President Joseph Nyuma Boakai has reaffirmed his government’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing the infrastructure development of the Port of Buchanan as a vital component to the economic transformation of the nation.
The President committed on Saturday, April 5, 2025, when he toured the port’s facilities in Grand Bassa, stressing that the government needs the Port of Buchanan now more than ever before.
The Liberian leader disclosed that the ports of Liberia serve as the gateway to the economy; their efficiency and development are essential to the country’s economic viability.
President Boakai told reporters that his trip to Buchanan was initially to visit the father of Senate President Pro-Tempore, Hon. Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence upon her request, but he took the opportunity to visit the Port—a visit he had already planned.
“If there is any development so far, that’s what we are talking about. If there is none, we will talk about it as well,” Boakai noted.
During the visit, the Director of the Port of Buchanan, Jonathan Lambort Kaipay, extended gratitude to the president for the historic visit and briefed him on ongoing challenges, including the deteriorating breakwater, which continues to pose serious operational risks.
He noted that the NPA is collaborating with strategic technical partners to undertake a comprehensive assessment covering coastal defense, expansion, and long-term development of the Port of Buchanan.
Also speaking, National Port Authority (NPA) Deputy Managing Director for Administration James R. Bernard said the president’s visit underscored the government’s resolve to improve port infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth and national development.
Barnard expressed appreciation to the president for his ongoing support and leadership, reiterating the NPA’s commitment to transforming Liberia’s ports into world-class gateways for trade and investment.
The National Port Authority over the past months has successfully met the U.S. Coast Guard’s International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) compliance standards, elevating its security profile to international benchmarks at the Ports of Buchanan and the Freeport of Monrovia, a new lighting infrastructure has been installed, enhancing visibility and safety for both personnel and docking vessels which cover the Freeport of Monrovia and the Port of Buchanan and the Port of Greenville.
