26/01/2026
If you never had the time to listen or read the President's SONA today, here is a summary of what he delivered:
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s 2026 State of the Nation Address focused on moving Liberia from fixing problems to delivering real results. He said his government has spent the past two years stabilizing the country and is now ready to show practical outcomes that improve people’s lives.
Governance and Democracy:
The President began by condemning the Capitol Building arson, calling it an attack on democracy. He assured Liberians that the case is still under investigation and that anyone found guilty will be punished. He stressed that Liberia will not move backward and that the rule of law will be respected.
He praised the Legislature for passing key laws but urged lawmakers to quickly pass important pending bills, especially those on civil service reform, anti-corruption, presidential transition, and land disputes. He made it clear that strong institutions—not individuals—are key to national progress.
Economy:
President Boakai said the economy is now stronger and more stable than before. According to him:
1. The economy grew by 5.1% in 2025
2. Inflation dropped to 4%, the lowest in over 20 years
3. Foreign reserves increased
Exports grew strongly
4. The Liberian dollar became more stable
He said Liberia raised more domestic revenue than ever before, meaning the country is relying less on donors. This made it possible to pass the largest national budget in Liberia’s history for 2026.
Donor Support and Foreign Relations:
The President admitted that donor funding dropped suddenly in 2025, which caused hardship. However, the government managed the situation by tightening spending and protecting health and education services.
He highlighted Liberia’s renewed international trust, including:
* Reaffirmed MCC Compact eligibility
*Election to the UN Security Council (2026–2027)
*Stronger ties with the US, EU, China, Africa, and others
Jobs, Prices, and Cost of Living:
President Boakai said his government worked to make life more affordable:
1. Rice, flour, and fuel prices have gone down
2. Fuel supply and storage improved
3. Over 70,000 short- and medium-term jobs were created
He announced plans to support youth businesses, agriculture, and skills training to create more sustainable jobs.
Development and Infrastructure:
Under the ARREST Agenda, the government invested heavily in:
1. Road construction and maintenance
2. Electricity expansion, including rural areas
3. Ports, airports, and public transport
4. Digital transformation and mobile money
He said roads now connect more counties, electricity access has expanded, and public transport buses are back on the road.
Social Sectors:
The President reported progress in:
Education: hiring teachers, removing ghost names, school feeding, desks, digital learning
1. Health: fewer maternal deaths, better vaccines, fewer medicine shortages
2. Water and sanitation: new water systems and pipeline projects
3. Social protection: support for women, children, and vulnerable households
4. Youth development: skills training, jobs, sports, and anti-drug programs
5. Housing: plan to build 600 housing units across counties
Anti-Corruption and Accountability:
President Boakai said fighting corruption is a priority. His government:
1. Prosecuted and disciplined corrupt officials
2. Strengthened audits and asset declaration
3. Improved public procurement systems
4. Increased compliance with audit findings
Reconciliation and Justice
He spoke about national healing, including:
1. Reburial of former presidents
2. Apology for past state actions
3. Steps toward a War and Economic Crimes Court.
He said reconciliation must include justice, not forgetting the past.
In closing, President Boakai said Liberia is stronger than a year ago, but challenges remain. He promised to:
1. Review unfair concession agreements
Fix public buildings
2. Address city planning and land issues
3. Govern with humility and service
His main message was clear:
Leadership is about service, results, and putting Liberia first.
What are your thoughts?
