Monrovia, Liberia – Liberia’s connection with its residents overseas has developed into a comprehensive national development platform, ranging from investment agreements and health-sector training to peace talks, charitable outreach, and a renewed drive for diaspora voting.
The head of the diaspora office in Liberia, Erasmus Williams, spoke to President Joseph N. Boakai and other government officials at the conclusion of the 2025 Diaspora Annual Return over the weekend. He described a year full of firsts, including a well-attended Investment Summit, the nation’s first-ever Diaspora-led Health Summit that trained local practitioners in partnership with the Ministry of Health, and a Peace and Reconciliation Dialogue supported by partners like UNDP and IOM.
More than 500 children were fed, orphanages received gifts from Liberians living abroad, and Christmas was celebrated with an annual cantata at Providence Baptist Church, he said, adding that the project took on a human face beyond policy and discourse.
Williams described how Liberia’s National Cultural Troupe greeted newcomers at Roberts International Airport during December for the second year in a row. According to organizers, this gesture has come to represent pride and unity in the country.
“The airport welcome, now slated to become a permanent December tradition, struck an emotional chord with returning Liberians and their children, many of whom were introduced for the first time to their county flags and cultural identity. The volunteer troupe, recognized publicly for its month-long service, also received rice donations in appreciation of their contribution,” he added.
Despite last December’s spike in arrivals that overloaded airline luggage systems, the head of the diaspora office confirmed that the Diaspora Annual Return will continue to grow in 2026. This is a reflection, according to organizers, of growing confidence and interest in Liberia. In terms of politics, he also declared significant advancements in the inclusion of the diaspora in national decision-making.
“Discussions with the National Elections Commission confirmed that Liberians abroad are legally entitled to absentee voting, with logistical preparations now underway. Parallel efforts are ongoing in the Legislature, where bills on diaspora voting are already before both chambers, alongside the formation of diaspora caucuses in the Senate and House of Representatives,” Williams said.
He pointed out that, as a result of promises made by President Boakai and legislative leaders, plans for a Diaspora Commission are also moving forward. The chairman of the diaspora stated, “We are seeing a shift where Liberians abroad are no longer spectators but partners in national development and democracy, emphasizing that initial voting would focus on presidential elections.”
Williams revealed that the objective is to strengthen unity, increase participation, and transform the seasonal return into a long-term catalyst for peace, culture, and national advancement as Liberia gets ready for its third Diaspora Annual Return in December 2026.
Reported by: Prince Saah
