‘More Than 70,000 Jobs Created’

By Stephanie M. Duncan

MONROVIA– President Joseph N. Boakai has placed job creation, economic expansion, and institutional reform at the center of his 2026 agenda, outlining a wide-ranging plan to strengthen livelihoods and accelerate national development during his Annual Message to the Legislature.

Speaking in fulfillment of Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution, the President said his Administration’s second year in office focused on stabilizing the economy, restoring confidence, and laying the groundwork for sustainable growth. He emphasized that job creation remains a top priority, driven by investments in infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and youth enterprise under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development.

According to the President, more than 70,000 short- and medium-term jobs have already been created across infrastructure, agriculture, social protection, and small businesses. Looking ahead, the Youth Entrepreneurship and Investment Bank, launched in 2025, is expected to support 30,000 youth-led businesses and generate over 120,000 direct and indirect jobs nationwide. A National Employment Acceleration Strategy, currently being finalized, will further expand opportunities in agriculture, public works, skills training, and small enterprise development.

On the economy, President Boakai reported that Liberia recorded 5.1 percent growth in 2025, exceeding projections and outperforming the previous year. He attributed the growth to strong performance in mining, agriculture, fisheries, and services, noting that mining alone expanded by 17 percent while exports rose by more than 31 percent. Inflation fell to 4 percent, the lowest level in over two decades, easing pressure on household incomes.

The President highlighted major investment agreements signed in 2025, including deals with ArcelorMittal Liberia and Ivanhoe for the Yekepa–Buchanan rail corridor, representing nearly US$4 billion in committed investments. The planned reactivation of the Putu Iron Ore Mine is expected to boost employment and development in Grand Gedeh County and the southeastern region, while new petroleum agreements could attract an additional US$800 million in investment.

Agriculture, described as the “heart of the ARREST Agenda,” featured prominently in the address. President Boakai said over 198,000 farmers received government support in 2025, contributing to increased rice, cocoa, and aquaculture production. Improved feeder roads and market access helped move more than 33,000 Liberians from food insecurity to food security, while expanded agribusiness and mechanization plans for 2026 are expected to create additional rural jobs.

Infrastructure development also emerged as a key driver of employment. The President reported significant progress in road construction and maintenance, with paved roads increasing from under 12 percent to about 20 percent of the national network. He announced the imminent arrival of 285 yellow machines to support road works and disaster response, a move expected to create jobs at county levels and improve connectivity for commerce.

In the energy sector, President Boakai said expanded electricity access is supporting small businesses and industrial growth. Over 63,000 new connections were made in 2025, with plans for 100,000 additional connections in 2026. Major power projects—including gas-to-power, solar, and hydropower initiatives—are expected to stimulate investment and employment while lowering production costs.

Beyond job creation, the President underscored reforms aimed at strengthening governance and accountability. He urged lawmakers to pass pending legislation, including the Presidential Transition Act, Civil Service Commission Act, and amendments to anti-corruption laws. He also announced plans to establish a National Planning Commission, a National Road Authority, and a universal health insurance program.

President Boakai concluded by reaffirming his Administration’s commitment to inclusive growth, transparency, and service to the Liberian people, noting that while progress has been made, sustained effort and unity are required. “The gains we have recorded are a foundation,” he said, “and clear proof that purposeful leadership can deliver results.”

As Liberia enters 2026, the President expressed confidence that continued investment, job creation, and reforms under the ARREST Agenda will strengthen the economy and improve the lives of citizens across the country.

Alphonso Toweh

Has been in the profession for over twenty years. He has worked for many international media outlets  including: West Africa Magazine, Africa Week Magazine, African Observer and  did occasional reporting for CNN, BBC World Service, Sunday Times, NPR, Radio Deutchewells, Radio Netherlands. He is the current correspondent for Reuters 
 He holds first  MA with honors in International  Relations and a  candidate for second master in International Peace studies and Conflict  Resolution from the University of Liberia.