Gov’t Provides additional highlights on Key National Achievements

By George C. Flomo

MONROVIA – The Ministry of Information on Thursday provided updates on major national initiatives and sectorial achievements during its regular press briefing, overseen by Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs, Daniel O. Sando, with preliminary remarks delivered by Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah.

Deputy Minister Sando disclosed that Liberia has witnessed a significant influx of Liberians from the diaspora over the past several weeks, particularly during the festive season, a development he attributed to the Boakai Administration’s deliberate effort to place the diaspora at the center of national development.

According to him, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai will on Thursday, January 9, 2026, host a Farewell Program marking the official close of the 2025–2026 Annual Diaspora Return Initiative. The event is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on the grounds of the Executive Mansion.

Sando explained that the initiative is a national program designed to welcome Liberians in the diaspora, African-Americans, and friends of Liberia for cultural exchange, dialogue, and engagement. The program is being organized by the Office of the President, through the Office of Diaspora Affairs, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

He noted that the occasion is expected to bring together returning diasporans, senior government officials, development partners, traditional leaders, private sector actors, and members of the diplomatic community.

Highlights of the farewell program will include special remarks from senior officials, reflections on the achievements and impact of the diaspora return initiative, and renewed calls for sustained engagement, collaboration, and partnership beyond the festive season.

NPHIL Records Major Public Health Gains

Providing updates on sectoral accomplishments, Deputy Minister Sando reported that the National Public Health Institute of Liberia (NPHIL) recorded significant progress in 2025 in strengthening national public health systems, disease surveillance, laboratory capacity, workforce development, and biosecurity.

He stated that NPHIL, working closely with the Ministry of Health and international partners, detected 278 public health events of national and global concern and effectively responded to multiple outbreaks, including Mpox and Lassa fever, across all 15 counties.

According to him, response efforts resulted in a recovery rate of approximately 94 percent, with active cases reduced to 81 across 14 counties, while minimizing social and economic disruptions.

Sando added that public health workforce capacity was enhanced through the Field Epidemiology Training Program, which trained frontline health workers in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and emergency preparedness. He disclosed that 16 functional Emergency Operations Centers were established nationwide with upgraded equipment provided by Africa CDC.

He further noted that laboratory systems were strengthened through decentralization of testing to regional laboratories and the establishment of in-country genomic sequencing, while biosafety and biosecurity measures were improved through nationwide certification and specialized training.

Refugee Commission Strengthens Governance

On refugee matters, Sando reported that between January and November 2025, the Liberian Refugee Repatriation and Resettlement Commission (LRRRC) made notable progress in strengthening governance frameworks, humanitarian support, and institutional capacity in line with the 1993 International Refugee Convention.

Key achievements, he said, included the development of a Service Delivery Charter, the validation of Executive Order No. 144, and the establishment of internal control instruments such as human resource, financial, and operational policies.

Despite these gains, Sando acknowledged that the Commission continues to face challenges, particularly inadequate budgetary support and limited logistics.

Mpox Phase II Vaccination Intensifies

Deputy Minister Sando also announced the continuation of Phase II of the Mpox vaccination campaign, led by the Ministry of Health. He said vaccination activities have intensified in eight counties, including Montserrado, Nimba, Bong, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Kru, Grand Gedeh, Grand Bassa, and Lofa.

Frontline health workers, he said, are encouraging eligible residents, particularly children aged two years and above, to take advantage of the life-saving vaccination.

IMF Concludes Article IV Consultation

Sando further disclosed that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Executive Board has concluded its 2025 Article IV Consultation and completed the second review under Liberia’s Extended Credit Facility (ECF) arrangement.

The decision allows for an immediate disbursement of SDR 19.3 million (approximately US$26.5 million), bringing total disbursements under the program to about US$79.4 million.

Liberia’s ECF arrangement amounts to US$155 million, approved in September 2024 to support macroeconomic stability, reduce debt vulnerabilities, strengthen governance, and preserve financial stability. The IMF projected economic growth at 4.6 percent in 2025 and 5.4 percent in 2026, supported by mining expansion and agricultural recovery.

Minister Piah Clears Security Concerns

Earlier, Information Minister Jerolinmek Matthew Piah used the briefing to clarify reports regarding a recent incident involving the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL) in the Sapo National Park area.

Minister Piah explained that the situation resulted from a minor misunderstanding following the government’s efforts to clear illegal occupants from the park. He emphasized that no civilians were harmed and that warning shots fired were into the air.

“The matter has been resolved, and the community and the AFL are now living together in harmony,” Minister Piah assured.

Gov’t Restores International Confidence

Minister Piah also highlighted improvements in Liberia’s international relations, noting strong partnerships with the United States, Europe, Asia, and African nations. He cited recent logistical support from international partners to the Liberia National Police, including motorcycles, uniforms, communication equipment, and protective gear.

He attributed ongoing infrastructure projects—such as the ELWA Overpass Bridge, the new LBS Broadcast Complex, and the National Reference Laboratory—to restored international confidence in Liberia’s governance.

MICAT Launches Strategic Plan

Minister Piah concluded by announcing the official launch of the MICAT Strategic Plan (2025–2030), developed under the government’s Performance Management Contract System. He said the plan will guide the Ministry’s operations and priorities over the next several years.