Chief Cyril Allen, Chairman Emeritus of the National Patriotic Party (NPP), has issued a clarion call to President Joseph N. Boakai to prioritize economic development through the strategic utilization of Liberia’s abundant natural resources and the promotion of local industrialization. Allen’s core argument centers on the need to transition away from dependence on foreign aid and towards self-sufficiency by harnessing the country’s wealth in gold, diamonds, timber, and fisheries. He envisions a Liberia where raw materials are processed domestically, adding value and creating jobs within the country, rather than being exported in their raw form, thereby losing potential economic benefits. This shift, he believes, is crucial for sustainable economic growth and national prosperity.
Allen’s recommendations draw heavily on historical precedents. He points to the successes of past agricultural initiatives like the Lofa and Bong County Agriculture Development Projects as examples of how targeted investments in the agricultural sector can yield positive results in terms of increased productivity and job creation. He advocates for the revival and expansion of such programs, adapted to present-day realities, to bolster Liberia’s agricultural output and contribute to food security. Similarly, he notes the potential of Liberia’s fishing industry, given its extensive coastline, and calls for investments to develop this sector. Drawing on the experience of the timber and plywood industry during Charles Taylor’s administration, he urges the government to explore sustainable ventures in this sector, ensuring environmental responsibility while maximizing economic gains.
Central to Allen’s vision is the establishment of processing plants within Liberia. He argues that instead of exporting raw materials, the country should invest in infrastructure to process these resources domestically. This would not only generate more revenue but also create employment opportunities within the country, boosting the local economy and reducing reliance on imports. This strategic shift towards value addition is presented as a key driver of economic transformation and a pathway to greater self-reliance. He emphasizes that this approach will require effective management of state resources and a commitment to long-term investment in industrial development.
Beyond economic policy, Allen also addresses the internal dynamics of the NPP, stressing the importance of unity and cohesion within the party, particularly in light of the upcoming Nimba County Senatorial By-election. He urges party members to work together strategically, recognizing the significance of a united front in achieving electoral success. This call for unity underscores the importance of internal party stability as a foundation for broader national development efforts. He views a strong and cohesive NPP as essential for driving the country towards its development goals and ensuring effective governance.
Allen’s appeal to President Boakai represents a comprehensive approach to national development, encompassing economic, social, and political dimensions. His emphasis on leveraging natural resources, fostering local industries, and promoting internal party unity reflects a multifaceted strategy aimed at achieving sustainable growth and prosperity for Liberia. The central theme of his message is self-reliance and the maximization of Liberia’s own potential, moving away from external dependencies towards internally driven development. This, he believes, is the key to unlocking Liberia’s economic potential and securing a brighter future for its citizens.
In essence, Chief Cyril Allen’s message is a call for transformative change in Liberia’s approach to development. He advocates for a paradigm shift away from dependence on external aid and towards self-sufficiency through strategic investment in local industries and the effective utilization of the country’s natural resources. This vision requires strong leadership, a united political front, and a commitment to long-term planning and investment. By focusing on internal strengths and building domestic capacity, Allen argues, Liberia can achieve sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and secure a more prosperous future for its people. His recommendations, rooted in historical examples and a keen awareness of Liberia’s economic potential, offer a roadmap for achieving national self-reliance and prosperity.
