By: Godgift Harris
The Minister of Information, Jerolinmek Matthew Piah, has disclosed that the Government of Liberia will continue to deliver on its commitment to improve the lives of Liberians through targeted interventions across fisheries, infrastructure, health, identification and international diplomacy.
Speaking at recent regular press briefing, Minister Piah highlighted several significant milestones achieved under the leadership of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai.
In a major relief for artisanal fishermen, the Government has announced reductions in annual license fees for all fishing canoes, effective January 1, 2026.
Paddle canoes: USD 30 down from USD 50, 1 15 horsepower engines: USD 175 down from USD 250
Noting that 16–40 horsepower engines, USD 350 down from USD 450
The announcement was made by Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung during the commissioning of Liberia’s first semi-industrial fiberglass fishing vessel, the SEA KING.
Minister Piah emphasized that this fee reduction reflects the Government’s dedication to easing the financial burdens on hardworking Liberians.
The Government, through the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Authority (NaFAA), proudly unveiled the SEA KING, Liberia’s first semi-industrial fishing vessel.
Procured under the World Bank-funded Liberia Sustainable Management of Fisheries Project (LSMFP), this Liberian- owned vessel marks an historic step in expanding fishing capacity, creating jobs, and enhancing revenue generation.
NaFAA also showcased 23 locally manufactured fiberglass Kru and Fanti canoes, designed to support artisanal fisheries, improve safety at sea, and promote climate-smart fishing practices.
The vessel, constructed in Oman from environmentally friendly materials, has a gross registered tonnage of approximately 200 tons and measures 23 meters in length.
The National Identification Registry (NIR), in collaboration with the World Bank and ID4D Mission, has launched a technical review session to strengthen Liberia’s biometric identification system.
This initiative, which brings together key stakeholders including the Central Bank of Liberia, NEC, EcoBank, LTA and Mobile Network Operators, aims to accelerate mass enrollment for citizens and residents.
A new schedule for the national biometric ID enrollment will be announced shortly.
Liberia is poised to make history at the 34th Session of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) General Assembly in London.
The country is seeking re-election to the highly prestigious Category A seat on the IMO Executive Council for 2026–2027, a seat reserved for countries with the largest interests in international shipping.
Minister Piah underscored Liberia’s continued leadership in international maritime diplomacy and expressed confidence that the nation will successfully retain this distinguished position.
Liberian women are joining global partners to observe the 16 Days of Activism from November 25 to December 10, 2025, under the theme: “UNiTE to End Digital Violence Against All Women and Girls.”
The campaign highlights the growing threat of online abuse and reinforces the Government’s commitment to digital safety and gender equality, including pending legislation on cybercrime protection.
The Liberia Electricity Corporation (LEC), in partnership with Chris Electronic Company, is expanding electricity access to Bentol City and surrounding areas.
After 40 years of darkness, residents are set to enjoy reliable power connections in time for the holiday season a major achievement for the Government’s nationwide electrification initiative.
In partnership with Indian dental experts, the Ministry of Health will launch Dental Hygiene and Dental Technician Programs at the Tubman National Institute of Medical Arts (TNIMA).
These programs aim to build Liberia’s pool of skilled dental professionals and provide hands-on training in oral health care, prosthodontics, and orthodontics.
The Liberia Water and Sewer Corporation (LWSC) has begun installing prepaid water meters for flat-rate customers, transitioning from the outdated flat-rate system.
This move ensures customers pay only for what they consume, improving efficiency and affordability in water supply services.
President Joseph Nyuma Boakai will participate in the 17th MEDays Forum in Tangier, Morocco, from November 26–28, 2025.
The President is set to be the first of five heads of state to speak and will be honored with the prestigious Grand Prix MEDays Award, recognizing his leadership in democratic governance, national renewal, peace and regional cooperation.
Liberia now joins a distinguished group of African leaders who have received this international accolade.
The 7th AU-EU Summit, held in Luanda, Angola on November 24–25, 2025, celebrated 25 years of collaboration between Africa and Europe.
The summit’s theme “Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism” underscored opportunities for economic growth, regional integration, and youth empowerment.
He said reflecting the Government’s commitment to international partnership for national development.
Minister Piah concluded the briefing by reaffirming the Government’s pledge to advance national development, improve service delivery
And create opportunities for all Liberians, while maintaining Liberia’s growing stature on the global Stage.