From Monrovia to Antwerp: Liberians Unite Worldwide to Celebrate 179 Years of Independence
Monrovia, Liberia – July 27, 2026 — The 179th National Independence Day Celebration was commemorated not only across Liberia but also globally, as Liberian communities in the United States, Europe, and parts of Asia joined in marking the historic occasion.
Because the official date, July 26, fell on a Sunday, celebrations were formally observed on Monday, July 27.
In Europe, the United Liberian Association of Belgium (ULAB) and the European Federation of Liberia Associations (EFLA) hosted a July 26 event in Antwerp, Belgium, from July 25–27, 2026. The gathering brought together Liberians from across Europe, with Liberia’s Local Government Minister, Francis Sakila Nyumalin, serving as Guest of Honor.
Delivering his keynote address, Minister Nyumalin emphasized that love is the greatest weapon for unity, urging Liberians at home and abroad to put aside divisions and embrace reconciliation.
“After all the ugly and bitter past over the years, it is now time for Liberians to celebrate this 179th Independence Day with a renewed spirit of oneness of purpose,” he stated.
Minister Nyumalin highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts toward national healing, including the respectful reburial of former Presidents William R. Tolbert, Jr. and Samuel K. Doe, Sr., as well as a national apology for the countless lives lost during Liberia’s 14-year civil war.
He further noted Liberia’s progress under President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., citing legislative and structural reforms under the ARREST Agenda for Inclusive Development (AAID), with a strong focus on infrastructure, governance, and strategic partnerships.
On the global stage, Minister Nyumalin celebrated Liberia’s election to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, describing it as a testament to the nation’s regained status and commitment to sustainable peace and responsible leadership.
He called on Liberians in the Diaspora to leverage their strategic positioning, technology, and expertise to support national reconstruction. He encouraged a shift from emergency remittances to sustainable investments in local enterprises, agribusiness, retail, and technology start-ups, as well as partnerships with universities, hospitals, and civil service institutions.
“Liberians in the Diaspora serve as foundational pillars and engines for national reconstruction, economic survival, and social progress. Your contributions transcend mere financial aid, spanning direct economic investments, skills transfer, and political advocacy,” Minister Nyumalin affirmed.
He concluded by urging Diaspora Liberians to champion transparent governance, unity, and reconciliation, stressing that Liberia’s future depends on collective effort both at home and abroad.
