Our Founding Story
On December 11, 2001, a group of visionary young Liberians, specifically university and student leaders led by Eddie D. Jarwolo founded the National Youth Movement for Transparent Elections (NAYMOTE) in the aftermath of the civil conflict.
They sought to initially focused on electoral transparency, and create a platform that would empower young people to actively engage in decision making processes and rebuilding their country’s democratic institutions. Born out of the determination of youth leaders who believed that democracy could only thrive if citizens, especially the younger generation were informed, empowered, and engaged.
The last 23+ years have seen Naymote’s mission grow exponentially as a leading civil society institution promoting political accountability, advancing principles of good democratic governance, rule of law, civic engagement, and youth empowerment in Liberia and across the sub-region. It is committed to a democratic society where dividends are guaranteed, and leaders are held accountable. The institution has trained some of the most prominent young politicians in Africa.
The Founding Years : 1999 – 2001
The institution was birthed out of the determination of youth leaders who believed that democracy could only thrive if citizens, especially the younger generation were informed, empowered, and engaged. Naymote began its journey as a grassroots civic organization. From the earliest days, its founders committed themselves to promoting democratic values, electoral transparency, strengthening accountability, and giving young Liberians a voice in shaping their nation’s future. This vision became a reality when the institution was legally registered in 2001 and received its first grant from the National Endowment for Democracy (NED). The rest has been history.
Formative Years: 2002 – 2013
The formative years of Naymote were ones of inspired growth and experimentation. During this period, the organization expanded its reach from small community gatherings to structured civic education initiatives, mobilizing young people across schools, marketplaces, and rural communities to vote smart and participate in election processes. The “Liberia Bus Project”, “Vote Smart Van” are flagship initiatives that can be remembered, and was championed through the institution pool of volunteers across the country.
These programs helped instill in Liberians a sense of civic duty, resilience, and shared responsibility for increased participation in democratic process. What began as a small movement of passionate youth quickly grew into a recognized institution that bridged citizens and their government, advocating for transparency, participation, and inclusion.
2014 – Present: Building a Democratic Future
From 2014 onward, Naymote has solidified its place as Liberia’s premier democracy and governance institution. Over the years, the organization has pioneered voter education campaigns, developed civic leadership programs, founded the Young Political Leadership School Africa, championed government accountability through initiatives like the President’s Meter, published political accountability reports, published legislative performance reports, strengthened local government administration across the country, and established Fellowship and Mentorship Programs for young emerging leaders.