President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr. has renewed calls for increased Liberian participation and ownership in the national economy, urging both public and private institutions to deliberately support local businesses as a strategy for job creation and sustainable development.
The President made the remarks on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, during the official opening of Uptown Motor Garage’s new showroom. Speaking at the ceremony, he reflected on the expanding presence of Liberian entrepreneurs in the automobile sector, an industry long perceived to be dominated by foreign interests.
President Boakai said his interest in Uptown Motor Garage grew from engagements that revealed how Liberian-owned businesses are gradually asserting themselves in key areas of the economy. He noted that for many years, major automotive facilities such as Uptown Motor Garage, African Motors, and Toyota dealerships were commonly viewed as foreign-controlled, a perception he said raises important questions about local ownership and participation.
Congratulating the young Liberian currently managing Uptown Motor Garage on behalf of his family, the President described the transition as a positive example of generational continuity. He said it was encouraging to see a new generation building on the vision and sacrifices of their parents, stressing that such efforts deserve national support as Liberia strengthens its local content and indigenous entrepreneurship agenda.
The President emphasized that Liberia has reached a critical stage where collective responsibility is essential for progress. He noted that the success of businesses is closely tied to the government’s ability to provide enabling infrastructure, including good roads, reliable electricity, and adequate security, all of which are necessary for enterprises to thrive.
President Boakai assured the business community that his administration remains committed to creating a supportive environment for local enterprises to grow and compete. He warned against practices that undermine Liberian-owned businesses, particularly delays in settling payments owed to them, noting that such actions can severely affect small and medium-sized enterprises that employ large numbers of citizens.
Drawing comparisons between large concession companies such as ArcelorMittal Liberia and Bea Mountain Mining Corporation and smaller Liberian-owned firms, the President acknowledged that while major concessions provide significant employment, the cumulative impact of numerous local businesses often generates broader and more inclusive economic opportunities across communities.
He commended Uptown Motor Garage for expanding beyond vehicle repairs into the importation and sale of brand-new vehicles and genuine spare parts, expressing satisfaction with the company’s professionalism and quality service delivery.
President Boakai also recognized the role of financial institutions in supporting such ventures, describing them as vital partners in promoting innovation and national development. He disclosed that the government will continue to identify and recognize individuals and businesses making meaningful contributions to Liberia’s progress.
In closing, the President assured Uptown Motor Garage and similar enterprises of continued government support through improved infrastructure, reliable energy supply, enhanced security, and policies designed to protect investments and stimulate growth. He thanked the proprietors, partners, and members of the public for supporting the initiative, noting that successful Liberian-owned businesses serve as powerful symbols of national capacity and pride.
Such enterprises, he said, should inspire others to invest, innovate, and contribute to the shared mission to “Think, Love, and Build Liberia.”
