About Liberia
History
Liberia, from the Latin “liber” meaning “freedom,” was founded by former American slaves in 1847, with Monrovia as its capital. Social division between the newcomers and the indigenous population eventually resulted in the Liberian Civil War in 1989, led by Charles Taylor. After peace talks in 2003, Taylor stepped down and was convicted of war crimes. Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Africa’s first female president, served two terms until 2017. Former footballer George Weah succeeded her after democratic elections. He, in turn, lost the elections and ceded the presidency to Joseph Boakai in 2024.
Natural wealth
Liberia, with 96,000 km² of tropical rainforest and fertile land, is home to diverse plants and minerals, including rice, bananas, cocoa, iron ore, diamonds, and gold. Despite these resources, it remains one of the world’s poorest countries, with much of its food imported and local industries under foreign control.
Since the civil war, security issues, corruption, unemployment, and crime have posed threats to socio-political and economic stability.
Reality
Liberia still faces the aftermath of civil war and multiple health crises – including Ebola and Covid-19 – resulting in poor economic development and an unstable society.
The country’s situation is characterized by a low international investment, high unemployment – youth unemployment is estimated to be as high as 85% – and low literacy levels. The key to recovery lies in empowering the younger generation through quality education and encouraging self-initiative and self-employment. This is an essential element for the nation’s recovery.