MONROVIA – The Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism (MICAT) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with key national institutions to enhance Liberia’s tourism industry by improving infrastructure, data collection, and safety measures at tourism facilities across the country.
The signing ceremony was held on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at the Ministry of Information, Cultural Affairs, and Tourism, bringing together major stakeholders, including the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS), the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), the Liberia Institute of Statistics and Geo-Information Services (LISGIS), the Liberia Immigration Service (LIS), the National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA), and the Monrovia City Corporation (MCC).
In his welcome remarks, Liberia’s Information Minister, Hon. Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, stressed MICAT’s role in regulating and promoting sustainable tourism.
“MICAT has the authority to inspect all tourism sites, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. This MoU guarantees that each institution fulfills its responsibilities in making Liberia a premier tourist destination,” Minister Piah stated.
He added that the partnership strengthens Liberia’s tourism framework by integrating both national and international stakeholders to address industry challenges.
“This agreement is a vital part of our development agenda, ensuring safety in hotels, restaurants, beaches, and other tourism sites,” he concluded.
The MoU aims to foster collaboration among government agencies to position Liberia as a top tourist destination in West Africa.
Minister Piah thanked all stakeholders for their dedication, emphasizing that each institution must actively contribute to the achievement of the MoU’s objectives.
Speaking at the event, the Director of the Liberia National Fire Service, Col. Wasuwah Barvoul, emphasized the agency’s commitment to fire safety within the tourism sector.
“We will be present at all key tourism sites to ensure fire safety is a top priority,” he stated, underscoring the importance of protecting both citizens and visitors.
LISGIS Director General Richard Ngafuan highlighted the significance of data collection in advancing the tourism industry.
“Tracking tourist arrivals and trends will allow us to make informed decisions to grow the sector,” he noted.
Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency, Hon. Ansu Dorley, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting MICAT’s efforts.
“This MoU marks a significant step in revitalizing Liberia’s tourism sector,” Dorley said.
Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessel Registration at the Liberia Maritime Authority, Hon. John F. Harvey, announced plans to enhance safety at tourism sites by training lifeguards.
“We will conduct workshops and training programs for life-saving guides to protect both tourists and citizens,” he explained.
Acting Commissioner of the Liberia Immigration Service, Elijah Rufus, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration.
“The Immigration Service plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for foreign visitors,” he stated.
Representing Monrovia Mayor Jefferson T. Koijee, Madam Charlene A. Carey, Chief of Staff in the Office of the City Mayor, emphasized the city’s dedication to boosting tourism.
“This partnership will significantly enhance tourism in Monrovia and beyond,” she remarked.
For his part, MICAT’s Assistant Minister for Tourism, Atty. Dogba K. Norris Jr., reiterated the government’s commitment to tourism as a key driver of national development.
He noted that President Joseph Nyuma Boakai remains committed to supporting the sector’s growth.
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