NATIONAL NEWS
MONROVIA – U.S Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Joe Zadrozny says Liberia must take greater responsibility for enforcing its laws, ensuring transparency, and creating a predictable investment climate, stressing that the United States cannot build Liberia’s economy through assistance alone.
By: Kabina S. Kabah – kabinaskabah98@gmail.com
Zadrozny said Liberia’s development depends on the choices and actions of its own institutions, including the enforcement of laws, honoring of contracts, and establishment of transparent governance practices.
Speaking on Liberia’s investment prospects, the U.S. diplomat acknowledged the country’s abundant natural resources, young population, English-speaking workforce, Atlantic access, and longstanding ties with the United States as important advantages for attracting foreign investment.
He said President Joseph Boakai and his administration’s declaration that Liberia is open for foreign business is a strong starting point, but emphasized that the government must build the conditions necessary to attract sustainable, long-term investment.
According to Zadrozny, investors require confidence that contracts will be honored, regulations will remain consistent, and disputes will be resolved fairly before committing their capital.
He stressed that reliable investment frameworks and transparent processes are essential to protecting investors’ long-term commitments and strengthening confidence in Liberia’s economy.
Addressing Liberia’s natural resources sector, Zadrozny called for stronger oversight, transparent practices, and decisive action against illegal mining, including activities involving local and foreign partners.
He said these efforts are necessary to protect national revenue, legitimate businesses, communities, and the environment, while ensuring that Liberia’s natural resources generate jobs, skills, technology, and lasting economic value for its people.
The U.S. diplomat emphasized that Liberia should not focus on choosing the United States over another foreign partner, but should instead demand high standards from every investor operating in the country
He outlined those standards as compliance with Liberian law, transparent business practices, payment of obligations, employment and training of Liberians, technology and skills transfer where possible, and protection of communities and the environment.
Zadrozny said investors should leave Liberia stronger than they found it when their projects are completed.
U.S. Reaffirms Support for Liberia
The U.S. Chargé d’Affaires reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to supporting Liberia, stating that American diplomats, experts, Peace Corps volunteers, and U.S. institutions remain engaged in the country.
He said the United States can assist Liberia through technical expertise, professional training, public health and education support, deeper security cooperation, and expanded exchanges.
Zadrozny added that American companies continue to see strong potential in Liberia’s investment opportunities and can compete under the standards the country establishes.
He said a business environment built on predictable rules, transparency, and responsible investment is one in which American companies are more likely to invest.
