The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), wants Liberia unlock its vast, but underdeveloped tourism potential, describing the sector as a “strategic tool for driving sustainable growth and inclusive development.”
UNDP Liberia Deputy Resident Representative, Louis Kuukpen, made the statement on Providence Island, outside Monrovia, during programs that marked this year’s World Tourism Day.
The event was hosted on September 27, 2025.
Kuukpen said the theme of this year’s event, “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,” is both timely, and urgent for a country seeking new pathways to economic diversification.
“Tourism has the power to transform Liberia’s development trajectory. It can generate jobs, stimulate local economies, and serve as a bridge connecting the country to the global community,” Kuukpen said.
Despite Liberia’s wealth of tropical rainforests, pristine coastlines, historical landmarks and cultural heritage, the country still lags far behind in Africa’s tourism rankings. It is absent from the continent top 10 destinations.
Kuukpen said tourism is more than leisure; it is a strategic driver of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He highlighted its potential to reduce poverty, create opportunities for women and youth, stimulate entrepreneurship, attract foreign investment, and promote climate action through ecotourism and conservation efforts. The UNDP has been a long-standing partner in Liberia’s tourism agenda, supporting the development of the National Tourism Policy, contributing to the National Investment Incentive Code for Tourism; facilitating the creation of the Liberia Tourism Board and reactivating the Liberia Tourism Working Group (LTWG). Mr. Kuukpen called on government to step up, policymakers that would establish a comprehensive legal and administrative framework to include investor-friendly policies; improved infrastructure; safety guarantees and streamlined visa and travel systems. He also spoke about the importance of safeguarding Liberia’s environment and cultural heritage to ensure sustainability. “Tourism cannot thrive in isolation. It requires strong and strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors,” Kuukpen added. He appealed for greater collaboration among government institutions, private enterprises, civil society and international development partners.
With limited fiscal space constraining the government, the UNDP believes tourism offers one of Liberia’s best opportunities for economic resilience and diversification, with the potential to deliver high returns on modest investments, while telling country’s unique story to the world.