The Government of Liberia has announced a wide-ranging package of strategic interventions aimed at accelerating national growth, strengthening public safety, and improving the overall well-being of citizens.
The updates were provided Thursday by Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Jerolinmek M. Piah, during the Ministry’s regular press briefing.
Major Infrastructure Push
Minister Piah identified infrastructure as a central pillar of the government’s development agenda. He reported significant progress on the long-neglected Bolahun Junction–Babo Road in Lofa County, which has been impassable for six years cutting residents off from basic services, trade routes, and economic opportunities.
“The road is not paved, but it has become totally unusable,” Piah explained. “Since coming to power, the government began restoring natural road conditions to ensure vehicles can move without getting stuck.”
A groundbreaking ceremony for the full construction of the Babo Road is scheduled for Friday at Bolahun Junction. Local communities, who have long endured isolation due to the road’s deterioration, see the project as a transformative step expected to revive trade, attract investment, and improve livelihoods throughout the region.
Strengthening National Security and Public Safety.
On national security, Minister Piah highlighted ongoing efforts to modernize the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL), calling the institution “a force for good.” Several traditional units have been reactivated, including the Engineering Battalion, which became fully operational earlier this year. The Agricultural Battalion—activated on February 6, 2025, under Major General David Singh—recently completed its first post-war storm-rescue mission and has begun producing farm harvests on a three-month cycle, with full output expected by year’s end.
“These initiatives strengthen food security, improve military training, and build self-reliance,” Piah noted.
On the Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency.
The Liberia Drug Enforcement Agency also reported significant breakthroughs in its fight against illegal drugs. Recent seizures include 3.43 units of cocaine valued at US$183,804; 9,377.98 units of marijuana valued at US$741,500; 108.46 units of tramadol worth US$373,854.99; and 2.14 units of drug precursors valued at US$4.4 million.
“Drug traffickers are determined to destroy the young generation. Liberia faces a real threat if urgent action is not taken,” Piah warned.
He outlined the LDEA’s 2026 strategic plan, which includes the procurement of new vehicles, recruitment of 200 additional officers, and a multi-sectoral approach integrating law enforcement, health, and education. Youth-focused outreach programs are also planned, targeting more than 100,000 at-risk young people nationwide.
