In a landmark moment for bilateral relations, the President of Barbados, Dame Sandra Prunella Mason, has declared that “Liberia is in good hands,” emphasizing the potential for deeper collaboration between the two nations.
She spoke during a youth-focused event on Friday, May 9, 2025, on Bushrod Island. President Mason praised Liberia’s climate resilience efforts, stating, “Liberia is in good hands when it comes to tackling climate change.
This is a collective effort that requires the active participation of all stakeholders.”
President Mason’s visit marks the first by a Barbadian head of state to Liberia, underscoring the historic ties between the two countries.
She highlighted the importance of strengthening diplomatic relations, potentially paving the way for visa-free travel to further connect the people of both nations.
During the event, themed “Voices for Climate: A Youth Dialogue – Empowering African-Caribbean Solidarity for Climate Action,” President Mason emphasized the critical role of young people in addressing global challenges.
She called for a holistic approach to national development, urging Liberians to focus on education, healthcare, sanitation, and economic empowerment.
“Education is vital to national development. It is the backbone of progress at all levels, alongside agriculture, sanitation and economic opportunities that empower our young people,” she noted.
The gathering also featured inspiring voices like Mr. Ezekiel Nyanfo, who discussed youth-led solutions to Liberia’s climate crisis and Janice Smallwood-Malekebu, who highlighted the Liberia-Barbados Youth Climate Solidarity.
Reflecting on the 160th anniversary of Crozierville, President Mason emphasized the deep-rooted historical ties between Barbados and Liberia. Crozierville, founded in 1865 by 346 Barbadian settlers, stands as a powerful symbol of resilience and shared heritage.
The settlers, who arrived aboard the Brig Cora, established the community as a place of hope and new beginnings, supported by philanthropists John and Samuel Crozer.
President Mason and her Liberian counterpart, Joseph NyumaBoakai, commemorated this shared history, laying wreaths at the Founders’ Monument and celebrating the enduring legacy of the town.
Speaking at the anniversary event in Crozierville on Saturday, May 10, 2025, President Boakai reflected on the importance of honoring the past while building a brighter future.
“We must continue to hold on as a nation. Everyone knows their roots, and we all came from somewhere,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by government officials, foreign partners, traditional leaders, and descendants of the original settlers, including members of the Week, Johnson, Williams, Harris, Best, and Mason families.
As President Mason concluded her visit, she expressed optimism about the future, describing it as the beginning of a new chapter in the relationship between Liberia and Barbados.
“This is an opportunity for us to strengthen our democratic processes and work together for a better future.
Both countries must collaborate to empower our youth, enhance sports development, and ensure sustainable growth,” she said.
The historic visit is seen as a significant step toward fostering deeper ties between the two nations, focusing on climate action, youth empowerment, and shared cultural heritage.