By Sara Camara
MONROVIA, LIBERIA – A pervasive sense of frustration is gripping Liberia’s small business community and informal sector, as a cross-section of operators decries the government’s perceived failure to enforce its own Liberianization policy. These Liberian entrepreneurs claim that foreign nationals are increasingly dominating economic sectors explicitly reserved for citizens, stifling local growth and opportunity.
Small business owners, petit traders, and informal sector operators across key markets are collectively calling on the Liberian government to ensure the “Liberianization Policy” is effectively implemented. This policy is intended to forbid foreigners from operating and owning certain businesses designated exclusively for Liberians.
The group highlighted disparities with other African nations, noting that countries like Tanzania explicitly ban foreigners from operating certain types of businesses, while Ghana and others reserve specific sectors exclusively for their nationals. “What does not happen in other African nations can happen in Liberia at will,” a collective sentiment expressed by the frustrated business owners, underscores their feeling of vulnerability.
Anna Kollie, a trader at Waterside market, voiced her strong disapproval, stating, “It is wrong.” Her sentiments were echoed by David Johnson from Duala Market, who emphasized the widespread nature of the problem.
According to the business owners, foreigners are currently operating in roles traditionally reserved for Liberians, including shop ownership, sand mining, local artisanal mining, fishing, and street vending. Joshua Davies, a street vendor on Broad Street, lamented the situation, asserting, “Nothing in Liberia seeks nor protects local Liberian businesses.”
In light of their mounting concerns, the affected group has issued a direct appeal to the Minister of Commerce, urging immediate intervention to rectify the perceived imbalances and ensure the liberianization policy is effectively implemented.
The widespread discontent extends beyond the borders, as Liberian professionals in the diaspora also express dismay over the allocation of essential contracts and concessions to foreign entities, even when competent and qualified Liberians are available. Sam Collins, a Liberian professional residing in the United States, specifically cited the recent contract concerning traffic management as a prime example. Collins emphasized that such contracts, particularly those involving national data management, could be handled by Liberians and pose potential security risks when entrusted to foreign hands, calling the decision “frustrating and potentially dangerous.”
