OIPA ETS  is pleased to announce the appointment of Robert K. Gboluma, Jr. as its new Country Representative in Liberia. 

This appointment represents an important step in strengthening OIPA’s presence in West Africa and advancing animal protection initiatives in a context where the sector is still emerging and in need of structured development. 

Robert K. Gboluma, Jr. is the founder of Youth Development Agency (YDA), an organization actively engaged in public health, environmental justifice, youth empowerment, human rights, and community-based development. His work reflects a strong belief in the connection between animal welfare, public health, environmental sustainability, and social progress. 

A Vision Rooted in Experience 

Growing up in Liberia, Robert witnessed first-hand the central role animals play in family life, agriculture, security, and community identity. At the same time, he observed the challenges animals face due to poverty, limited public awareness, and insufficient access to veterinary services. 

These early experiences shaped his conviction that compassion toward animals is a reflection of a nation’s moral and developmental strength. 

“Animal welfare is not only an ethical responsibility,” Robert explains, “but a fundamental component of environmental justice, public health, and sustainable development.” 

The Current Animal Welfare Context in Liberia 

Animal protection in Liberia remains an underdeveloped field, facing multiple structural challenges: 

  • Absence of a comprehensive national animal protection law
  • Limited awareness of responsible animal care
  • Harmful traditional practices and animal sacrifice
  • Low vaccination coverage
  • Limited access to affordable veterinary services, particularly in rural areas
  • Growing stray animal populations in urban centres
  • Weak enforcement of existing regulations

Addressing these challenges requires long-term engagement, education, and collaboration with communities and institutions. 

 Ongoing Initiatives and Community Engagement 

Through his role as OIPA Country Representative  Robert K. Gboluma, Jr.  will be  focusing on grassroots awareness, engagement, and institutional dialogues. 

Activities will  include: 

  • Community sensitization sessions promoting humane treatment and responsible pet ownership 
  • Engagement of youth volunteers as agents of change 
  • Collaboration with traditional and community leaders to discourage harmful practices 
  • Encouraging community-based monitoring and reporting of animal abuse 

 Efforts are also underway to establish a structured national network of animal welfare volunteers across different counties to strengthen outreach, reporting, and education. 

In parallel, discussions have begun to explore the integration of humane education into school and community programs, with the aim of fostering empathy and responsible animal care among young generations. 

Looking Ahead 

 As OIPA Country Representative, Robert K. Gboluma’s vision is to build a coordinated national animal welfare network, strengthen collaboration between civil society and government institutions, promote sustainable rabies prevention and vaccination initiatives, and lay the foundation for accessible veterinary outreach programs. 

The long-term objective is to promote a culture of compassion and responsible care that benefits both animals and communities throughout Liberia. 

OIPA warmly welcomes Robert Gboluma to its global network and looks forward to supporting the development of sustainable, locally driven animal protection initiatives in Liberia.