MONROVIA – In its latest regular press briefing of 2026, the Liberian government clarified the country’s position on recent developments in Venezuela while presenting a comprehensive report of achievements across agriculture, justice, commerce, revenue collection, foreign affairs, and transport. Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah emphasized that Liberia’s statements at the United Nations Security Council reflect a collective African stance rather than an independent policy. The briefing also underscored progress under the ARREST Agenda, highlighting expanded farmer outreach, justice sector reforms, revenue overperformance, MSME support, and improvements in transport infrastructure—all signaling a coordinated approach to inclusive development and national stability.

Minister Piah addressed social media claims suggesting Liberia acted independently on Venezuela, stressing that Liberia occupies a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council as part of the African Group.

“Liberia does not act on its own accord at the Security Council,” Piah said. “The seat belongs to Africa, and Liberia represents a collective African position.”

He clarified that Liberia’s statement, delivered by Ambassador Lewis G. Brown, reflected the A3 African countries’ unified stance, aligned with the African Union communiqué expressing concern over Venezuela’s political developments.

Agriculture: Expanding Reach and Food Security

The minister reported that more than 198,000 farmers were reached through government programs in 2025, with an additional 35,000 supported via partner initiatives. Climate-resilient rice production expanded across 6,500 hectares, cocoa rehabilitation covered 13,000 hectares, and gains were also recorded in cassava, vegetables, fisheries, and livestock. 166 kilometers of feeder roads were completed, reducing transport costs by about 50 percent, while over 30,500 improved cocoa seedlings were distributed.

Overall, 33,755 previously food-insecure individuals achieved food security, particularly in Grand Gedeh, Grand Cape Mount, Maryland, and River Cess counties.

Justice Sector Reforms Deepened

The Ministry of Justice focused on rule of law, human rights, and decentralization, achieving key milestones: Diversion of 422 juveniles from formal prosecution, issuance of 554 exit clearances to prevent child trafficking, psychosocial support to 67 children, and child rights awareness programs reaching over 1,200 students

Additionally, Liberia’s National Action Plan on Business and Human Rights was finalized, progress toward the War and Economic Crimes Court was made, and 14 Community Peace Hubs were established to reduce case backlogs.

Revenue Performance Exceeds Target

Liberia Revenue Authority collections stood at approximately US$818.7 million, surpassing the national target by US$4.4 million, according to Minister Piah. He attributed the achievement to improved compliance and administration, signaling strengthened fiscal discipline.

Commerce Sector Supports MSMEs

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry reported progress in trade facilitation and MSME development. The AfCFTA strategy was launched, more than 16,500 businesses were registered between 2024 and 2025, and the Growth Accelerator Program provided over US$3 million in grants to 70 SMEs. A US$6 million credit guarantee scheme expanded access to finance, while the National MSME Conference reinforced government support for “Made in Liberia” products.

Foreign Affairs: UN Agenda 2026 Unveiled

Foreign Affairs Minister Sara Beysolow Nyanti outlined Liberia’s 2026 Security Council priorities, emphasizing confidentiality, economic diplomacy, and investment promotion. Missions abroad are tasked with leveraging Liberia’s seat to attract trade partnerships and support domestic growth.

Transport Sector Achievements

The Ministry of Transport exceeded its revenue target, collecting US$10.5 million against a projected US$10.3 million. Highlights include driver and motorcyclist training, fare reductions by 18 percent, installation of road safety infrastructure, procurement of public buses, restoration of Liberia’s ECOWAS Brown Card insurance rights, and progress toward resuming Turkish Airlines flights in May 2026.