A meeting between President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., and a group of Liberian professionals took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The discussions focused on Liberia’s contributions to peace, security, and humanitarian efforts. This meeting occurred on February 16, 2025, during the African Union Summit.
The professionals highlighted the need for Liberia to expedite the transfer of USD 20 million worth of security equipment donated by the African Union. This equipment is currently stored at the AU’s Continental Logistics Base (CLB) in Douala, Cameroon. A Liberian professional serves as the Acting Head of this base.
There was also an emphasis on increasing Liberian representation in international organizations such as ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations. The participants urged the Government of Liberia to support recruitment efforts for qualified Liberians in both senior and junior roles.
An administrative request was made regarding diplomatic passports for Liberian professionals holding senior positions or those working in conflict zones who travel extensively.
The meeting acknowledged approximately 15 to 20 Liberian professionals residing in Ethiopia and recommended consolidating an official figure to reflect their contributions accurately.
Additionally, there was a call for promoting Liberia’s historic role as a founding member of what is now known as the African Union (AU). Participants urged that Liberia’s legacy from events like the 1959 Sanniquellie conference be highlighted.
President Boakai welcomed these discussions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to leveraging Liberia’s talents globally while strengthening its position within international organizations.
This engagement underscores Liberia’s leadership on the continent and its professionals’ contributions to international development, peace, and security.
