MONROVIA, LIBERIA — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai addressed the nation on September 11th, upon his return from a week-long trip to Asia, declaring that “we deserve to live in dignity.” Speaking at a thanksgiving service at Effort Baptist Church in Paynesville, the President expressed gratitude for the safe return of his delegation and provided updates on his high-level engagements in Asia.
During his visit, President Boakai participated in two major summits and held bilateral meetings with Indonesian and Chinese leaders. In discussions with Indonesian officials, he advocated for support in developing Liberia’s oil palm sector, including the establishment of a refinery and Indonesian banks to finance smallholder farmers. He also proposed reactivating the Liberia-Indonesia Joint Commission to strengthen development cooperation. Indonesia’s Golden Veroleum, with $2.2 billion invested in oil palm in Southeastern Liberia, is highlighted as a key partner.
In talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Liberia secured substantial aid, including a 200 million RMB grant, 30 million RMB in food assistance, 6.6 million RMB in debt relief, 13 million RMB for agricultural equipment, and 185 million RMB to expand Liberia Broadcasting System coverage. The two leaders agreed to revive stalled infrastructure projects, including overhead bridges at the Ministerial Complex and SKD Boulevard, set to commence in early 2025, with an estimated cost of $30 million. Additionally, China will assist in modernizing Liberia’s electricity grid and construct a 75MW solar power plant in Bomi County, alongside other road and bridge projects.
President Boakai praised China as a crucial partner in Liberia’s development and announced plans to form a team to follow up on the commitments made during his trip. The China-Liberia trade and investment forum in Shenzhen, featuring over 100 Chinese companies, showcased Liberia as an investment destination. Agreements were signed in various sectors, including technology, oil refining, tourism, infrastructure, and maritime programs.
