Ex-Ethiopian Prime Minister Pushes “People-First Investment” Agenda in Liberia.
By: Anthony Dahn
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – Former Ethiopian Prime Minister Tamrat Layne Admassu has called for a new African development approach that prioritizes empowering citizens and local communities over the exploitation of the continent’s natural wealth.
Speaking at the regular press briefing hosted by the Ministry of Information in Monrovia, the former Ethiopian leader said Africa possesses enormous natural and human resources, but has historically failed to fully benefit from them because many investment models have focused more on extraction than empowerment.
Reflecting on Liberia’s progress, Layne praised the country’s transition from years of civil conflict to democratic stability and described Liberia as a naturally beautiful nation.
He recounted being struck by the country’s greenery while approaching Monrovia by air, calling Liberia “a whole green land.”
The former Ethiopian Prime Minister disclosed that he recently held discussions with Joseph Boakai focused on strengthening cooperation between Liberia and Ethiopia in areas including governance, economic growth, and human capacity development. He described President Boakai as a wise and experienced leader committed to national progress.
Layne also revealed that he met with the Chief Justice of Liberia to discuss opportunities for institutional collaboration and capacity building, particularly within governance and leadership structures.
During his visit, he said one of the most emotional moments came when he attended a dinner organized by Liberia’s disable community, where he listened to personal stories about the challenges facing persons living with disabilities and their hopes for greater inclusion and opportunity.
