From investment deals and health-sector training to peace dialogues, charity outreach and a renewed push for diaspora voting, Liberia’s engagement with its citizens abroad has evolved into a full-scale national development platform. Addressing President Joseph N. Boakai and other government officials at the close of the 2025 Diaspora Annual Return over the weekend, the head of the diaspora office in Liberia, Erasmus Williams outlined a year marked by a well-attended Investment Summit, the country’s first-ever Diaspora-led Health Summit that trained local practitioners in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, and a Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue backed by partners including UNDP and IOM.
Beyond policy and dialogue, according to him, the initiative took on a human face, adding that more than 500 children were fed, orphanages received gifts from diaspora Liberians, and Christmas was celebrated with an annual cantata at Providence Baptist Church. Williams narrated that for the second consecutive year, Liberia’s National Cultural Troupe welcomed arriving travelers at Roberts International Airport throughout December, a gesture that organizers say has become a symbol of national pride and reconnection.
“The airport welcome, now slated to become a permanent December tradition, struck an emotional chord with returning Liberians and their children, many of whom were introduced to their county flags and cultural identity for the first time. The volunteer troupe, recognized publicly for its month-long service, also received rice donations in appreciation of their contribution,” he added.
Looking ahead to 2026, the head of the diaspora office confirmed that the Diaspora Annual Return will continue to expand, despite last December’s surge in arrivals that overwhelmed airline baggage systems, a sign, organizers say, of growing confidence and interest in Liberia. On the political front, he also announced concrete progress toward diaspora inclusion in national decision-making.
“Discussions with the National Elections Commission confirmed that Liberians abroad are legally entitled to absentee voting, with logistical preparations now underway. Parallel efforts are ongoing in the Legislature, where bills on diaspora voting are already before both chambers, alongside the formation of diaspora caucuses in the Senate and House of Representatives,” Williams said.
He notes, “Plans for a Diaspora Commission are also advancing, following commitments announced by President Boakai and legislative leaders.” “We are witnessing a shift where Liberians abroad are no longer spectators, but partners in national development and democracy, emphasizing that initial voting would focus on presidential elections,” the diaspora head said. As Liberia prepares for its third Diaspora Annual Return in December 2026, Williams disclosed that the goal is to deepen unity, expand participation, and turn the seasonal homecoming into a permanent engine for peace, culture and national progress.
