Boakai Faces Nation in Media Engagement-Highlights Achievements, National Development Plans

MONROVIA – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai made his first nationwide media appearance last Friday, addressing the nation through the state-owned ELBC. He highlighted his administration’s achievements in its second year and shared his vision for national renewal moving forward, emphasizing leadership by example, infrastructure development, reconciliation, and long-term economic transformation as key pillars of his government. In that landmark media engagement, Boakai took questions from both public and private media outlets, showcasing his commitment to national development amidst widespread citizen interest in his policies on rule of law and governance, transparency and accountability. THE ANALYST’S Anthony Q. Jiffan, Jr. reports.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Friday used a wide-ranging radio appearance on ELBC to reaffirm his administration’s vision for national renewal, stressing leadership by example, infrastructure development, reconciliation, and long-term economic transformation as central pillars of his government.

Speaking about his personal background, President Boakai said his motivation for seeking national leadership was rooted in lived experience, not ambition for title. Recalling his early life, he noted that he understands hardship firsthand and remains deeply aware of the daily struggles of ordinary Liberians.

“I wanted a leadership that would lead this country by example,” the President said. “I know what people go through. Even as I ride in cars with tinted windows, I know that people are suffering and need help. That reality lives with me.”

President Boakai described his presidency as a “rescue mission,” emphasizing that the country he inherited faced serious challenges, including poor road networks, lack of electricity, high transportation costs, food insecurity, and limited access to quality education.

He explained that many Liberians had become accustomed to hardship, but that did not make the situation acceptable.

“People needed electricity, good roads, affordable food, and better schools for their children,” he said. “That situation had to change.”

Framing his leadership in moral terms, the President said his Christian faith compels him to act where others might remain indifferent. “If you know to do good and you don’t do it, that is wrong,” he stated, adding that young people in particular need a leadership that genuinely cares about their future.

Roads as the Backbone of Development

According to President Boakai, his development agenda is focused on the expansion of Liberia’s road network, which he described as essential to economic growth, affordable prices, and national integration.

“Without roads, you can’t get anywhere,” he said, citing improvements in access to southeastern Liberia, noting that areas once unreachable can now be accessed within a single day, dramatically reducing transportation costs and the price of basic goods.

Among major projects outlined, the President announced plans for a four-lane, toll-free highway from the St. Paul Bridge to Bo Waterside, additional road connections toward Totota, and feeder roads linking communities such as Menekoma and Salayea.

These projects, he said, are intended to open the country to commerce and empower young entrepreneurs.

Reconciliation and Accountability for the Past

Addressing Liberia’s history of conflict, President Boakai acknowledged the unresolved legacy of atrocities committed during the civil war years.

He criticized past legal decisions that shielded perpetrators from accountability, warning that such actions undermined Liberia’s international standing.

The President emphasized that reconciliation must be built on truth, confession, and repentance. He pointed to executive actions taken by his administration to recognize crimes committed in the past, engage the international community honestly, and promote national healing.

He cited symbolic reconciliation efforts, including reburial ceremonies and national prayer initiatives, as steps toward unity.

The President indicated that these actions have helped foster a renewed sense of optimism among citizens at home and abroad.

“Go to the diaspora,” he said. “People feel happier. The streets are cleaner. Roads are being built. The country is opening up.”

Rebuilding Trust and the Economy

President Boakai acknowledged that his administration inherited significant financial and diplomatic challenges, including unpaid international obligations that limited Liberia’s eligibility for leadership roles and investment opportunities.

“We had to rebuild relationships and make good on our obligations,” he said, explaining that major contracts and international investments require lengthy negotiations and legislative approval.

He outlined a shift in economic strategy, particularly in the mining sector, stressing that Liberia should move beyond exporting raw materials to adding value domestically.

“We don’t just want to ship iron ore,” he said. “We want to process it here and create jobs.”

The President also revealed ongoing discussions with international partners, including airlines and foreign investors interested in shipbuilding, housing development, and other large-scale projects.

While acknowledging public impatience, he cautioned that meaningful job creation and industrial development take time.

Power, Infrastructure, and the MCC Compact

On the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) compact, President Boakai highlighted Liberia’s rapid qualification for a new agreement, achieved within nine months. He said the funds will prioritize electricity, road infrastructure, and health services.

According to the President, expanded electricity access will stimulate small businesses and create new opportunities across both urban and rural communities.

Improved roads, he added, will also allow the government to better monitor and benefit from Liberia’s natural resources.

Sanitation and Urban Renewal

Turning to sanitation, President Boakai acknowledged the severe waste management challenges facing Monrovia, a city now far more populated than originally planned.

He noted that unregulated construction and blocked waterways have worsened flooding and public health risks.

The President announced collaborative efforts between the Paynesville City Corporation and the Monrovia City Corporation, alongside private partners, to introduce recycling initiatives and modern waste disposal systems.

He said plastic waste, which can take centuries to decompose, will be a key focus of recycling efforts.

“These initiatives will not only clean the city but also create jobs,” he said, stressing that plans are underway to acquire waste removal trucks and relocate disposal sites.

Recognizing the sensitive nature of some urban reforms, including the clearing of congested or improperly used spaces, President Boakai stressed the need for public understanding and cooperation.

Looking Ahead

As he concluded the interview, President Boakai reassured Liberians that while progress may seem gradual, systems are being put in place to ensure sustainable change.

“This is not about Joe Boakai,” he said. “It is about the future of our people—our young people, our women, and generations to come.”

He expressed confidence that by the end of the year, visible improvements in sanitation, infrastructure, and public services will signal that Liberia is firmly on a path toward recovery and growth.