Says Minister Piah
By Amos Harris
Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia’s Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Hon. Jeremiah M. Piah, has characterized President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s ongoing diplomatic visit to Washington, D.C., as a significant stride towards strengthening international partnerships, fostering national development, and reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability.
Speaking to journalists during the Ministry’s regular press briefing on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Monrovia, Minister Piah underscored the importance of the President’s visit. While specific details of the trip remain confidential, he noted that it unmistakably reflects Liberia’s burgeoning prominence on the global diplomatic stage.
“President Boakai’s presence in Washington is not an ordinary event. The United States remains the most powerful nation in the world. When they host our leader or extend an invitation, it is not merely ceremonial—it’s a signal of trust, cooperation, and shared commitment,” Minister Piah stated. He emphasized that such engagements are crucial for bilateral development and must be viewed through the lens of long-term strategic partnerships.
Minister Piah cautioned against premature speculation surrounding the President’s U.S. engagements. While official communications regarding meetings or agreements are still anticipated, he stressed that Liberia’s inclusion in such high-level discussions signifies renewed confidence in the country’s governance and foreign relations.
“Every administration has a different diplomatic approach. But this visit demonstrates that Liberia is firmly on the radar of international powers. That alone speaks volumes about the direction we are headed,” he noted.
Minister Piah also provided updates on key infrastructure projects, highlighting the Boakai administration’s resolve to deliver on long-standing promises. He specifically pointed to the rehabilitation of critical road networks, particularly those connecting the Roberts International Airport (RIA) to the Freeport of Monrovia—vital arteries for commerce and connectivity.
“For years, we’ve heard talk about fixing these roads. Today, we are seeing action. The Ministry of Public Works is carrying out what I call an ‘octopus-style’ outreach, extending development into even the most remote areas,” he said. He recalled his own past challenges traversing undeveloped routes and lauded the administration’s strategic planning, which now prioritizes accessibility and inclusivity in national infrastructure development.
According to Minister Piah, one of the most notable achievements under the Boakai administration is the recent launch of nighttime navigational operations at the Freeport of Monrovia. This milestone, spearheaded by the National Port Authority (NPA), enables 24-hour shipping activities for the first time in Liberia’s maritime history.
“This is not just a logistical change; it’s a catalyst for job creation, expanded trade, and the repositioning of Liberia as a competitive maritime hub in West Africa,” he declared.
In the agricultural sector, Minister Piah announced a groundbreaking development: the launch of Liberia’s own FAO Situation Room. Recently inaugurated in Rome under the leadership of Agriculture Minister Dr. Elizabeth Wiles-Belong, this facility is poised to revolutionize the sector.
“This facility puts Liberia at the forefront of agricultural modernization. It will allow real-time data monitoring, emergency response, and effective coordination in food systems,” he explained. “It’s a critical tool in our fight for food security and resilience.” He noted that this development positions Liberia as a regional leader in innovative agricultural governance, a sector long hampered by outdated systems and inefficiencies.
Turning to aviation and institutional reforms, Minister Piah disclosed that the government has commenced restructuring efforts at the Roberts International Airport (RIA), including the retirement of over-aged and redundant staff. These measures, he affirmed, are in full compliance with national labor laws and Civil Service Agency (CSA) regulations.
“We are reforming for results. Efficiency is key to our aviation sector and public institutions. Cleaning up our personnel structure ensures we are lean, capable, and ready to meet global standards,” he said.
In the fight against corruption and public asset mismanagement, Minister Piah revealed the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that strengthens the Assets Recovery and Property Retrieval Taskforce, led by renowned anti-graft prosecutor Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin. The MoU facilitates data sharing across nearly 20 government agencies, streamlining efforts to trace, recover, and return stolen public assets. It forms part of the Boakai administration’s broader drive to institutionalize transparency and combat impunity.
“This is not just paperwork; it’s a coordinated strike against corruption. The system we are building is designed to outlive individuals and secure institutional integrity,” Piah affirmed.
As Liberia continues to navigate its post-war recovery, Minister Piah also reflected on the country’s journey toward national healing. He announced that the National Healing and Reconciliation Program will officially launch on Saturday, July 5, 2025, with a memorial honoring the more than 250,000 lives lost during Liberia’s civil wars and related crises.
“The trauma we carry as a nation must be addressed. The President’s presence abroad and the ceremonies we hold at home are part of the same mission: rebuilding our national dignity, restoring hope, and uniting all Liberians,” he said with solemn resolve. The program is expected to bring together survivors, victims’ families, religious and traditional leaders, civil society actors, and international partners in a unified call for reconciliation and sustainable peace.
Minister Piah reaffirmed the Boakai administration’s unwavering dedication to national development, guided by the principles of good governance, citizen participation, and strategic global engagement.