The Commissioner-designate of the Liberia Maritime Authority has revealed plans to boost coastal transportation in Liberia in an effort to promote economic growth and reduce unemployment.
During his confirmation hearing, Neto Lighe told Senators about the importance of supporting and developing coastal and inland water transportation networks, ship support services, and ship demolition and recycling.
The lawyer said investing in coastal seaborne transport will lead to the creation of a Blue Economy for Liberia and support sustained economic growth and employment opportunities.
Lighe also outlined plans to increase student enrollment at the country’s maritime training school and provide scholarships for young Liberians to study maritime disciplines at reputable universities.
He said the highlighted the importance of ensuring the safety and seaworthiness of pleasure watercraft and motorized boats, as well as promoting clean beaches and a secured marine environment.
While government concentrates on interconnecting nationwide road network, the Authority will ensure the safe movement of people through coastal transport, especially coastal transportation between Monrovia and the southeast which is safe, secure and affordable, the incoming maritime chief said.
“This multimodal approach to addressing Liberia’s transportation challenges will provide much needed relief to our people. We will, therefore, work to make this vital transport segment that supports the economy of the southeast vibrant and safe.
“This will involve the promulgation of regulations to govern the operation of motorized pleasure boats, and the proper inspection and registration and the issuance of the requisite certificates and licenses. In addition, the cleaning of the Mesurado River as a part of our intervention under the sanitation pillar of the ARREST Agenda will serve as a tourist attraction and social activities by residents.”