By Nukanah Kollie
BONG COUNTY, LIBERIA – With his shoulders squared and a confident smile lighting up his face, Chief Dakukai Nah sits tall in his wheelchair, dressed in a neatly tailored local shirt, long trousers, and worn-in sneakers that speak to both style and substance. His presence is quiet yet commanding, the kind that draws respect without saying a word. In a world where physical limitations are too often mistaken for inability, Chief Nah flips the script. His recent appointment as General Town Chief of Deseayea Clan, Zone-1 in Konawolala Administrative District, Lower Bong County isn’t just a personal achievement, it’s a bold statement that leadership knows no boundaries. It’s a lesson in resilience, representation, and the power of inclusive governance.
A well-respected advocate and longtime community leader, Chief Dakukai Nah’s appointment was of recent, officially endorsed by the Minister of Internal Affairs, Hon. Francis Sakila Nyumalin, Sr. It marks a historic moment for the disabled community in Bong County and across Liberia. Dakukai has served as the Disabled Chairperson for Salala District in Bong County Electoral District#7 and was most recently the Human Resource Officer at the Totota City Corporation. His years of dedicated service and advocacy made him a natural choice for this position.
Upon receiving his appointment letter recently in Gbarnga, Bong County, Chief Nah expressed deep gratitude and called it an honor not just for himself, but for the entire disabled community. “Our disability is not our inability,” he said, reminding society that people with disabilities are capable of serving, leading, and driving positive change.
Over the years, Dakukai Nah has taken on several leadership roles, including working with the election commission and leading community development projects. His focus has always been on unity and collaboration. “We need to bring everyone together, the disabled, the community, and even those who led before us,” he shared. He believes that peace and progress come through working hand-in-hand with others, regardless of differences.
One of the key values Dakukai brings to the role is discipline in leadership. He stressed the importance of knowing your boundaries and responsibilities. “Once you understand your role and limits, the community will understand your work,” he said. He reaffirmed that his leadership will be based on service, not politics or personal interests.
Despite his achievements, Dakukai pointed out that many public spaces in Liberia, including government buildings and hospitals, remain inaccessible to people with disabilities. “We should be able to access public offices just like anyone else,” he said. He also highlighted the National Policy on Disability, which calls for at least 5% of public sector jobs to be reserved for qualified persons with disabilities. Dakukai emphasized the need for full implementation of this policy to ensure inclusion in both elected and appointed government positions.
A concerned member of the disabled community in Bong County praised the Internal Affairs Minister for recognizing one of their own and called on the government to include more qualified disabled individuals in public service. “This is a big step, but more must be done,” said community member Korto Sumo. “We have educated and capable people among us who deserve a seat at the table.”
However, other community members in Bong County have also welcomed Chief Nah’s appointment with enthusiasm, seeing it as a turning point in the fight for equal representation and inclusion of persons with disabilities in national decision-making.
“This appointment is a proud moment for all of us,” said Joseph Kollie, a fellow advocate from Bong County. “It proves that disability is not a limitation when it comes to leadership.”
Another resident, Ma Mary Togbah, commended the government, saying, “Including persons with disabilities in local and national leadership helps build a more balanced and fair society.”
For Willie Flomo, a local youth leader, Dakukai’s appointment sends a powerful message: “When the government includes people from every walk of life, especially the disabled community, it strengthens our democracy and promotes equal opportunity.”
Despite the challenges, Chief Dakukai’s resilience continues to shine. “People in the streets see my work and give me a thumbs up,” he said proudly. His appointment is not just a title, it is a chance to continue serving, to push for change, and to inspire others. He plans to meet with his predecessor, a man with over 30 years of experience, to learn and collaborate for the good of the district.
Chief Dakukai’s appointment is more than a personal achievement, it’s a win for inclusion, representation, and hope. He is determined to serve the people of Konawolala Administrative District and Deseayea Clan with integrity, unity, and compassion. As Liberia works toward building a more inclusive society, leaders like Chief Dakukai Nah are showing the way forward, where no one is left behind.
