Celebrating Leadership and Innovation: A Meeting of Minds in Liberia
A Historic Gathering
On July 22, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai welcomed Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), to Monrovia. This occasion marked a significant moment in Liberian history, as it brought together key figures from all branches of government—executive ministers, legislative leaders, the Chief Justice, and heads of state-owned enterprises. The gathering took place at the Ellen Johnson Sirleaf Ministerial Complex and was not only a tribute to the fruitful partnership between Liberia and the AfDB but also an opportunity for Dr. Adesina to share valuable insights as he approaches the end of his tenure in August 2025.
Recognizing Contributions
During his opening remarks, President Boakai praised Dr. Adesina’s contributions over the past decade, emphasizing that his leadership exemplifies how “bold ideas, clear vision, and determination” can yield remarkable results. He expressed how the AfDB’s investments have profoundly improved lives across Africa, particularly in Liberia.
The symbolism of unity was evident, as the participation of all three branches of government demonstrated Liberia’s collective respect for Dr. Adesina’s leadership and his impactful endeavors at the AfDB.
A Legacy of Investment
In his keynote address, titled "Liberia: Arise, and Shine!", Dr. Adesina reflected on the transformative partnership with Liberia, highlighting a staggering $1.02 billion in investments since 1967. These funds have been directed toward 72 projects, including:
- Development of nearly 2,500 kilometers of electricity transmission lines, linking Liberia to Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, and Guinea.
- The Liberia Energy Efficiency and Access Project, which provided nearly 40,000 new grid connections.
- Construction of 177 kilometers of new roadways, including vital corridors like Fish Town-Harper and Karloken to Fish Town.
The day was particularly significant as it marked the launch of the Liberia Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Bank (YEIB). This groundbreaking initiative, costing $17 million, positions Liberia as the first African nation to create a dedicated financial institution focused on empowering young people aged 18-35 to pursue entrepreneurship and contribute to national development.
Beyond Numbers: Real Impact
President Boakai stressed that the AfDB’s contributions go beyond mere figures on a balance sheet. Each project represents tangible benefits: roads connecting communities, electricity illuminating homes, and agricultural initiatives bolstering food security.
Dr. Adesina, drawing on his experience as Nigeria’s former Minister of Agriculture, offered a framework for effective governance. His seven-point plan includes setting ambitious goals, ensuring accountability, and prioritizing institutional reform. He underscored the necessity of decisive action, stating that ineffective performers should not occupy valuable resources and that rewarding success is essential for progress.
Encouraging Sustainable Growth
Adesina proposed a "One Government approach” and the establishment of a presidential awards program to foster inter-agency collaboration. He urged Liberia to capitalize on its rich resources, stating emphatically, “With your vast natural resources, Liberia has no business being poor.” He argued that exporting raw materials leads to poverty, while creating value-added products could pave the way for prosperity.
In a dynamic Q&A session, Adesina emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education, particularly given that 60% of Liberia’s population is under 35. Responding to inquiries about achieving fiscal goals, he stressed the urgency of addressing revenue leakages, which cause Africa to lose around $88 billion annually to illicit financial flows.
The Road Ahead
Sannah Ziama, a local investor, highlighted the necessity of sustained investments in renewable energy, particularly solar power, to unlock Liberia’s full industrial potential.
As a low-income nation in transition, Liberia continues to benefit from the African Development Fund’s concessional loans and support, including the Transition Support Facility and the Nigeria Trust Fund. The country is also involved in the Mission 300 initiative, a collaborative effort between the AfDB and the World Bank aimed at providing electricity to 300 million Africans by 2030.
A Lasting Legacy
In recognition of his contributions, President Boakai awarded Dr. Adesina a Presidential Pin of Honour. Adesina, who previously received Liberia’s highest honor—the Order of the Star of Africa, Grade of Grand Band—in 2018, leaves behind a formidable legacy. "Dr. Adesina, your impact on Liberia will be felt for years to come," President Boakai affirmed. "Thank you for believing in the potential of our nation and investing in our youth."
The event represented more than a meeting; it was a reaffirmation of Liberia’s path toward sustainable development and a celebration of the legacies that drive it forward, paving the way for future generations to shine.
