Monrovia, Liberia — After more than a decade of inactivity, Liberia has officially regained its full membership in the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), signaling a historic return to the global tourism stage.
This achievement is a significant milestone for the country, one that reflects the leadership and vision of President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., whose ARREST Agenda identifies tourism as a key driver for inclusive economic growth and national renewal. Within his first year in office, President Boakai appointed Ambassador Christopher Hayes Onanuga as the Presidential Special Envoy on Tourism and spearheaded the advancement of the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA) Act of 2025, which laid a strong institutional foundation for the sector.
In a press release, Director General-Designate Princess Eva Cooper and Deputy DG-Designate Atty. Dogba K. Norris of the LNTA highlighted the agency’s pivotal role in this achievement. They prioritized reinstating Liberia’s membership in UN Tourism, engaging in two weeks of intense diplomatic dialogue and submitting a comprehensive ten-year payment plan to settle past dues, which had led to Liberia’s non-compliance over the last 13 years.
The successful restoration of Liberia’s membership not only reinstates the country’s voting rights but also grants it full access to a host of UNWTO programs, including technical assistance, training opportunities, and funding for sustainable tourism projects. This renewed membership will be crucial for the country’s tourism sector, offering new avenues for growth and development.
“This achievement is a testament to President Boakai’s vision to reposition tourism as a national priority,” said Director General-Designate Princess Eva Cooper. “Liberia’s story is one of renewal, resilience, and rediscovery.”
With its pristine coastline, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage, Liberia is now positioned to showcase its natural beauty and creative potential to the world. The nation, once considered a “sleeping giant,” is poised for global exposure, ushering in a new era of tourism that promises to foster national pride and economic revitalization.
Liberia’s return to the global tourism stage marks a key turning point for the nation, offering new opportunities to boost the economy, create jobs, and promote sustainable development. The government’s commitment to the tourism sector reflects its broader vision of revitalizing the country’s industries and positioning Liberia as a key player in the global marketplace.
