MONROVIA – As President Joseph Nyumah Boakai prepares to deliver his first in-office State of the Nation Address (SONA), many wonder: What will he say? Where was Liberia when he assumed office, and where does it stand now after completing the first year of his six-year tenure?
Boakai’s first constitutionally mandated address took place on January 22, 2024, following his inauguration. It was a moment of great expectation for a leader with extensive public service experience to outline a transformative national agenda, addressing key sectors such as security, agriculture, health, and the rule of law.
But have his promises translated into action? As Liberians both at home and abroad await today’s address, The Liberian Investigator revisits the President’s inaugural speech and the progress made since.
Revisiting January 22, 2024: Boakai’s Inaugural Promises
Boakai’s inaugural address was a charged moment, with millions tuning in via radio, television, and online platforms. Thousands gathered at Capitol Hill to hear the new President’s vision, despite the stifling heat that disrupted the event, forcing him to cut short his remarks.
“A Clarion Call for a New Liberia”
In his address, Boakai described his election as a “clarion call for a new Liberia”—a nation grounded in the rule of law and democratic governance. He acknowledged the courage of Liberians who voted and ensured their votes were protected, describing it as a mandate to end “business as usual.”
He criticized the administration of former President George Weah, promising to correct past wrongs. As Vice President under Ellen Johnson Sirleaf for 12 years, Boakai had previously lamented missed opportunities in governance, famously declaring, “We squandered opportunities.”
After narrowly winning the 2023 presidential election, Boakai committed to uniting the nation and fostering prosperity irrespective of tribal, political, or regional affiliations.
Tackling Division and Marginalization
“The truth we must face is that we are a divided society,” Boakai said. He pledged to bridge these divisions, emphasizing, “There is only one Liberia, and we share common citizenship.”
He highlighted the lingering scars of Liberia’s 14-year civil war, which claimed a quarter of a million lives. Cohesive integration remains a challenge, as political factions continue to deepen societal divides.
The ARREST Agenda
Boakai’s ambitious ARREST Agenda—Agriculture, Roads, Rule of Law, Education, Sanitation, and Tourism—was introduced as the foundation for his administration. However, it was not fully detailed until almost a year into his term.
Twelve Months On: Progress and Challenges
Public Perception
Spoon Network, a popular media establishment that actively supported Boakai’s campaign against George Weah, recently conducted a public opinion poll comparing the first year of Weah’s presidency to Boakai’s. The results favored former President Weah, with many respondents expressing dissatisfaction with Boakai’s unfulfilled promises. Issues like the rising price of rice, Liberia’s staple food, and persistently high unemployment rates were cited as key failures.
The government dismissed the poll, arguing that it failed to account for the structural reforms currently underway.
Rule of Law
In May 2024, Boakai’s government took steps toward establishing a War and Economic Crimes Court. An executive order created the Office of a War and Economic Crimes Court for Liberia, with recruitment for key positions underway. Additionally, an Assets Recovery Taskforce was formed to address illegal wealth acquisition. The Liberia National Police received new vehicles to improve operations.
Despite these strides, the government continues to struggle with implementing the promised “new way of doing things.”
Reports of police brutality persist, particularly at protest scenes. In February 2024, a protest in Kinjor over labor practices and environmental pollution by Bea Mountain turned deadly, with police using live bullets to disperse protesters, resulting in two fatalities.
In August, clashes between state security forces and supporters of the opposition Congress for Democratic Change (CDC) over alleged narcotics dealings nearly paralyzed Monrovia.
Police and other security agencies have also decried low salaries and benefits, perpetuating corruption within public service.
Education
In October 2024, Boakai launched Liberia’s first doctoral programs at the University of Liberia, emphasizing academic excellence and innovation. The programs aim to address systemic challenges and align with the ARREST Agenda’s education goals. The appointment of Dr. Layli Maparyan as UL President, signal efforts to elevate Liberia’s academic institutions.
However, funding constraints continue to limit the Ministry of Education and University of Liberia’s ability to implement significant reforms.
Agriculture
In July 2024, Boakai unveiled the National Agriculture Development Plan (NADP), targeting self-sufficiency and food security. The “Liberians Feed Yourselves” initiative emphasizes modern farming techniques and cooperative farming. While the NADP is promising, implementation challenges remain.
Health
On December 20, 2024, Boakai broke ground on a National Clinical Diagnostic and Treatment Laboratory in collaboration with China. The facility aims to fill critical healthcare gaps. However, the sector remains underfunded, with shortages in equipment and medication plaguing hospitals nationwide.
Infrastructure
Road construction and rehabilitation have progressed, with significant strides on key routes like Gbarnga-Salayea and Sanniquellie-Logatuo. Urban road maintenance projects are underway, targeting Monrovia streets. Executive orders renewing tax exemptions for energy and agricultural inputs aim to stimulate development.
Youth Empowerment
Boakai’s digital skills training program graduated 10,000 youth in December 2024, equipping them with ICT skills to enhance employability. Seed funding for entrepreneurial projects reflects the administration’s commitment to empowering Liberia’s youth.
The Economy: Challenges and Opportunities
Liberia’s economy grew by 4.7% in 2023, driven by mining and construction. However, agriculture lagged with just 1.4% growth. Inflation rose to 10.1%, exacerbated by rising food prices and currency depreciation. While an IMF-backed $210 million arrangement supports reforms, fiscal deficits and inflationary pressures remain pressing challenges.
What Will Boakai Say Today?
As Liberians await Boakai’s SONA, expectations are high. Will he address persistent challenges in governance, health, and security? Will he offer tangible solutions to economic and social disparities? One thing is certain: the nation is listening, and President Boakai’s words must inspire action.
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