On July 26, Liberians are set to celebrate the nation’s independence as has always been the culture and tradition since 1847.
Usually, we wave our flag, sing our national anthem, and remember the courage of those who founded the Africa oldest republic.
Yet, independence should mean more than an annual celebration. It should be reflected in the daily lives of the people as far as the fruit of prosperity is concerned, given the abundant natural resources God has blessed us with.
A nation is not truly independent simply because it governs itself, simply, because it continues to be counted amongst comity of nations.
True independence exists when its citizens enjoy dignity, justice, opportunity, and hope. It is seen when the country’s abundant natural resources are transformed into better schools, modern hospitals, good roads, reliable electricity, clean water, and meaningful jobs.
Liberia is richly blessed, which can be measured from far and near. Our land contains gold, diamonds, iron ore, timber, fertile soil, and vast water resources. Yet many Liberians continue to struggle with poverty, unemployment, poor healthcare, and inadequate education. Yet we often remain bent on our knees and bowed before God asking Him to bless us. This contradiction should challenge every patriotic citizen and every national leader.
Political independence without economic independence leaves a nation vulnerable. A country that depends excessively on foreign aid, imports, and external decisions cannot fully control its own destiny.
Liberia must invest in agriculture, manufacturing, education, technology and infrastructure so that our people become producers rather than merely consumers.
True independence also demands integrity by getting rid of corruption which steals opportunities from the poor, weakens public institutions, and destroys trust.
Every dollar diverted from public service is a dollar taken from a child’s education, a patient’s treatment, or a community’s development. Therefore, accountability must become a national value rather than a political slogan.
Independence requires the citizens to be disciplined, respect the rule of law, work harder, be patriotic and united while rejecting tribalism, hatred, violence, and selfish politics.
As Liberia marks it 179th years of independence, let this anniversary be more than a celebration of history. Let it become a renewed commitment to build a nation where freedom is matched by prosperity, justice, and equal opportunity for all.
The future of Liberia does not depend only on its natural wealth. It depends on the wisdom, honesty, and determination of its people. When we use our resources responsibly, uphold justice, and place national interest above personal gain, Liberia will not only be politically independent—it will be truly independent.
May God bless our nation, and guide us to achieve genuine freedom, lasting peace and shared prosperity.