President Joseph N. Boakai has officially dedicated a modern US$5.5 million broadcast complex for the Liberia Broadcasting System, describing the project as a major step toward strengthening press freedom, national communication, and Liberia’s democratic future.
Constructed through China Aid as a grant from the Government of the People’s Republic of China, the state-of-the-art facility was unveiled at the LBS Compound in Paynesville on Friday, May 8, 2026, in the presence of cabinet officials, lawmakers, diplomats, media practitioners, and senior government officials.
Speaking at the ceremony, President Boakai said the new complex represents “a proud and historic day for Liberia,” noting that the project was made possible through the support of Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom he described as “my friend and brother.”
“On behalf of the Government and people of Liberia, I extend profound gratitude to President Xi, the Government of China, and the Chinese Ambassador to Liberia for this extraordinary support and partnership,” he declared.
According to him, the facility marks a new era for public broadcasting, revealing that LBS has moved from its long-standing 2,000-kilowatt transmission system to a powerful 10,000-kilowatt capacity expected to significantly improve nationwide radio and television coverage.
The Liberian leader disclosed that the new broadcast center includes seven modern recording and broadcasting studios, a central control system, satellite broadcasting capability, and advanced technical infrastructure built to international standards. It also features a fire hydrant and water supply system designed to benefit both the institution and nearby communities.
In one of the most emotional moments of the ceremony, President Boakai announced that the complex would be named in honor of fallen Liberian journalist Charles Cornelius Gbeyon, whose life was cut short while serving the nation through journalism.
The President said the gesture sends a strong signal that his administration remains committed to protecting journalists and defending press freedom. “You may silence a journalist, but you can never silence the ideals of truth, liberty, and freedom,” the President declared to loud applause. He described the naming as a solemn recognition of the sacrifices made by journalists in Liberia and praised the presence of Gbeyon’s two children, who traveled from the United States to witness the occasion.
Reflecting on the history of LBS, founded in 1956 and formerly known as the Liberia Broadcasting Corporation, Boakai said the institution has long served as the voice of the Liberian people despite surviving years of civil conflict, destruction, and professional displacement.
He paid tribute to several broadcasting pioneers, including Tommy Raynes, Eustace Smith, Kwame Clement, Victoria Raffell, Olivia Shannon, and others whose work helped shape Liberia’s media landscape.
“Today, we proudly declare that LBS is back on track as a world-class broadcasting institution,” Boakai stated. The President said the modernization of LBS aligns with his broader vision of transforming the institution into a true public broadcasting service that promotes national unity, reconciliation, patriotism, and democratic accountability. President Boakai challenged employees of LBS to protect the new facility and ensure that its true value is reflected in professional and ethical service to the Liberian people.
“This building is now entrusted to your stewardship. Its true value will be measured by your professionalism, your integrity, and your service,” he said.
Also, Boakai reaffirmed Liberia’s friendship with China and thanking President Xi, the Chinese Ambassador, the LBS Board, and Director General Eugene Fahngon for their commitment to national development.
The dedication marks one of the most significant infrastructure upgrades for Liberia’s state broadcaster in decades and signals a renewed government push to strengthen public information systems across the country.
