President Joseph N. Boakai has challenged Liberians in the diaspora to move beyond periodic homecomings and cultural reunions and take a more direct role in rebuilding the national economy. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the annual diaspora return on Friday, January 9, 2026, at the Executive Mansion, Boakai praised the growing partnership between the Government, the United Nations, and diaspora communities, describing the gathering as evidence that Liberia is entering a new phase of reconnection with its citizens abroad.
Also, the Liberian leader acknowledged the presence of cabinet ministers, members of the diplomatic community, and the United Nations Resident Coordinator, noting that their close collaboration with the diaspora reflects a shared commitment to national development rather than politics. “This conversation has moved beyond personalities and politics. Today, it is about connecting our people who live outside the country, but are still contributing meaningfully to Liberia,” he added.
However, Boakai expressed satisfaction that members of the diaspora were traveling to counties in the southeast and other regions, calling it a sign of progress. “For too long, coming home meant coming only to Monrovia. We are committed to making sure that when you come home, you can go home, to your counties and communities,” he stated.
Meanwhile, President Boakai urged diaspora Liberians to invest in everyday services and industries, supermarkets, malls, stationery stores, health facilities, and small manufacturing—rather than waiting for foreign investors to dominate these sectors. “We cannot continue to say this is our home when everything of value belongs to somebody else. Even if you do not move back immediately, you can still take an interest and invest,” he warned.
Drawing comparisons with other African countries where citizens own major commercial infrastructure, Boakai said Liberia must now take deliberate steps toward economic self-reliance. Reflecting on Liberia’s violent past, the Liberian leader noted that despite decades of conflict and instability, the country has maintained social cohesion and relative peace—evidence, he said, of national resilience.
“For a country that went through coups, war, and deep trauma, the fact that people live, trade, and move freely today says something powerful about Liberia, adding that with better treatment of citizens and more opportunities for young people, the country’s progress could accelerate,” the President added.
