By Sara Camara
Monrovia, Liberia – President Joseph Nyuma Boakai on Thursday, July 17, 2025, officially launched a comprehensive book on Liberian tourism, titled “Liberia’s Untapped Gem: Tourism – Prospects and Challenges of the Liberia’s tourism and hospitality industry.” Authored by accomplished architect and eco-tourism professional Mr. Joe Gene Mulbah, the launch took place at the EJS Ministerial Complex in Congo Town, Monrovia, where the President lauded the effort and underscored the nation’s vast tourism potential.
During the launch, President Boakai asserted that Liberia possesses all the necessary attributes to become one of Africa’s premier and most attractive tourist destinations. He, however, emphasized that the success of the tourism sector is intrinsically linked to good governance. “Tourism cannot thrive where there is corruption, insecurity and unpredictability,” President Boakai stated, adding, “that is why his government has taken the bold steps to promote transparency, enforce accountability and security as well as the rule of law.”
The President highlighted tourism as a significant opportunity for Liberia’s economic growth and development. He pointed to the nation’s diverse attractions, from the rich biodiversity of the Sapo National Park to the historic significance of Providence Island, where free American slaves first arrived. As his administration strives to diversify the economy, President Boakai noted that “tourism offers a promising path, not only in generating much needed revenue but also in creating jobs and fostering community development.”
Despite the immense potential, President Boakai acknowledged several critical challenges that must be addressed. He identified significant infrastructure gaps, including inadequate transportation networks and limited quality accommodations, as key impediments. Furthermore, he stressed that “addressing safety and security concerns is essential to enhancing Liberia as an attractive and competitive travel destination.”
The book’s author, Mr. Joe Gene Mulbah, brings a unique blend of expertise to the subject. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Certification in Road Construction and Maintenance. His MBA thesis, also titled ” Prospects and Challenges of Liberia’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry,” served as the inspiration for this comprehensive book, blending his architectural background with a bold vision for Liberia’s economic resurgence through tourism. According to Mulbah, the book aims to provide a thorough exploration of Liberia’s tourism and hospitality industry, showcasing its unique attractions while candidly addressing its key challenges.
The auspicious occasion was graced by several prominent dignitaries, including Monrovia City Manager Jones N. Williams, the Governor of the Central Bank of Liberia Henry Saamoi, Minister of Education Jarso Maley Jallah, Minister of State for Special Affairs Steve Stevquoah, Minister of Information, Cultural Affairs and Tourism Jeremiah Piah, the Executive Director of the National Disaster Management Agency Ansu Dulleh, and host of the popular Drive Live Show on ELBC George P. Lobbo, among others.
