MONROVIA – The Liberian government is once again reporting significant strides in various sectors, including transportation, health, education, and security, as reported by Minister of Information Jerolinmek Matthew Piah revealed at a recent press briefing. From new buses and road infrastructure to healthcare initiatives and diaspora engagement, Piah said the government is working to drive national growth and development. The Minister’s update provides insight into the progress being made under the Boakai administration, highlighting key projects and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of Liberians. He also spoke to recent news about US government visa policy on Liberia, as The Analyst George C Flomo reports.
The Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has clarified the recent visa arrangement between Liberia and the United States, emphasizing that the new 36-month visa validity does not grant automatic long-term stay or work privileges in the U.S. He also disclosed that the National Transit Authority (NTA) has procured 35 brand-new 60-seater buses as part of government’s efforts to strengthen the national transport system, alongside several ongoing development projects under the Boakai administration.
Addressing the regular Tuesday press briefing at the Ministry of Information, Minister Piah explained that the extended U.S. visa validity period now up to three years, is a positive development for Liberians, but one that requires clear understanding.
“The 36-month visa only determines how long the visa remains valid, not how long an individual can stay in the U.S.,” Piah said. “The duration of stay is decided by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection upon arrival, whether for 10 days, 60 days, or six months.”
He further stressed that while some applicants may now be eligible for multiple-entry visas valid for up to three years, others may still receive shorter durations such as one year, six months, or even three months depending on the consular officer’s discretion during the interview.
“Not everyone who applies for a visa is automatically qualified,” the Minister noted, warning against public misconceptions that visa issuance has become automatic or “duty-free.”
Government Development and Infrastructure Drive
Turning to national development issues, Minister Piah revealed that major infrastructure works are ongoing across the country, especially as the dry season begins.
He mentioned visible progress on the Boulevard Overpass, the Robertsfield Highway, and several community road projects, reaffirming the administration’s focus on infrastructure as a key pillar of national growth.
The Minister disclosed details of a major road concession agreement between the Government of Liberia and Pedophile & Associates Inc., which will cover the upgrading of 255 kilometers of selected primary roads across the country.
These roads will include the Johnson Street–Bo Waterside corridor, St. Paul Bridge to Clay, Bo Waterside to Robertsport, and the Voinjama, Kolahun, Manikoma stretch.
According to Piah, the US$363.9 million agreement, currently before the Liberian Senate for joint committee hearing will be financed through a blended cash and debt model, with the government contributing US$145.6 million (40%) and the company raising US$218.3 million (60%).
Once completed, the roads will operate as toll roads to service the loan repayment.
NTA Boosts Public Transport with 35 New Buses
Highlighting progress in the transport sector, Minister Piah disclosed that the National Transit Authority (NTA) has taken delivery of 35 brand-new 60-seater buses, with an additional 20 smaller 18-seater buses currently en route to Liberia.
He recalled that when President Boakai’s administration assumed office, the NTA was operating with only two functional buses.
“We are pleased with the NTA management for reviving an institution that had collapsed. Moving from two to 55 buses in less than two years is transformational,” the Minister stated.
Piah also revealed that five new cargo trucks have been procured to support local farmers and small businesses in transporting goods from rural areas to markets.
Health Sector: HPV Vaccination for 500,000 Girls
In health-related updates, Minister Piah said the Ministry of Health, through its Communication and Health Promotion Unit and the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI), has launched a national media campaign to boost public awareness about the HPV vaccination.
The initiative aims to vaccinate over 500,000 adolescent girls aged 9 to 18 to prevent cervical cancer and other sexually transmitted infections.
The campaign emphasizes both school and community-based vaccinations in partnership with local influencers, aiming to promote wellness and disease prevention nationwide.
Education: Scholarships and Global Partnerships
Providing updates on the education sector, Piah disclosed that the Ministry of Education continues to implement the government’s ARREST Agenda through transformative initiatives in learning, culture, and youth empowerment.
Education Minister Dr. Jarso Maley Jallah, currently attending the UNESCO General Conference, has been advocating for foundational learning, STEM education, and the recognition of Liberian heritage sites.
The Ministry has also launched a strategic bilateral partnership with Uzbekistan to expand scholarship, exchange, and entrepreneurship opportunities for Liberian youth.
Domestically, the Ministry has launched a 32-week pilot program in Montserrado County to integrate Liberian arts, music, and drama into public school curricula, fostering national pride and creativity.
Meanwhile, the scholarship examination and interviews for local applicants will be held on November 15, 2025, across regional testing centers in all counties. Only applicants scoring 30 points and above will qualify for interviews.
Security and Maritime Preparedness
In the area of national security, Piah revealed that eight new patrol vehicles have been delivered to the Liberia National Police (LNP) to enhance mobility, visibility, and overall effectiveness.
Additionally, the National Port Authority (NPA) hosted a one-day stakeholder engagement on oil spill preparedness at its Bushrod Island headquarters. The meeting aimed to strengthen collaboration between public and private actors in preventing and managing oil spills within Liberia’s territorial waters.
The forum brought together key maritime and industrial stakeholders, including the Liberia National Coast Guard, APM Terminals, LPRC, Western Cluster, and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority, among others.
Diaspora Engagement
Minister Piah also announced plans for the Liberia Diaspora Homecoming scheduled for December 2025.
This follows the first-ever National Diaspora Conference held earlier in the U.S., which sought to strengthen ties between Liberia and its citizens abroad.
To support this initiative, Senate Pro-Tempore Nyonblee Karnga-Lawrence has established a Senate Diaspora Caucus aimed at building stronger partnerships between the Legislature and Liberians living overseas.