A U.S. Congressional Delegation from Rhode Island, led by Senator Jack Reed and Congressman Gabe Amo, visited Liberia last week to reinforce the longstanding relationship between Rhode Island and Liberia. The visit focused on the shared history and ongoing connections between the two communities.
During their time in Liberia, the delegation met with several senior government officials, including Vice President Jeremiah Koung and Acting Education Minister Nyekeh Forkpa. The meetings addressed changes in the U.S.–Liberia relationship, developments in Liberia’s education sector, and potential areas for future cooperation. In addition to government leaders, the delegation also spoke with civil society representatives from organizations such as Plan International Liberia, World Food Programme, Chemonics, FHI360, ABT Associates, and Catholic Relief Services.
Security discussions were held with National Security Advisor Kofi Woods; Military Advisor to the President Major General (Retired) Daniel Ziankahn; Minister of National Defense Brigadier General (Retired) Geraldine George; Inspector General of Police Gregory Coleman; and Armed Forces of Liberia Chief of Staff Major General Davidson Forleh at AFL Headquarters.
The group toured Firestone Liberia and visited the National Public Health Reference Laboratory in Margibi County to learn about commercial agriculture and public health infrastructure in Liberia. They also participated in a live radio interview on OK FM Radio with broadcaster Clarence Jackson to discuss the historical ties between Rhode Island and Liberia as well as contributions from Liberians living in Rhode Island.
Cultural engagements included visits to Monrovia’s National Museum—where they met Deputy Minister for Cultural Affairs and Tourism Kadiatu Konteh-Brohiri—and Providence Baptist Church, which is known as the site where Liberia declared independence in 1847.
Rhode Island has a significant Liberian community that continues to contribute to local schools, businesses, and civic activities while maintaining close links with families in Liberia. The visit highlighted these ongoing relationships.
At the end of their trip, Senator Reed and Congressman Amo stated: "We are grateful for the warm welcome extended by our Liberian hosts—their leaders and people alike—and look forward to deepening this historic partnership."