President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has declared that Liberia must fully embrace artificial intelligence and digital technology or risk being left behind in an increasingly technology-driven world, as he unveiled an ambitious agenda to transform the country into a regional hub for innovation, investment and digital governance.
Delivering the keynote address Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at the Liberia Technology Summit 2026 at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Boakai said digital transformation is no longer a choice but a national imperative for improving governance, creating jobs, attracting investment and accelerating economic growth.
“Our administration recognizes that digital transformation is no longer optional. It is essential to effective governance, economic competitiveness and national development,” the President declared before government officials, diplomats, investors, technology experts and young innovators.
Also, Boakai said his administration has already laid the foundation for the country’s digital future through Executive Order No. 163, which established the Office of Technology, Digitalization and Innovation within the Office of the President to coordinate a whole-of-government digital transformation agenda.
Moreover, the President criticized years of fragmented government systems and outdated technologies that have slowed public service delivery and frustrated citizens, insisting that the status quo can no longer continue. “That must change, and change it must now,” he asserted.
However, the Liberian leader outlined a vision of a modern digital Liberia where ministries share information seamlessly, citizens access government services more efficiently, businesses register and pay taxes online, students benefit from expanded digital learning opportunities, farmers receive real-time market information, and healthcare delivery is strengthened through electronic health systems. He urged Liberians to see technology not merely as a communication tool but as a powerful engine for entrepreneurship, innovation and national development.
Addressing young software developers, engineers, cybersecurity professionals and entrepreneurs, Boakai pledged his government’s support for innovation and startup growth. “Liberia believes in you. We want to create an environment where your ideas can flourish, where startups can grow, and where breakthroughs can proudly carry the label ‘Made in Liberia,'” he said.
The President also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to expanding internet connectivity, improving digital literacy, strengthening cybersecurity and encouraging investment in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, financial technology, and digital public infrastructure.
He stressed that the ultimate goal of digital transformation is to improve the lives of ordinary Liberians. “It is about improving lives. It is about making government more responsive. It is about creating opportunities for our youth. It is about building a more competitive economy and ensuring that every Liberian benefits from the opportunities of the 21st century,” Boakai said.
Boakai welcomed a delegation of prospective investors visiting the country ahead of Independence Day celebrations, including South Korean businessman Hans, who is exploring investment opportunities in banking, shipbuilding, manufacturing and other sectors.
Calling for stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, universities, development partners and civil society, the President urged participants to develop practical solutions that will accelerate Liberia’s digital transformation.
Expressing confidence in Liberia’s future, Boakai said growing international interest signals brighter economic prospects for the country. “I can see on the horizon that Liberia is going to be blessed. A lot of interest has been generated, good friends are coming, our country is going to move, and you are going to have a great future because you will be thinking Liberia and you will love Liberia.”
