A high-level meeting between the National Port Authority (NPA) of Liberia and the Make Group company of Korea has laid the groundwork for a potentially transformative partnership in Liberia’s maritime sector. The collaboration aims to establish a state-of-the-art multi-user hub for shipbuilding, maintenance, and a fully integrated shipyard in the Ports of Monrovia and Buchanan. This ambitious project promises to significantly modernize Liberia’s maritime infrastructure and generate substantial economic and employment opportunities for the country.
NPA Managing Director Sekou A. M. Dukuly welcomed the Korean delegation and expressed his appreciation for their interest in investing in Liberia. He emphasized the NPA’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and operational excellence, highlighting how port development reforms would bolster Liberia’s maritime sector and contribute to the government’s broader economic agenda. Mr. Dukuly aligned the proposed investment with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s vision for a resilient and inclusive economy that generates sustainable jobs and empowers Liberian citizens. He assured Make Group of the NPA’s unwavering support for this significant endeavor.
James Juhee Han, Chairman of Make Group, led a ten-member delegation to Liberia to explore development opportunities within the maritime sector. He expressed the company’s intention to partner with the NPA on port development and create job and training opportunities for thousands of Liberians. Mr. Han underscored the project’s potential to serve as a major milestone for Liberia’s maritime and industrial sectors, envisioning the multi-user hub as a catalyst for national economic growth.
The proposed development is projected to boost Liberia’s GDP by an estimated 5% and create over 3,000 direct jobs. This influx of employment opportunities represents a substantial step towards skills development and economic empowerment for Liberians. The project is also expected to introduce a robust ship cycling program, enhancing the capacity and competitiveness of Liberia’s marine industry.
The envisioned multi-user hub will serve as a comprehensive platform for shipbuilding, ship repair, and maintenance, providing a much-needed boost to Liberia’s maritime infrastructure. By consolidating these services into a single, state-of-the-art facility, the hub will streamline operations and improve efficiency within the sector. The project is expected to attract international businesses and investment, positioning Liberia as a key player in the regional maritime industry.
With a projected commencement date within the next three months, the NPA and Make Group are poised to embark on a partnership that promises to reshape Liberia’s maritime landscape. This transformative initiative aligns with the NPA’s commitment to advancing infrastructure, driving innovation, and fostering international collaboration to strengthen Liberia’s economic future. The collaboration represents a significant step towards realizing Liberia’s potential as a maritime hub, creating jobs, and stimulating economic growth. The expected impact on the Liberian economy is substantial, with projections indicating a significant contribution to GDP growth and thousands of new employment opportunities. The NPA’s commitment to transparency and accountability will be crucial in ensuring the project’s success and its positive impact on the Liberian people.
