NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy near Monrovia, Mr. Joseph E. Zadrozny, has called for greater efforts to preserve Liberia’s history and national records, emphasizing the importance of making the country’s historical heritage accessible to present and future generations.
By: Gegee Brima – alhajigegeebrima@gmail.com
Zadrozny made the call during a courtesy visit to the Center for National Documents and Records Agency (National Archives) in Monrovia, where he commended the institution’s management and staff for their continued efforts to preserve Liberia’s historical documents and records.
The U.S. diplomat said understanding and preserving Liberia’s history is important to every county and community, noting that the country has an extensive history that must be properly documented, protected, and made available to Liberians and people around the world.
He encouraged National Archives Director General D. Nelson Bearngar and his team to remain committed to preserving the nation’s historical records and ensuring that future generations have access to Liberia’s documentary heritage.
During the visit, Zadrozny toured several sections of the National Archives, including the Repository, Digital Scanning Center, Information Technology Section, Public Records Section, Archival Sections, Projects, Programs and Planning Unit, Marriage Records Section, and the Mini Exhibition Hall.
Following the tour, the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires expressed satisfaction with the work being carried out by the National Archives and pledged to return to the institution in the future.
For his part, National Archives Director General D. Nelson Bearngar said the visit was initiated at the request of the U.S. Chargé d’Affaires and was intended to strengthen partnership and cooperation between the United States Embassy and the National Archives.
Bearngar welcomed the visit, describing it as an important step toward deepening collaboration between the two institutions. He reaffirmed the Archives’ commitment to serving the Liberian people and contributing to the government’s development agenda.
Meanwhile, the National Archives Director General has cautioned Liberians seeking marriage certificates to follow the proper procedures when obtaining the documents.
Bearngar said using the appropriate channels would help applicants avoid unnecessary difficulties or embarrassment, particularly when presenting marriage certificates and other official documents at the U.S. Embassy.
He also identified the digitization of Liberia’s national archives, decentralization of archival services, and logistical constraints as some of the major challenges confronting the institution.
Despite these challenges, Bearngar assured that the National Archives would continue working to improve its operations, preserve Liberia’s historical records, and ensure that the public has greater access to the country’s national documentary heritage.
