MONROVIA – On Saturday, July 20, 2024, President Joseph Boakai hosted a pivotal Independence Day town-hall meeting with the youth of Liberia at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Monrovia. This event marked an important moment for open dialogue, allowing young Liberians to engage directly with the President about the future of their nation.
Following the meeting, President Boakai shared a heartfelt message, expressing deep gratitude to the youth for taking time from their busy lives to participate. He acknowledged their diverse contributions, spanning from professional endeavors to vibrant engagement on social media platforms like TikTok, Facebook, and WhatsApp. His invitation aimed to foster interaction and share ideas on the challenges, aspirations, and collective vision for Liberia’s future.
President Boakai stressed the crucial role of youth in shaping the nation’s destiny. He emphasized that the purpose of the gathering was not to dispense advice, but to collaboratively envision a future that reflects their hopes and dreams. The President articulated a clear message: the faith young people place in democracy instills hope for a brighter future. He underscored the importance of fair and transparent leadership selection as essential for national progress.
In his address, President Boakai reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the ARREST Agenda, a strategic framework designed to prioritize youth empowerment. He assured the participants that he intends to maintain ongoing communication with youth leaders to co-create initiatives that resonate with their aspirations. By fostering such collaboration, he seeks to build a Liberia where every young person can achieve their fullest potential.
President Boakai outlined a comprehensive vision for youth development, focusing on key areas critical for their advancement. He stressed the importance of providing access to quality education and skills training, which are fundamental for preparing young Liberians for the challenges of the future. Additionally, he highlighted the need to improve economic opportunities, including better 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. Moreover, he spoke passionately about amplifying the voices of youth in democratic processes, ensuring that 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.
As Liberia looks towards a promising future, the town-hall meeting represented the beginning of an ongoing commitment to inclusive governance. President Boakai’s engagement with the youth signals a dedication to ensuring that the next generation is prepared and empowered to take leadership roles and drive the nation forward.
The dialogue initiated at this meeting is intended to continue, with President Boakai promising regular interactions and consultations with young leaders. He envisions a future where private meetings and collaborative efforts lead to the development of initiatives that truly address the needs and aspirations of all youth. The President concluded with a call to action, urging young people to remain ready and engaged, as their involvement is critical for the successful realization of a new Liberia that values and incorporates their voices and talents.
