MONROVIA – As Liberia approaches its 177th Independence Day on July 26th, themed “Building A New Liberia For All Liberians,” citizens eagerly anticipate how President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration will realize this vision. A key event leading up to the celebration was a significant town hall meeting on July 20, 2024, where President Boakai met with the youth at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Monrovia. This gathering marked a crucial moment for open dialogue, providing young Liberians the opportunity to engage directly with the President about their country’s future.
In his opening remarks, President Boakai expressed profound gratitude to the youth for attending, acknowledging their diverse contributions to society, from professional pursuits to active engagement on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp. His invitation aimed to encourage interaction and share ideas on the challenges, aspirations, and collective vision for Liberia’s future.
The President emphasized the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s destiny. Rather than simply dispensing advice, he sought to collaboratively envision a future that reflects their hopes and dreams. His message was clear: the trust young people place in democracy inspires hope for a brighter future, and selecting leaders through fair and transparent processes is essential for national progress.
Reaffirming his commitment to the ARREST Agenda, a strategic framework prioritizing youth empowerment, President Boakai assured participants of ongoing communication with youth leaders. This collaboration aims to co-create initiatives that resonate with their aspirations, building a Liberia where every young person can achieve their fullest potential.
Central to President Boakai’s vision for youth development are key areas critical for advancement. He stressed the importance of access to quality education and skills training, fundamental for preparing young Liberians for future challenges. Economic opportunities were also highlighted, with a focus on improving access to capital for entrepreneurial ventures, enabling young people to start businesses and drive innovation.
Healthcare access was another crucial aspect of the President’s vision. He emphasized the necessity of enhancing medical services to ensure the well-being of young people across the nation. Additionally, he spoke passionately about amplifying the voices of youth in democratic processes, ensuring they have a meaningful stake in shaping the country’s governance and policies.
President Boakai made it clear that investing in young people is not merely a choice but a fundamental requirement for the nation’s success. He declared, “It is the bedrock on which we build a New Liberia for All Liberians,” underscoring his dedication to creating a society where the youth are empowered to contribute positively and effectively.
In anticipation of the Independence Day celebrations, all eyes are on this year’s orator, Dr. Robtel Neajai Pailey, a distinguished academic, anti-corruption activist, and author. Dr. Pailey is expected to offer insights on Liberia’s path forward, contributing to the national discourse on progress and development.
As the nation prepares to celebrate, the focus remains on how the Unity Party government will translate this dialogue into tangible actions, creating a brighter future for all Liberians. The engagement between President Boakai and the youth is a promising step towards realizing a new Liberia, reflecting a collective commitment to growth and unity.
Through open communication and strategic initiatives, President Boakai’s administration aims to harness the potential of its young population, fostering an environment where every Liberian can thrive. The town hall meeting served as a testament to the government’s dedication to inclusivity and progress, setting the stage for a hopeful future.
The celebration of Liberia’s independence is not only a reflection on past achievements but also an opportunity to chart a course for future success. With the youth at the forefront, Liberia stands poised to embrace a new era of prosperity and unity, driven by a shared vision for development and inclusivity.
