The Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer of the Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA), Cllr. Neto Zarzar Lighe, Sr., on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, accompanied the Chargé d’Affaires of the United States Embassy near Monrovia, Mr. Joseph Zadrozny, on an acquaintance visit to the Liberia Maritime Training Institute (LMTI).
The visit offered the U.S. diplomat an opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the institute’s operations and training programs, which play a pivotal role in preparing Liberia’s maritime workforce for global competitiveness.
In remarks during the tour, Commissioner Lighe underscored LMTI’s contribution to producing highly skilled professionals capable of meeting international standards. He reaffirmed LiMA’s commitment to expanding access to maritime education, particularly for young Liberians, stressing that the goal is not only to provide training but also to create sustainable career pathways that transform lives and strengthen communities.
Mr. Zadrozny expressed admiration for the institute’s progress and praised the discipline and dedication of the cadets. He encouraged the students to remain resilient and focused as they pursue careers that will contribute meaningfully to Liberia’s national development.
The Liberia Maritime Training Institute has emerged as a cornerstone in advancing Liberia’s maritime sector through capacity building and human resource development. Its programs are designed to ensure that Liberian professionals remain competitive in the global shipping industry, reinforcing the country’s reputation as a leading flag state.
Adding perspective on the institute’s transformation, Mr. Elain Cohen, a senior official of the Liberia International Shipping and Corporate Registry (LISCR), highlighted LISCR’s longstanding role in Liberia’s development.
He noted that LISCR, in partnership with LiMA, spearheaded the redevelopment of LMTI, turning it into a center of excellence that provides career success for Liberian professionals. “We have always been committed to the development of Liberian youth and their career advancement,” Cohen stated, emphasizing LISCR’s dedication to sustaining the institute’s growth.
The visit by the U.S. Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires underscores international recognition of Liberia’s efforts to strengthen its maritime sector. It also reflects growing partnerships aimed at enhancing education, workforce development, and institutional capacity in a sector critical to Liberia’s economy and global trade presence.
