President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s recent invitation to the United States government to conduct a geological survey of Liberia’s mineral resources has sparked considerable debate and speculation. Critics questioned the need for a second survey, referencing a prior assessment undertaken by the Chinese government. President Boakai clarified the situation upon his return to Liberia on July 11th, 2025, following his participation in the Trump African Summit. He explained that the Chinese survey was limited in scope, covering only two of Liberia’s counties, while the proposed American survey would encompass the entire country. This comprehensive assessment, according to President Boakai, is crucial for Liberia to gain a complete understanding of its mineral wealth and to effectively plan for its future development.
The President’s invitation to the U.S. government followed his participation in the Trump African Summit, which brought together five African leaders. During the summit, Boakai expressed Liberia’s desire to ascertain the full extent of its mineral potential. This proactive approach, in his view, is essential for attracting trade and investment opportunities. He emphasized the importance of knowing the nation’s resources to effectively plan for their utilization and maximize their benefit to the Liberian people.
The initial Chinese geological survey, though limited, provided valuable preliminary data. President Boakai’s decision to request a more comprehensive survey by the United States is driven by a desire to obtain a complete picture of Liberia’s mineral wealth. This comprehensive understanding is crucial for developing a strategic plan to leverage these resources for national development and economic growth. The President believes this knowledge will enable Liberia to attract investment, negotiate favorable trade agreements, and ultimately improve the lives of its citizens.
Critics of President Boakai’s decision have questioned why the government didn’t opt for an independent firm to conduct the survey, rather than relying on another foreign government. Some have raised concerns about potential biases or hidden agendas that might influence the results of a survey conducted by a foreign power. The President, however, maintains that his primary motivation is to obtain the most accurate and comprehensive assessment possible, regardless of who conducts the survey. He believes that both the Chinese and American surveys will contribute to a more complete understanding of Liberia’s mineral potential.
President Boakai views the decision as a strategic move to bolster Liberia’s economic prospects. By having a clearer picture of its mineral wealth, the country can more effectively negotiate with potential investors and trading partners. This knowledge will allow Liberia to leverage its resources to attract foreign direct investment, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth. He believes this transparent approach will demonstrate Liberia’s commitment to responsible resource management and attract investors who share this vision.
President Boakai’s commitment to economic development and resource management is central to his vision for a prosperous Liberia. He believes that a thorough understanding of the country’s mineral wealth is essential for its future prosperity. By inviting the United States government to conduct a comprehensive geological survey, he hopes to gain the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about resource utilization, attract investment, and create a brighter future for all Liberians. He sees this initiative as a key step towards achieving his goal of making Liberia a great nation.
