During his tour of the Liberia Broadcasting System (LBS) ongoing modern construction work on the new radio and television complex project in Paynesville, President Joseph N. Boakai threw jabs at his critics who once suggested that he was an “old car parked.”
Speaking with reporters on June 17, 2025, after the tour, Boakai said, “For those who used to ask me, what is it you could do as President that you couldn’t do as Vice President, tell them the race car is now on the race track and we’re moving this country forward.”
According to him, the government is not here to manage decline but to deliver progress, adding that the ongoing project shows Liberia is rising stronger, better, and more connected than ever before.
The modernization project, being implemented with the generous support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, represents a partnership in Liberia’s effort to enhance public communication, civic education, and state media services.
President Boakai, accompanied by LBS Director General Eugene L. Fahngon, was led on a guided tour of the construction site, where he inspected the emerging structures and received detailed briefings on the project’s scope, timeline, and strategic significance.
President Boakai emphasized the urgency of rebuilding and modernizing key national institutions, especially those that serve as conduits between the Government and the Liberian people.
For his part, LBS Director Fahngon praised the President for his clear vision and unwavering support for the national media institution, stressing that the project is a historic turning point for LBS.
“For the first time in decades, LBS is on a firm path to becoming a fully modernized, professional media institution,” Mr. Fahngon stated. “With this level of leadership and international support, we will serve the Liberian people with pride and excellence,” he added.
Also speaking, Ambassador Yin Chengwu, China’s Ambassador to Liberia, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to Liberia’s development and highlighted the importance of strong media institutions in fostering national dialogue, transparency, and mutual understanding.
“The People’s Republic of China is proud to stand with the Government and people of Liberia in this transformative journey,” Ambassador Yin said. “This project is not just about buildings, it is about empowering a nation with the tools to tell its story, educate its citizens, and strengthen democratic governance.”
The Chinese-funded LBS modernization project includes the construction of state-of-the-art studios, digital transmission infrastructure, newsroom facilities, administrative offices, and training spaces.
The ongoing project is expected to significantly improve the coverage, quality, and reach of LBS services nationwide and in the diaspora.
The initiative falls squarely within the framework of President Boakai’s “ARREST” Agenda, which prioritizes Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism.
The LBS project stands as a key pillar under the Education and Rule of Law components, ensuring that citizens are informed, engaged, and empowered through reliable and professional broadcasting.
