GoL and EU Sign €25 Million Financing Agreement to Boost Private Sector Development

Monrovia, June 16, 2025 — Liberia’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Hon. Augustine Kpehe Ngafuan, and the European Union Ambassador to Liberia, H.E. Nona Deprez, have signed a €25 million financing grant agreement for the Private Sector Development in Liberia Project.

The project aims to strengthen value addition in Liberia’s cassava, fisheries, and wood processing sectors, with a strong focus on supporting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).

It is designed to promote self-sufficiency, reduce import dependency, and stimulate net export growth—while creating sustainable and inclusive economic opportunities.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ambassador Deprez reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Liberia’s inclusive development.

“We are very honored to be here again today to sign this financing agreement on private sector development,” she said.

“This is a realistic package aligned with Liberia’s ARREST agenda, our Team Europe Initiative on food sustainability, and the broader Global Gateway Strategy.

We aim to foster women’s empowerment, youth entrepreneurship, and decent working conditions, especially in agriculture, fisheries, and forestry.”
Ambassador Deprez also underscored the EU's intent to work closely with Liberian institutions—including the Ministry of Commerce, National Investment Commission, and the Central Bank of Liberia—to ensure effective implementation and long-term sustainability.

Speaking on behalf of the Liberian Government, Minister Ngafuan praised the EU as a steadfast partner and reaffirmed Liberia’s commitment to enabling the private sector as the engine of economic growth.

“Each time we meet, good things happen for our country,” he said. “Today, we are here to sign an agreement that will drive real change in our private sector.

It’s no longer enough to talk about private sector-led growth—we must act. And this €25 million grant will help us walk that talk.”
Minister Ngafuan highlighted that the project will also enhance public-private dialogue and policy reform, contributing to a more conducive business environment.

He noted ongoing government efforts to reduce the cost of doing business, including improvements in road connectivity, expanded port services, and more reliable electricity—all critical enablers of private sector development.

“This support is timely and on point,” he added. “Jobs won’t come from government alone. The private sector must lead the way, and this project will help ensure that the cassava, fisheries, and wood processing industries truly thrive and create jobs for our people.”

The Private Sector Development in Liberia Project will focus on increasing productivity and improving standards to meet export market requirements and environmental sustainability goals.

It will also support regulatory reforms, expand access to finance for MSMEs, and foster stronger coordination between the public and private sectors.

This agreement builds on a series of ongoing collaborations between the EU and the Government of Liberia. Most recently, the EU committed approximately €62 million to support various development initiatives, including public financial management and regional energy projects.

Vice President Koung's Delegation Visit to China: Strengthening Ties and Fostering Cooperation

Vice President Jeremiah Koung commenced his official visit to China with a tour of the Sany Heavy Machinery Factory in Changsha City, marking a pivotal step in evaluating equipment for Liberia's acquisition of 285 construction vehicles.

During his meeting with Sany executives, VP Koung underscored the importance of ensuring value for money, while reaffirming the Boakai-Koung administration's commitment to infrastructure development and national progress.

Later in the day, the Vice President and his delegation proceeded to Jining City in Shandong Province, where they were warmly received by leadership from Shantui Construction Machinery Company LTD. In discussions with Shantui executives, VP Koung expressed Liberia's strong interest in forging long-term partnerships.

Shantui, renowned for its expertise in bulldozer production and automated machinery, demonstrated enthusiasm for potential collaboration with Liberia.

The day concluded with a banquet hosted in honor of Vice President Koung by the Municipal Government of Jining City at the Sheng Du Hotel, serving as a gesture of goodwill and a strengthening of diplomatic ties between the two nations.

VP Koung was accompanied by key Liberian officials, including Minister of Public Works Roland Giddings, PPCC Executive Director Bodger Scott Johnson, GSA Deputy Director Robert Wilson, and Assistant Budget Minister Sarah Mulbah, signaling a coordinated government effort behind this critical infrastructure initiative.

Road pavement in River Cess County has seen significant improvements, ensuring easy access to southeast Liberia despite the onset of the rainy season.

For the past three months, road users have navigated the region with ease, unlike previous years when vehicles would get stuck for weeks. Travellers utilizing the route from Buchanan through River Cess County to the southeast have attested to the notable enhancements, underscoring the positive impact of road rehabilitation on their journeys.

Businesspeople, farmers, and development partners now enjoy unimpeded access. In contrast to previous years, when vehicles would encounter difficulties as early as May and June, this year's improvements have ensured seamless travel.

The road enhancements are part of Boakai's "100 Days Deliverables" initiative, a 2-year contract aimed at regular road maintenance. The road from Buchanan through River Cess to the southeast was divided into three sections, with different road construction companies contracted for each part.

The Robust Group of Company is responsible for maintaining the corridor from Buchanan to Cestos Junction in River Cess, while the Mende Construction Company oversees the section from Cestos Junction to the Cestos Bridge in ITI.

The SSF construction company is tasked with maintaining the portion from ITI to Greenville, Sinoe County. The only exception is the Cestos junction to the Cestos part of the road.

Maintenance works include side clearing, culvert construction, and routine grading, ensuring the roads remain accessible throughout the year.

Road pavement in River Cess County has seen significant improvements, ensuring easy access to southeast Liberia despite the onset of the rainy season.

For the past three months, road users have navigated the region with ease, unlike previous years when vehicles would get stuck for weeks. Travellers utilizing the route from Buchanan through River Cess County to the southeast have attested to the notable enhancements, underscoring the positive impact of road rehabilitation on their journeys.

Businesspeople, farmers, and development partners now enjoy unimpeded access. In contrast to previous years, when vehicles would encounter difficulties as early as May and June, this year's improvements have ensured seamless travel.

The road enhancements are part of Boakai's "100 Days Deliverables" initiative, a 2-year contract aimed at regular road maintenance. The road from Buchanan through River Cess to the southeast was divided into three sections, with different road construction companies contracted for each part.

The Robust Group of Company is responsible for maintaining the corridor from Buchanan to Cestos Junction in River Cess, while the Mende Construction Company oversees the section from Cestos Junction to the Cestos Bridge in ITI.

The SSF construction company is tasked with maintaining the portion from ITI to Greenville, Sinoe County. The only exception is the Cestos junction to the Cestos part of the road.

Maintenance works include side clearing, culvert construction, and routine grading, ensuring the roads remain accessible throughout the year.

𝗔𝗳𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗔𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘀 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗶𝗯𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗻 𝗖𝗶𝘁𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽

A bill seeking to allow Black Americans to obtain Liberian citizenship has been forwarded to the House Committees on Internal Affairs and Judiciary for scrutiny.

The Plenary of the House of Representatives reached the decision Thursday, 5 June, during its 8th Day, sitting on of the 2nd Quarter of the 2nd session of the 55th Legislature.

The lawmakers' decision was predicted on the submission of a Bill titled “An Act To Grant Eligible Black Americans Honorary Citizenship of Liberia” by Rep. Bernard Blue Benson of Electoral District 17 Montserrado County.

When enacted into legislation, it will provide economic boost in the tourism sector.

“This bill, if passed, will be an economic game changer for our country with the possibilities of attracting billions of dollars in our economy, especially our tourism sector”. Rep. Bernard Blue Benson stated in his communication.

Following the reading and floor debate on the instrument, the Plenary mandated the Committees on Internal Affairs and Judiciary to review the proposed law and advise the body in two weeks.

PUL Clarifies Vacant Leadership Positions Amid Recent Conduct of Two Members

(02 June 2025): The leadership of the Press Union of Liberia (PUL) wishes to make a clear and definitive statement regarding the status of the vacant positions of Secretary General and Assistant Secretary General. The decision made by the erstwhile court-mandated Interim Committee to declare these positions vacant is final and non-negotiable, unless reversed by the general membership.

This clarification aims to dispel any misconceptions surrounding the availability of these roles to the two members who, after being elected, declined to take the constitutionally required oath of office. Regrettably, both individuals boycotted the induction ceremony held on October 1, 2024.

The PUL leadership finds the recent action of these members disrespectful, particularly their statement posted late on Saturday, May 31, 2025, on social media, wherein they proclaimed their intent to "resume full execution of our duties," effective June 2.

For the record, the PUL leadership is NOT aware of any formal agreement or ceremony by which the two members concerned would, in their own words, “effective June 2nd … resume full execution of … duties” at the PUL.

Their choice to publicize their intentions on social media, rather than consulting with the PUL leadership, is viewed as a significant breach of protocol, akin to the disrespect exhibited to the court mandated Interim Committee and the general membership.

This conduct undermines the genuine efforts of the PUL leadership and the Executive Committee, who have been actively engaged since November 2024 in seeking viable solutions concerning the announced vacancies in the face of huge institutional challenges inherited from the previous administration including a debt of nearly 30–thousand US Dollars and a deficit of public trust.

On October 17, 2024, the previous Interim Leadership, established by court order, conveyed to the Ninth Circuit Court in Gbarnga, Bong County, that new elections would be conducted for these vacant positions after the two members rejected a second change to be inducted at a separate ceremony.

Written responses received by the Interim Committee on 10 October 2024 from the two concerned members indicated their dissatisfaction with the rerun elections held on September 21, 2024, despite their participation in the process they would later deem a “violation of the PUL constitution.” Their references to a related frivolous legal case, which was later dismissed on March 5, 2025, by the Sixth Judicial Circuit, Civil Law Court of Montserrado County, further pointed to their scheme to unduly obstruct the operations of the Union.

In the interest of moving forward, it should be said that the two gentlemen were given a third opportunity to redeem their seats, when our leadership magnanimously approached them on November 28, 2024, to take the vacant seats, but they chose not to utilize the opportunity because they probably wanted to please their handlers. We sincerely sympathize with the two members, but we should never treat the PUL with contempt.

Consequently, it is imperative to clarify that at this stage no individual who has neither taken the constitutional oath of office nor been inaugurated can assume leadership roles within the PUL elected hierarchy without a unanimous or two-thirds decision by the PUL Executive Committee and the general membership. Any belief to the contrary is mistaken.

The PUL leadership firmly asserts its legal authority and reserves the right to take necessary actions to uphold the integrity of our Constitution and the Union itself. We strongly advise the concerned members to recognize this reality and act accordingly. If they genuinely seek reconciliation, they must engage through the appropriate channels within the Union, rather than resorting to social media gimmick.

In closing, while we remain committed to fostering an environment of reconciliation and unity, our dedication to professionalism, accountability, and integrity remains unwavering. This commitment is fundamental to the mission and vision of the Press Union of Liberia. In the coming days, the PUL Executive Committee will convene in its quarterly meeting, after which the general membership meeting for the first half of the year will be called.

Service to our Union is constitutional and not at own choosing and pleasure.

Breaking News:

News 9-year-old Killed by Alleged Grenade Explosion in Nimba

A 9-year-old boy has died after an object believed to be a hand grenade exploded in his hands in Sanniquellie, Nimba County.

The incident occurred around 1:55 PM on Friday in the Airfield Zone 2 Community. The victim, identified as Darling Boy Tokpah, was reportedly playing when he brought home the object, which later exploded.

His father, Prince S. Tokpah, said the blast damaged parts of their house and left the child in critical condition. He was rushed to G.W. Harley Hospital and later referred to JFK Hospital in Monrovia but died en route near Kitoma Town in Nimba County.

Police investigators, led by Inspector Josiah Teld, found metal fragments and heavy blood stains at the scene. The house was described as heavily damaged.

News𝗛𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗥𝗲𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗢𝗿𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗜𝗻𝘃𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗙𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗖𝗿𝗲𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗦𝗰𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗹

The House of Representatives has mandated its Committee on Health to investigate the alarming issue of fraudulent medical credentials within Liberia’s healthcare system.

It followed revelations that Peter Matthew George, former President of the Liberia Medical and Dental Association (LMDA), had been practicing medicine without a verified degree.

The Liberia Medical and Dental Council (LMDC) officially revoked Mr. George’s medical license in April 2025 after an extensive credential audit exposed inconsistencies in his academic qualifications.

The investigation revealed that Mr. George had falsely claimed to have obtained a medical degree from the University of Hertfordshire in the United Kingdom, an institution that does not currently offer a medical degree program.

Mr. George, who previously held the position of Chief Medical Officer at the Esther and Jereline Koung Medical Center, had been practicing medicine for over a decade before his fraudulent credentials were uncovered.

His unauthorized medical procedures, including surgeries performed at the John F. Kennedy Medical & Referral Hospital, have raised serious concerns about patient safety and regulatory oversight.

The House of Representatives’ decision to launch an official inquiry comes amid growing public outrage over the potential harm caused by unqualified medical practitioners.

Lawmakers are calling for increased accountability from the Ministry of Health, the Commission on Higher Education, and the LMDC, urging them to strengthen vetting processes to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Committee on Health has been tasked with reviewing the extent of the issue and reporting its findings to the legislature. The investigation will assess whether regulatory bodies failed in their duty to properly verify medical credentials before granting licenses to practitioners.

Lawmakers are also expected to recommend stricter policies to ensure that only qualified professionals are allowed to operate within Liberia’s healthcare system.

Public trust in medical institutions has been severely shaken by the scandal, with many citizens expressing concerns about the integrity of healthcare services. The LMDC has since announced a nationwide credential audit, requiring all medical professionals to submit updated documentation for verification.

The House of Representatives has emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that protecting citizens from unqualified medical practitioners is a top priority.

President Boakai safely return home , According to the Liberia Airport Authority (LAA), the jet suffered a tire burst while landing Thursday evening,
rendering the aircraft immobile on the runway and forcing airport authorities to cancel all scheduled flights for the night.

The aircraft has since been removed from the active section of the runway, allowing normal airport operations to continue.

In Air Authority statement issued Thursday night,
May 29, the LAA emphasized that all passengers onboard, including President Boakai and other occupants, were safely evacuated without injury, in
accordance with established airport
emergency procedures.

Public May 28, 2025