The Liberia Airport Authority (LAA) has commenced the development of a long-term comprehensive strategic plan to bolster the country’s aviation infrastructure and services. The initiative, which began by enhancing the skills and capabilities of LAA’s managers, supervisors, and directors at the Roberts International Airport in Margibi County, coincided with the rollout of a meticulously crafted 10-year strategic plan designed to guide the LAA Management in its quest to strengthen LAA’s growth and improve overall airport management.
The 10-year strategic plan outlines key goals for the LAA, including infrastructural improvements, enhanced passenger services, and advanced airport safety & security, among others. The plan aims to position Liberia as a competitive player in the regional aviation landscape, fostering economic growth and improving international connectivity.
The exercise was facilitated by the President and CEO of Brakkam Aviation Management, Mr. Miguel A. Southwell, who has extensive experience in strategic aviation management. Southwell served as General Manager for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest airport. He provided participants with essential tools and methodologies needed to develop effective strategies that align with the LAA’s mission and vision.
The program emphasized the importance of strategic planning in fostering organizational growth, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing service delivery at the Roberts International Airport. Speaking during the exercise, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of LAA, Hon. Massaquoi M. Kamara, underscored the significance of having a long-term strategic plan.
He expressed the Board of Directors’ commitment to support Management in strengthening the skills of LAA’s staff. Hon. Kamara emphasized that a well-trained staff can position the Liberia Airport Authority as a leading player within the West African aviation industry, making Roberts International Airport one of the busiest airports in Africa.
For his part, the LAA’s Chief Finance Officer, Hon. George D. Yuoh, lauded the Board of Directors for their support towards improving Liberia’s only international airport, stressing management’s commitment to align the aviation sector with the Government’s ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID).
Participant feedback indicated a high level of satisfaction with the program. Many expressed appreciations for the interactive format and the applicability of the strategies used. The exercise covered various topics, including SWOT analysis, goal setting and performance measurement, allowing participants to engage in practical exercises that reinforced theoretical concepts. Attendees were encouraged to apply the knowledge gained to real-world scenarios within the LAA, fostering a collaborative environment where innovative ideas could be shared and discussed.
