By: Austin S Fallah -A True Son of the Planet Earth Soil
Liberia, a nation with rich natural resources, stands at a pivotal crossroads. With abundant minerals, timber, and agricultural potential, the country is laden with opportunities that could elevate the quality of life for its citizens.
It is often said that the future of a nation is determined by its youth, and Liberia is no exception.
The Liberian youths are brimming with talent and potential, ready to forge a brighter future if given the necessary opportunities and support.
However, the pervasive issue of corruption among those in positions of power has impeded the progress of the people elected to uplift the nation.
This discourse argues that by harnessing Liberia’s resources responsibly through accountable governance, ensuring that every Liberian youth has access to education, and implementing effective public policies for the common good, Liberia can rise from the shadows of poverty into a prosperous future.
The Richness of Liberia’s Resources: A Tool for Economic Development:
Liberia has many natural resources in every corner of the nation, including iron ore, rubber, gold, diamonds, and other minerals.
The richness of these resources presents an unprecedented opportunity for economic development.
For instance, the iron ore industry has the potential to create thousands of jobs and generate significant revenue for the government and local communities, as was done in the 1960s to the late 1990s.
Also, as Liberians continue to see with the Western Cluster, there is a lack of defined policy guidelines to hold that company accountable.
The rubber plantations that were a backbone of Liberia’s economy in the past can be revived, boosting exports and creating sustainable livelihoods for farmers.
Moreover, the fertile land of Liberia can support a diverse agricultural sector.
With the proper investments and training, local farmers can cultivate crops for consumption and export, contributing to food security and economic stability.
The potential for agro-industrial development is immense.
If supported by policies designed to help farmers access markets and resources, Liberia could achieve self-sufficiency in food production and become a key player in regional trade.
However, these opportunities remain largely untapped due to systemic corruption that has infiltrated various levels of government.
Corruption diverts resources away from the public and into the hands of a select few, creating an environment where inequity thrives and bold aspirations for economic transformation are continuously thwarted.
Therefore, tackling corruption is essential for harnessing Liberia’s resources to promote social and economic development.
Empowering the Youth: A Nation’s Greatest Asset:
Liberia has a youthful population; approximately 46% are under 15, with many more in their teenage years.
With such a significant proportion of the population being young, the potential for innovation and progress is enormous if the necessary investments are made in education and skill development.
Suitable investments in comprehensive educational systems can generate skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and leaders who will propel Liberia toward a brighter future.
Every Liberian youth must have access to quality education, which should be free from the constraints of corruption and misallocation of resources.
By investing in schools, vocational training centers, universities in all counties, and technology, the government can equip the youth with the skills they need to thrive in a competitive global economy.
Furthermore, when young people are educated, they become more engaged in civic activities, fostering a sense of responsibility toward their communities and nation.
One critical area is incorporating practical skills training in the education curriculum.
This training can empower young people and give them the tools to effectively contribute to Liberia’s economy.
By focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation, the youth can spearhead initiatives that harness local resources and drive sustainable growth.
Innovations in agriculture, technology, and even arts can flourish, provided that the environment encourages creativity and risks.
The Call for Responsible Governance:
It is abundantly clear that for Liberia to utilize its abundant resources fully, there must be a fundamental shift in governance.
Those elected and appointed to government positions must prioritize the people’s welfare over personal gain, demonstrating transparency, accountability, and integrity in their actions.
The government must craft and implement public policies that benefit every Liberian, fostering an environment conducive to social and economic development.
Anti-corruption measures must be strengthened, and more severe consequences should exist for those who engage in corrupt practices.
Civil society organizations, the media, and international partners must hold government leaders accountable, ensuring they fulfill their obligations.
With an empowered citizenry that demands transparency and honesty, the government can be pressured to operate with the people’s interests at heart.
Furthermore, creating an emblematic environment, as called for by many Liberians, goes beyond mere governmental reforms.
It includes fostering a culture of national pride and responsibility.
Programs that encourage civic engagement, promote local culture, and celebrate national achievements can unify the populace and bolster a sense of community.
When citizens participate in nation-building beyond voting through volunteerism, advocacy, and public discourse, Liberia can cultivate an environment where every citizen feels invested in the country’s future.
Protecting Rights and Ensuring Equity:
Alongside responsible governance, protecting the rights of all Liberians, particularly the marginalized, is imperative in the quest for equitable development.
Every citizen deserves access to fundamental human rights, including education, health care, and a fair chance to thrive.
The government must ensure these rights are enshrined in public policies and accessible regardless of socio-economic status.
For the youth, this means mitigating barriers to education, such as high tuition fees, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to technology, ensuring that no one is left behind.
Special attention must be given to girls and young women, who often face additional obstacles to education and empowerment.
Initiatives that promote gender equality in education will benefit individuals and unlock the potential of half of the population, leading to more significant overall progress.
Rural areas, often neglected in national policies, should also receive targeted investments and support.
The urban-rural divide should not equate to unequal opportunities, but instead, rural communities should be empowered through infrastructure development, market access, and support for local enterprises.
By ensuring that every region of Liberia can contribute to and benefit from the nation’s wealth of resources, the government will lay the groundwork for holistic growth.
Liberia stands on the precipice of potential.
Its rich resources could forge a path to prosperity.
However, this can only be achieved through responsible governance, accountability, and a commitment to empowering the youth who are the torchbearers of change.
The current leadership must prioritize public policies that serve the common good, address corruption, invest in education, protect individual rights, and foster an inclusive environment where every Liberian can thrive.
Liberia’s abundant resources should be a blessing and a catalyst for transformation, propelling the nation from poverty to prosperity.
As a capable and talented young man, I wholeheartedly believe that Liberians can achieve astounding feats that will uplift their communities and country if given the right opportunities.
Liberians must reclaim their future and work collaboratively towards a brighter, more equitable nation.
It is time for action, accountability, and a renewed commitment to the ideals guiding the nation toward its full potential.
The future of Liberia depends on the choices Liberians make today. Liberians should choose wisely for every citizen, especially the youth.
