Monrovia, Liberia — The Liberia Maritime Authority (LiMA) has taken another significant step toward strengthening the country’s maritime governance by hosting a high-level technical delegation from the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) for a follow-up assessment visit aimed at advancing Liberia’s prospective membership in the global hydrographic body.
On Wednesday, January 15, 2026, the visiting IHO delegation held an inception meeting at LiMA’s headquarters in Congo Town, Monrovia. The meeting focused on reviewing progress made since earlier technical recommendations and examining the strategic and comparative benefits of Liberia’s accession to the organization.
Speaking during the session, LiMA’s Deputy Commissioner for Domestic Vessels Registration and Safety, John F. Harvey, described the visit as a continuation of sustained engagements between Liberia and the IHO, dating back to an initial assessment of the country’s maritime sector conducted several years ago.
“The IHO technical team is here to evaluate what has been achieved since the last set of recommendations was presented to Liberia, particularly in light of the country’s stature in the global maritime environment,” Mr. Harvey said.
He noted that although some challenges remain, Liberia has made measurable progress in implementing several of the recommendations issued during the IHO’s 2016 visit. According to him, much of this progress has been driven by a coordinated, multi-stakeholder approach adopted by the Government of Liberia in managing maritime affairs. He also encouraged the visiting delegation to continue supporting Liberia in areas aligned with the IHO’s mandate and the country’s maritime development priorities.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the IHO delegation, the organization’s Director, John Nyberg, underscored the strategic importance of Liberia’s potential membership, particularly given its significant role in global shipping.
“Liberia’s accession to the IHO is essential, considering its prominent position in international maritime affairs and the need to enhance navigational safety through accurate hydrographic data collection and dissemination to seafarers,” Dr. Nyberg stated.
He recalled that the IHO conducted its initial assessment visit to Liberia nearly a decade ago, during which guidance was provided on the steps required for membership. “This follow-up mission is intended to assess the progress made since 2016, evaluate Liberia’s level of preparedness, and identify the challenges that still need to be addressed,” he explained.
Dr. Nyberg also emphasized the importance of expanding West African representation within the IHO, noting that only a limited number of countries from the region are currently members. He said Liberia’s participation would not only strengthen the organization but also help ensure that West Africa’s maritime interests are adequately represented at the global level.
Liberia remains a major player in international maritime affairs, hosting the world’s largest ship registry and maintaining an influential presence in global shipping governance. Through LiMA, the country oversees maritime safety, vessel registration, port state control, maritime training, and compliance with international conventions under the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
Liberia’s bid for membership in the IHO aligns with its broader efforts to enhance maritime governance, improve navigational safety within its territorial waters, and consolidate its leadership role in regional and international maritime institutions.
