Published: March 20, 2026
KAKATA, Margibi County— President Joseph Nyumah Boakai on Thursday urged Liberians to stop what he described as persistent complaints about government development initiatives and instead support efforts aimed at transforming the country’s infrastructure and economy.
Speaking at the commissioning of a model senior secondary school in Kakata, constructed under the Ministry of Education’s Improving Results in Secondary Schools (IRISE) project with funding from the World Bank, Boakai emphasized that his administration is focused on long-term development rather than short-term consumption.
“We are not a hand-to-mouth government,” the president said. “When the yellow machines come, they are not to be eaten—they are meant to bring development. We don’t want our people to be beggars; we want to open up the country so farmers can produce and send their children to good schools.”
The president’s remarks come amid growing public criticism over the pace of economic relief and rising cost of living, with some citizens questioning whether large-scale infrastructure investments directly address immediate needs.
Boakai maintained that Liberians “deserve not just more, but the best,” adding that the government’s development agenda is intended to create lasting impact across sectors, including education, agriculture and road connectivity.
He also cautioned citizens against seeking opportunities abroad, noting that Liberia has the potential to provide similar opportunities if properly developed. “We must change our mindset and ensure that our resources are used for the benefit of our people,” he said, referencing the trend of families sending children to countries such as Rwanda for schooling.
The Liberian leader expressed optimism that the newly commissioned schools would help reset standards in the education sector. He noted that his administration, with support from development partners, is working to improve learning conditions and end practices such as students sitting on bare floors.
Boakai further urged cabinet ministers and other government officials to remain focused on their responsibilities and avoid distractions from social media criticism.
“Let them go on Facebook and say what they want,” he said. “Your commitment is to your country—stay focused on doing the people’s work.”
The event marked the commissioning of one of three model schools expected to enhance access to quality education and support the government’s broader development agenda.
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