Emmanuel S. Wettee, Chairman of the All-Liberian Conference on Dual Citizenship (ALCOD), has commended President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s administration for its proactive engagement with the Liberian diaspora community. Wettee’s praise specifically centers on the proposed Liberia Diaspora Conference on National Development scheduled for Washington D.C. later in the year. This conference, according to Wettee and echoing President Boakai’s sentiments, signifies a crucial step towards recognizing and harnessing the potential of Liberians abroad to contribute to their homeland’s development. The President’s commitment to diaspora engagement aligns with past administrations’ efforts, highlighting a growing awareness of the vital role overseas Liberians play.
President Boakai, both in his 2024 and 2025 State of the Nation Addresses, emphasized the importance of the diaspora community as a valuable asset for Liberia’s progress. He acknowledged the diaspora’s significant contributions, especially given their increased presence abroad following the 1980 coup and subsequent civil war. His administration has prioritized institutionalizing diaspora contributions and creating avenues for their meaningful participation in national development. These efforts underscore the President’s belief that Liberians abroad have a vested interest in the future of their homeland and should be empowered to actively contribute to its growth and well-being.
The President’s vision for diaspora engagement includes initiatives like the “Annual Year of Return” program, designed to facilitate visits by Liberians abroad and foster connections with their compatriots back home. This program aims to create opportunities for diaspora members to explore investment possibilities and contribute to national development. The upcoming Diaspora Conference in Washington D.C. is a significant step in this direction, offering a platform for dialogue, re-engagement, and collaborative participation in Liberia’s development agenda. This conference builds upon existing policies and engagement strategies implemented over the past year, reflecting the administration’s commitment to fostering a strong and vibrant relationship with the diaspora community.
President Boakai also lauded the efforts of the legislature and the previous administration for removing barriers that previously hindered the full participation of Liberians abroad. The elimination of these “unjust barriers” reinforces the slogan “Once a Liberian, always a Liberian,” giving it genuine meaning and substance. This signifies a significant shift in policy, recognizing the enduring connection between Liberia and its diaspora, regardless of geographical location. The President’s acknowledgement of past efforts lays the groundwork for a more inclusive and collaborative approach to national development, leveraging the talents and resources of all Liberians, both at home and abroad.
The recognition of Wettee’s own contributions underscores the significance of diaspora engagement. The First Lady, Madam Katumu Y. Boakai, honored Wettee for his unwavering dedication to uniting Liberians, both within the country and across the diaspora. This honor, bestowed on behalf of the President and the nation, acknowledges Wettee’s significant role in promoting dual citizenship and fostering stronger ties between Liberia and its diaspora community. His dedication, even amidst personal loss, exemplifies the deep-seated patriotism and commitment that fuels the movement for greater diaspora inclusion.
Despite the planned conference in Washington D.C., Wettee appeals for broader outreach, urging President Boakai to consider holding similar conferences in Europe and other regions with significant Liberian diaspora populations. This suggestion reflects the understanding that the Liberian diaspora is globally dispersed, and effective engagement requires reaching out to various communities across different continents. Expanding the reach of these conferences would ensure broader participation and maximize the potential contributions of Liberians abroad, further strengthening the collaborative effort to rebuild and develop the nation. This inclusive approach is vital for harnessing the collective power of all Liberians to shape a brighter future for their homeland.
