By: Moses Dennis Bolay
Financial Accountant and Public Administrator
Overview
In accordance with Article 58 of the Liberian Constitution, President Joseph Nyumah Boakai delivered the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on January 26, 2026, fulfilling his constitutional obligation to inform the Legislature and the Liberian people of the condition of the Republic. This constitutional mandate is central to democratic governance, as it promotes transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse.
Through the SONA, the President provided a comprehensive assessment of national progress, ongoing challenges, and policy priorities. However, given the length of the address—a 34-page document delivered over approximately one and a half hours, many citizens may not have the time or opportunity to read and fully digest its contents.
It is therefore necessary to distill the address into its essential elements, focusing on areas most relevant to the President’s constitutional responsibilities and the pressing needs of the nation.
Economic Performance
President Boakai reported that Liberia’s economy recorded a growth rate of 5.1 percent, signaling renewed economic momentum.
This performance reflects increased activity in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, and services, as well as growing investor confidence.
The President further noted that inflation has declined to its lowest level in nearly two decades.
This achievement suggests improved fiscal discipline and effective monetary policy coordination. Reduced inflation eases the cost-of-living burden on citizens, stabilizes prices, and preserves purchasing power, particularly for low- and middle-income households, thereby contributing to broader economic stability.
Legislative Agenda
A central feature of the address was the President’s proposed legislative agenda for the upcoming session of the Legislature. This agenda underscores the administration’s commitment to structural reform and national development.
Priority areas include education, healthcare, infrastructure development, and governance reform.
President Boakai emphasized the importance of collaboration with lawmakers to ensure the timely passage of legislation that responds to urgent national concerns.
The administration’s legislative focus reflects an intention to translate policy vision into actionable laws capable of delivering measurable improvements in citizens’ lives.
National Outlook
In assessing the overall state of the nation, President Boakai asserted that Liberia is “in better shape.”
This outlook was supported by improvements in key economic indicators, strengthened diplomatic engagement, and expanding international partnerships.
Progress was also highlighted in social sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure, reinforcing the narrative of gradual national recovery and forward movement. Collectively, these developments project cautious optimism and suggest that the country is on a path toward greater stability and growth.
Ongoing Challenges
Despite these gains, the President acknowledged that significant challenges persist. Security concerns, including crime, border management, and internal stability, remain critical issues requiring sustained attention.
He also underscored the need for continued reforms in governance, the justice system, and public administration.
These challenges serve as a reminder that progress must be consolidated through consistent policy implementation, institutional strengthening, and national unity.
Addressing these issues are essential to ensuring long-term peace, stability, and inclusive prosperity for all Liberians.
