Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia has been positioned as a model of democratic administration in Africa by President Joseph N. Boakai, who has called for the youth of the continent to take the initiative in advancing technological innovation and bolstering democracy in order to change the region’s destiny.
At the opening of the 2026 Young Democracy Union of Africa (YDUA) Conference in Monrovia on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, President Boakai stated that Liberia’s democratic journey over the previous 20 years shows that peace, constitutional governance, and active citizen participation continue to be the cornerstones of sustainable development.
Addressing delegates from across the continent under the theme “Waking the Giant: Youth-led Democracy and Africa’s Technological Revolution”, the president said Liberia’s successful democratic elections and peaceful transfers of power since 2006 reflect the country’s commitment to political stability following years of civil conflict.
The decision to hold the continental meeting in Monrovia, he said, highlights Liberia’s developing standing as a peaceful democracy and a responsible member of the global community. Boakai did, however, add that the country’s election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council is more proof of growing international trust in Liberia’s democratic reforms.
“The future of Africa will be determined largely by its young people, stressing that young Africans must become active participants in governance by voting, organizing peacefully, engaging in public debate, contesting elections, and holding leaders accountable,” he narrated.
The Liberian leader stressed that without technological advancement, democracy by itself cannot safeguard Africa’s future. Instead of encouraging young people to become consumers of foreign innovations, he urged governments to enable them to become entrepreneurs, inventors, and technologists.
Artificial intelligence, financial technology, robotics, biotechnology, renewable energy, data science, and digital communications, according to Boakai, are important industries that have the potential to revolutionise African economies and open doors for millions of young people.
Given that over 60% of Liberia’s population works in agriculture, the country’s leader emphasized the industry as a significant source of employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people. In order to boost output and exports, he promoted increased investment in digital technology, agribusiness, food processing, and climate-smart farming.
Boakai also called on African governments to prioritize STEM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics); develop digital infrastructure; assist innovation hubs and startups; and adopt digital governance to enhance public service delivery and transparency.
The President reaffirmed Liberia’s dedication to inclusive development and democratic governance, stating that his administration sees a nation where innovation and democracy complement one another, enabling youth to not only cast ballots but also spearhead revolutionary change.
Before formally announcing the opening of the 2026 Young Democracy Union of Africa Conference, he urged delegates to create workable recommendations that bolster democratic institutions, increase youth involvement in governance, and strengthen continental cooperation through technology and innovation.
