Mamaka Bility, Liberia’s Minister of State without Portfolio, has affirmed the government’s commitment to substantial investments in air navigation and airport infrastructure. Speaking at the Aviation Awareness Week held in Congo Town, under the theme “Connecting Liberia: The Power of Aviation,” Minister Bility emphasized the vital role of the aviation industry in Liberia’s national development strategy, particularly its alignment with the government’s Pro-Poor Agenda for Prosperity and Development (PAPD), often referred to as the ARREST Agenda. She underscored the administration’s recognition of aviation as a strategic pillar for achieving national objectives, thus solidifying the government’s dedication to modernizing airports and enhancing air navigation systems. Minister Bility further highlighted the crucial contribution of aviation to essential services, including medical emergencies and disaster relief efforts. She also reiterated the government’s resolve to not only meet but also surpass international safety and security standards within the aviation sector.
Minister Bility painted a vivid picture of aviation’s significance, describing it as the “bloodstream” of national development. She emphasized its role in connecting people within Liberia and linking the nation to the global community. Aviation, she asserted, facilitates business flow, fosters cultural exchange, and plays a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the ARREST Agenda, which aims to stimulate economic growth, reduce poverty, and enhance the overall well-being of Liberians. This highlights the interconnectedness of improved aviation infrastructure and the government’s broader socio-economic development goals.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the Liberian aviation sector, Minister Bility reflected on the nation’s rich aviation history, recalling the era when Roberts International Airport served as a bustling hub in West Africa. She evoked the aspirations of countless Liberians who dreamt of seamless air connectivity to all corners of the world, portraying aviation as a symbol of ambition and a gateway to opportunities for Liberia. This historical perspective underscores the importance of revitalizing the aviation sector to reclaim its former prominence and unlock its potential for future growth.
Minister Bility emphasized the government’s proactive stance in collaborating with regional and international aviation bodies to ensure Liberia maintains a competitive edge in the global aviation landscape. This collaborative approach reflects a commitment to leveraging international expertise and best practices to strengthen Liberia’s aviation sector and integrate it effectively into the global aviation network. This strategy aims to position Liberia as a key player in regional and international air travel, further facilitating trade, tourism, and economic growth.
Julius D. Dennis Jr., Director-General of the Liberia Civil Aviation Authority (LCAA), reinforced the call for increased investment in the LCAA, highlighting its catalytic role in driving economic growth. He argued that investing in the LCAA is not just a financial expenditure, but rather a strategic investment in Liberia’s future, enhancing the nation’s international standing and bolstering its development agenda. Director Dennis emphasized the pivotal role of civil aviation in fostering economic development through infrastructure improvements, enhanced air connectivity, increased tourism, and the creation of valuable employment opportunities within the tourism and related service industries.
Director Dennis underscored the potential for Liberia to become a competitive regional aviation hub. He stressed that efficient air transport facilitates trade, attracts increased tourism, and generates valuable employment opportunities. His perspective underscores the significant economic benefits that can be derived from a robust aviation sector, including its contribution to job creation, tourism revenue, and overall economic diversification. This reinforces the argument for prioritizing investments in the LCAA as a means of unlocking Liberia’s economic potential and contributing to its sustainable development.
