Published: August 14, 2026
MONROVIA — The Liberian government will convene Liberians abroad in Washington, D.C., in September for its 2026 Diaspora Annual Conference, shifting the focus from years of discussions to concrete investments, partnerships and development initiatives at home.
The conference, scheduled for Sept. 25-27 under the theme “From Dialogue to Delivery,” is expected to bring diaspora Liberians, government officials, development partners and private-sector actors together to explore ways of converting diaspora resources, expertise and networks into measurable development outcomes.
Erasmus T. Williams, head of the Office of Diaspora Affairs at the Ministry of State, announced details of the conference Thursday, Aug. 13, during the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing.
“This year’s conference will be held under the theme ‘From Dialogue to Delivery,’ marking a pivotal transition from policy conversations to tangible outcomes,” Williams said.
Turning Talk Into Investment
Williams said Liberians abroad have for years discussed returning home, investing and contributing to national development, but this year’s gathering will place greater emphasis on translating those conversations into action.
“This year’s conference will focus on translating those conversations into concrete actions and measurable investments,” he said.
According to Williams, the conference is intended to strengthen partnerships between the government and Liberians abroad while creating avenues through which their skills, resources, networks and investments can contribute to sustainable development.
The gathering will also showcase contributions already being made by diaspora Liberians in an effort to encourage others to invest in the country.
“It is also designed to promote Liberian-based investments and encourage members of the diaspora to return and take advantage of opportunities within Liberia’s growing economy,” Williams said.
Diaspora to Engage Government
Williams said the conference will provide an opportunity for Liberians abroad to engage government officials directly on challenges affecting their ability to return, establish businesses and invest in Liberia.
Those discussions, he said, are expected to help identify policies and strategies that could remove barriers to diaspora investment while supporting economic growth and job creation.
The conference is being organized through steering and planning committees involving government institutions, the private sector and development partners.
The Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs chairs the steering committee, while the Ministry of Foreign Affairs serves as co-chair.
Williams announced that Emmet Dunn, who chaired last year’s conference and previously served as Liberia’s National Orator, will again chair this year’s gathering. Presidential Political Advisor Mandela Cooper will serve as co-chair, while the Rev. Frenzy O. F. Tabla, based in Minnesota, will serve as vice chair for operations.
“The committee also includes development partners such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and other strategic partners,” Williams said.
Williams said the ultimate objective is to ensure the conference moves beyond another round of discussions and produces practical opportunities for Liberians abroad to participate directly in the country’s development.
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