By Lewis S. Teh
MONROVIA, Liberia, September 1, 2026: Association of Evangelicals of Liberia (AEL) President Bishop Robert Bimba has called for stronger ties between Liberia and Israel, with increased cooperation in agriculture, education and faith-based initiatives.
Bimba made the call following a meeting with Israeli Ambassador to Ghana Roey Gilad at the Israeli Embassy in Accra, Ghana.
The AEL President, who also serves as External Director for the Israel Allies Foundation in Liberia and President of the Community of Hope Agriculture Project (CHAP), said the engagement explored opportunities to deepen cooperation between Liberia and Israel.
Discussions focused on the role of faith communities and government in promoting development, agricultural transformation and educational opportunities.
Bimba expressed appreciation for the Ambassador’s reception and said he was optimistic that the engagement would contribute to stronger relations between Liberia, Israel and the evangelical community.
Agriculture featured prominently in the discussions, with Bimba highlighting Liberia’s agricultural potential and presenting a sample of Liberian rice to Ambassador Gilad.
The meeting also discussed efforts to expand agricultural activities in Liberia, including a proposed dairy farming initiative.
A special presentation was made to Ambassador Gilad on behalf of Liberian children by Robert Fruitful Bimba, while the Ambassador presented a gift to the Association of Evangelicals of Liberia.
Ambassador Urges Development
During the meeting, Ambassador Gilad encouraged Liberians to make use of available resources, opportunities and networks to contribute to the country’s development and support one another.
Bimba also thanked the African Strategic Discipleship Movement (ASDM), particularly Apostle Samuel Gakape of the Church of Pentecost, for supporting the engagement.
The AEL President further called for continued prayers for peace in Jerusalem and Israel, citing Psalm 122:6: “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem.”
Bimba also appealed to President Joseph Nyuma Boakai to consider joining AEL executives on an official visit to Israel in 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen relations between the two countries.
He cited Liberia’s historic relationship with Israel and the country’s role in supporting the establishment of the Jewish state at the United Nations.
According to Bimba, stronger Liberia-Israel relations could create opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, education, youth development, religious pilgrimage and other areas of mutual interest.
The AEL said it represents about one million evangelicals across Liberia and provides spiritual and community-based services throughout the country.
The association also reported that on August 18 it distributed 2,500 solar-powered Gospel lights to pastors and church leaders across Liberia.
Bimba said the engagement with Ambassador Gilad forms part of efforts to use faith-based diplomacy to strengthen international partnerships while pursuing development opportunities for Liberia.
