Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph N. Boakai has called the fight against HIV in Liberia one of the “largest wars” he has overseen and urged partners, stakeholders, and the public to assist the National AIDS Commission (NAC) in its fight against the virus by mobilizing domestic resources.
At a fundraiser event held at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town on Friday, May 16, 2025, President Boakai stressed the importance of a unified national front to improve coordination, monitoring, and foresight in the nation’s HIV response.
The gathering included corporate executives, diplomats, civil society groups, foreign partners, high government officials, and activists from the humanitarian and health sectors.
This time, Liberians are fighting a war not with firearms, but with a sickness that still kills thousands of people, according to President Boakai. “We’re here tonight to boost our reaction by mobilizing domestic resources. More than 34,000 persons are impacted, and this Commission is more in need of our assistance than ever,” he stated.
He thanked foreign allies, mentioning a recent health solidarity event in Guangzhou and specifically thanking China for its ongoing support. He did, however, emphasize the significance of local control and the long-term viability of national health initiatives.
According to President Boakai, “I want to clarify that I’m not really here just to be here. I’ve come to collect your money. This is an appeal for everyone to assume accountability for the well-being of our country.”
With the promise to personally oversee efforts to ensure the goal is reached, President Boakai started a campaign to raise US$250,000 for the Commission. “We are here to protect our nation, our people, and our time with all of our hearts and hands. “We can lose our health if we do nothing,” he remarked. “Health is wealth.”
“Tonight is just the beginning,” President Boakai firmly assured as he ended his remarks with a prayer. Finding the funds, supporting our staff, and making sure the Commission succeeds are our goals.
In Liberia’s continuous attempts to fund its HIV/AIDS programs domestically, lessen reliance on foreign donors, and protect the health and dignity of every Liberian, the event represented a major milestone.
