President Boakai Announces Annual National Diaspora Dialogue to Drive National Development

Staten Island, New York: President Joseph N. Boakai, Sr. has announced the launch of the Annual National Diaspora Dialogue, an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration between Liberians abroad and at home to support national development.

Speaking to a large gathering of Liberians on Staten Island, the President highlighted the critical role Liberians in the Diaspora have played, particularly during challenging periods, and emphasized the importance of strengthening connections for mutual growth.

The initiative is expected to enhance Liberia's efforts in areas such as trade, tourism, education, business, and national harmony.

"This focused approach to engaging our Diaspora community will yield significant benefits for Liberia," President Boakai noted.

Hosted at Curtis High School, the event was attended by Liberians from across the U.S. as well as local officials from New York and Staten Island.

In his remarks, Mr. Erasmus Williams, Coordinator of the Diaspora Affairs Office at the Ministry of State for Presidential Affairs, announced the formation of a Steering Committee to oversee Diaspora engagement.

The committee, co-chaired by Mr. Charles Blake of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, includes representatives from the Liberian government, international organizations, and civil society groups.

Additionally, Mr. Williams introduced the Planning Committee for the Diaspora Liberians Annual Return 2024 (D-LAR24), led by Dr. Clarice F. Kulah of Georgia and Mr. Emmanuel S. Wettee of Ohio.

The goal of D-LAR24 is to showcase Liberia as a world-class destination and reconnect people with their Liberian heritage.

Planned events for D-LAR24 include: Diaspora Investment Forum, Liberian Cultural Showcase, Business Networking, Youth Engagement and Skills Development, Nationwide Heritage Match, Sports Events, including soccer and track and field.