By: George S Tengbeh
For far too long, Liberia has operated as an “independent” nation that remains anything but self-reliant. Despite abundant natural resources, rubber, iron ore, timber, gold, and diamonds, the country continues to depend on foreign aid to survive. This dependency has not only led to economic stagnation but has also compromised Liberia’s sovereignty, allowing foreign donors to dictate national policies while the government struggles with mismanagement and corruption.
Liberia, once a beacon of promise for Africa, now finds itself shackled by debts and the perpetual need for external assistance. This reliance has made the country vulnerable to the whims of foreign powers, leaving it without a clear vision for national growth. While some argue that aid is necessary for development, the reality is that Liberia’s overdependence has stunted its progress and eroded national pride.
In four stages, I discussed the disadvantages and advantages of foreign aid dependency with lessons from other countries that have turned the table from dependency on foreign aid to producers and manufacturing of basic goods and services. However, the comments from ordinary Liberians on foreign aid dependency should be a wake-up call to the government of Liberia for a sustainable change.
Stage: 1 – A Nation Held Hostage by Aid
The old saying goes, “He who controls your stomach controls your life.” This is exactly where Liberia finds itself today, unable to function without financial handouts from foreign governments and international institutions. As James, a street vendor in Monrovia, puts it:
“Every time a new government comes in, they beg for money from America, the World Bank, or the IMF. But look at us, no jobs, no roads, no future. Where does the money go?”
His frustration is valid. Liberia’s current administration, led by President Joseph Boakai, inherited a deeply flawed system, yet instead of making bold economic reforms, the government continues to rely on external funding to plug budget gaps. Foreign aid often comes with strings attached, forcing the government to prioritize the interests of donors rather than the needs of its people.
This reliance has led to unsustainable debts. The country’s external debt continues to grow, and although the economy is projected to grow by 5.6% in 2025 due to increased rice and rubber production, inflation and joblessness remain critical issues.
According to reports, Liberia’s trade deficit still stands at nearly $47.9 million, making it clear that the country is not exporting enough to sustain itself. Meanwhile, remittances from Liberians abroad remain a lifeline for many families, further exposing the nation’s weak economic foundation.
Beyond debt, foreign aid has also led to a loss of dignity. Many Liberians feel that their government has become a beggar state, unable to provide for its citizens without external intervention. “Our leaders travel the world asking for money, but when they return, nothing changes,” says Emmanuel, a university graduate struggling to find work.
Stage 2: – Governance Crisis and Corruption: The Real Problem
It’s easy for Liberian politicians to blame foreign countries for their woes, but the truth is that Liberia’s leadership has failed its people. The administration’s inability to create a sustainable economic framework has led to growing discontent. Many citizens believe that the current government is no better than previous administrations when it comes to corruption and wasteful spending.
Mulbah Morlu, Chairman of the Solidarity and Trust for a New Day (STAND), recently called for the immediate dissolution of the cabinet, describing Boakai’s leadership as a “Titanic disaster” that has only worsened the country’s governance crisis. Morlu’s statement reflects a broader frustration among Liberians who feel betrayed by their leaders.
Sarah, a university graduate struggling to find work, laments:
“Every year, they promise us jobs and better living conditions, but all we see is more corruption. The ministers live in luxury, while the rest of us can’t afford rice.”
A report by FrontPageAfrica highlights how corruption in Liberia has reached the level of a human rights violation. The wealth of the country is concentrated in the hands of a few, while most citizens remain in poverty. Instead of investing in infrastructure, agriculture, and industries that could make Liberia self-sufficient, the government relies on international loans that only worsen the debt crisis.
The persistent mismanagement of funds has made it difficult for Liberia to progress. Foreign aid, rather than being used to develop industries or create jobs, is often misappropriated by government officials. The failure to hold corrupt leaders accountable has led to widespread skepticism about the benefits of aid. “They take the money, build big houses, and forget about us,” says Tamba, a motorcycle taxi rider in Paynesville.
Stage 3: – Lessons from Countries That Rejected Aid
Liberia is not the only country that has struggled with aid dependency. However, some nations have broken free and emerged stronger:
- Rwanda – Once devastated by genocide, Rwanda has drastically reduced its dependence on foreign aid by investing in local industries and enforcing strict anti-corruption policies. Today, Rwanda is one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.
- Botswana – After gaining independence, Botswana rejected long-term reliance on aid and instead focused on developing its diamond industry. The government invested heavily in infrastructure and education, turning Botswana into one of Africa’s most stable economies.
- Malaysia – Once a struggling economy, Malaysia shifted its focus towards industrialization and self-reliance. By prioritizing local businesses and reducing foreign intervention, the country transformed into an economic powerhouse.
Liberia must learn from these examples. The key to escaping aid dependency is self-sufficiency through resource management, industrialization, and good governance.
Stage 4: – The Path Forward: Can Self-Reliance on Natural Resources Help?
Ending Liberia’s reliance on foreign aid requires bold action. This bold step comes with transparency, fairness, sincerity, and love for national development. Against this, it is important to outline a few critical steps the government must take if they want to see the country become self-reliant on our natural resources for growth and development:
- Invest in Agriculture – Liberia has vast arable land, yet the country still imports staple foods like rice. The government should empower local farmers with better infrastructure, technology, and financing.
- Develop Local Industries – Instead of allowing foreign companies to extract resources without reinvesting in Liberia, the government must renegotiate contracts to ensure that industries like mining, rubber, and timber benefit Liberians.
- Eliminate Corruption – A government that allows corruption to flourish cannot lead a nation to prosperity. Liberia must implement stricter anti-corruption laws and hold officials accountable for the misuse of funds.
- Encourage Entrepreneurship – The private sector is key to reducing unemployment. The government should create policies that make it easier for Liberians to start and grow businesses.
- Strengthen Infrastructure – Without roads, electricity, and communication networks, economic growth will remain stagnant. Investments in infrastructure will create jobs and attract investors.
In a conversation with Joseph, a motorbike taxi rider in Paynesville, I was amazed at how he sums it up: “We don’t need more aid, we need leaders who will use our resources wisely. If other countries can do it, why can’t we?”
His question is one that every Liberian must ask. Foreign aid is not the solution, it is a crutch that keeps Liberia weak. The time has come for Liberia to take control of its future, reject dependency, and build a nation that stands strong on its own.
Liberia’s reliance on foreign aid has become a cycle of dependency, eroding national pride and leaving citizens frustrated. The government must take decisive steps to move toward self-sufficiency by prioritizing agriculture, industrialization, and good governance. Examples from Rwanda, Botswana, and Malaysia show that breaking free from aid is possible.
Liberia must choose whether it wants to remain a nation that begs for survival or one that builds a future on its terms. The answer lies in its leadership and the collective will of its people. The time to act is now.
