CBL Chief Saamoi  Wins Banking Award -Calls for Trustworthy Markets, Global Capital

MONROVIA – The Executive Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia (CBL), Hon. Henry F. Saamoi, has been honored with the African Central Banking Award at the 16th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) held at the UK House of Lords in London, in recognition of his leadership in advancing monetary stability, financial sector development, financial inclusion, and institutional reforms in Liberia. Receiving the honor, Governor Saamoi called for the strengthening of trustworthy, bankable, and investable markets across Africa as a prerequisite for attracting greater volumes of global capital to support the continent’s development agenda, declaring that when African economies deliver credible markets and institutions, global capital “will not hesitate—it will follow.” THE ANALYST reports.

Earlier, Governor Saamoi was also recognized among Africa’s Top 40 Finance Leaders, reflecting Liberia’s growing voice in continental economic and financial policy discussions, and received a certificate of recognition from the State of South Carolina House of Representatives for his contributions to promoting financial stability and inclusion in Liberia.

“Global Capital Will Follow”

Speaking during the awards ceremony on the theme “Liberia’s Capital Moment: Aligning Financial Sector Reforms with Global Investment to Drive Inclusive Growth and Sustainable Development,” Governor Saamoi emphasized that Africa’s challenge is not a lack of investment opportunities but the need to consistently build credible markets and institutions that inspire investor confidence.

He highlighted sectors where reforms are unlocking opportunities in Liberia, including agriculture and agro-processing, with high-value export potential; energy and infrastructure, foundational for industrial expansion; financial services and fintech, with rapid innovation and scalability; small and medium enterprises and local businesses, with a strong pipeline for impact investment; and tourism, an emerging sector with strong future upside.

“Africa does not lack capital opportunities. What we must deliver consistently and credibly are bankable, investable, and trustworthy markets. When we do, global capital will not hesitate—it will follow,” he declared.

The Governor noted that sustainable investment flows require sound macroeconomic management, strong institutions, transparent regulatory frameworks, deeper financial markets, and a pipeline of well-structured projects capable of attracting long-term capital.

Earlier, Governor Saamoi participated in a high-level roundtable on “Strategic Convergence: Aligning Global Capital with Africa’s Growth Imperatives,” alongside peers from Ghana, Zambia, and Tanzania.

A Collective Achievement

Reflecting on the recognition, Governor Saamoi described the award as a testament to the collective efforts of the Central Bank of Liberia and its partners in strengthening the country’s financial system.

“This recognition is not solely a personal achievement. It reflects the commitment and professionalism of the staff of the Central Bank of Liberia, our stakeholders, and the Government of Liberia, who continue to support reforms aimed at safeguarding stability, expanding financial inclusion, and creating opportunities for economic growth,” he said.

The African Business Leadership Awards brought together policymakers, finance ministers, central bank governors, financial sector leaders, investors, and development partners from across Africa and beyond to discuss strategies for accelerating the continent’s next phase of economic transformation under the theme “From Vision to Velocity: Driving Africa’s Next Wave of Growth and Leadership.”

Governor Saamoi underscored the importance of deepening Africa’s financial systems, expanding regional integration, and strengthening investor confidence through consistent reforms and effective governance.

Onward to Banjul

Following the London engagements, Governor Saamoi traveled to Banjul, The Gambia, to participate in the IMF/World Bank African Consultative Group (African Caucus) Meeting, where African finance ministers, central bank governors, and senior policymakers are convening to discuss economic resilience, sustainable growth, fiscal reforms, investment mobilization, and the continent’s engagement with the Bretton Woods Institutions.

His participation underscores Liberia’s commitment to contributing meaningfully to regional and global economic policy dialogue while advancing reforms that promote macroeconomic stability, financial sector resilience, and inclusive economic development.

The Central Bank of Liberia says it remains committed to fostering a stable and inclusive financial system that supports sustainable growth, expands access to financial services, and positions Liberia as a credible destination for investment.