The African Development Bank (AFDB) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) are exploring new opportunities to support youth entrepreneurship in Liberia, according to Youth and Sports Minister Atty. Cornelia Kruah.
Speaking at a recent engagement, Minister Kruah emphasized the importance of aligning international partnerships with national priorities to empower young Liberians.
She noted that UNFPA is seeking greater collaboration with the ministry’s bureaus of Sports and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), particularly by integrating adolescent sexual and reproductive health (ASRH) programs into broader youth development initiatives.
“UNFPA’s work in more than 150 countries focuses on ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person can fulfill their potential,” Kruah said. “We are excited to explore how these goals can be linked with sports and vocational training to create pathways for young people.”
The event also featured entrepreneur Mahmud Johnson, who shared insights from his own journey, underscoring the value of mentorship and practical experience in shaping successful youth enterprises.
Minister Kruah highlighted ongoing efforts to reform Liberia’s TVET programs, beginning with a model at the Monrovia Vocational Training Center (MVTC). The initiative aims to establish clear pathways for young people to acquire skills, access opportunities, and contribute to national development.
Donors and partners were presented with the ministry’s vision for bold reforms in TVET, designed to strengthen institutional capacity and expand opportunities for Liberian youth. Internal engagements with the Youth Bureau are also underway to ensure alignment and effective implementation.
The collaboration between AFDB, UNFPA, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports signals a growing commitment to harnessing international expertise and resources to address Liberia’s pressing challenges of youth unemployment and limited access to skills training.
