Key reflections from the day:
• Liberia’s projects are steadily shifting from direct delivery toward true facilitation.
• System barriers, including information gaps, weak coordination, and limited finance, still persist.
• Grant dependency is still a challenge, but many actors are intentionally moving toward market-based approaches.
• Sustainability requires uncomfortable honesty.
• Inclusion is achievable, but only with disciplined, well-designed financial and service models.
The biggest takeaway: systemic change can’t be one-sided. It demands coordination, trust, documentation, and shared ownership.
The MSD Coalition now moves toward formalizing its structure and technical working group, with the next learning series proposed for April.
We are grateful for the energy, openness, and maturity everyone brought into the room.
