PHOTO: The Author
By Austin S Fallah – A True Son of Liberia, Africa and the Planet Earth Soil
The four months of news coming out of the nation established too many missteps.
Let the hand(s) that caused the missteps go to save the nation and the people from national and international ridicule.
In the quest for socio-economic development and global relevance, there is an indispensable need for nations to assess and continually revamp the very sinews that facilitate growth infrastructure.
Liberia, a nation with profound historical significance, stands at a crossroads.
As the world ushers in an age where technological advancements are reshaping entire societies and economies, Liberia must introspectively consider the crucial steps towards modernization.
This adda argues that Liberia ought to comprehensively upgrade its infrastructure including, but not limited to, railroads (HPX, AML, current and all other incoming minerals extraction entities must be told this, it cannot be business as usual and dwelling on the 1950s and 1960s railroads shall never again be the way of life of our nation), bridges, roads, educational systems, rule of law, way of life, human capital, and renewable energy installations, if it is to be at par with global standards and adept to thrive not only in the 21st century but also for the oncoming 22nd century.
Critical Infrastructural Pillars- A Roadmap to Modernity:
The foundation of modern infrastructure in Liberia should encompass the simultaneous development of the transport network, inclusive and quality educational systems, robust adherence to the rule of law, sustainable human capital development, and the deployment of eco-friendly energy sources.
This is possible if our government and its officials are darned serious about uplifting the nation out of its current state of affairs.
The modernization of Liberia’s railways, bridges, and road networks is paramount to stimulating economic growth by enabling the efficient movement of people, goods, and services.
Liberia’s geographical landscapes demand resilient transport infrastructure that can withstand the varying facets of its terrain, thus amplifying the country’s potential for intra-regional trade and connectivity.
Further to transportation, Liberia’s educational system warrants a radical transformation.
Education is a primary catalyst for progress as it equips citizens with skills necessary for innovation and economic productivity.
Liberia can solicit hundreds of national and international scholarships for creative students to learn sciences, all facets of engineering, aviation-piloting, all facets of medicine, and many other modernized human development courses that will move the trajectory upwards.
An overhaul to ensure access to quality education will foster a cadre of Liberians ready to partake and compete in a 21st-century economy, characterized by rapid technological evolution.
In paralleling modern infrastructure with robust governance, the rule of law is non-negotiable.
Transparency, integrity, and justice are bedrocks of confidence in public office and are inherent to deterring corruption and fostering democratic processes.
The government’s adherence to ethical leadership reaffirms the public’s trust and encourages foreign investments, irrefutably critical for development.
These infrastructural enhancements pave the way for diversifying energy sources to include renewable options like solar and wind.
Investing in immaculate and cost-effective energy options addresses not only the growing electricity demand but also pre-empts environmental concerns, mitigating the effects of climate change, an issue no nation, regardless of its size or wealth, can afford to ignore.
The Prerequisite of Government Action and Fighting Corruption:
Government initiative and accountability are essential in realizing these goals.
The Liberian government was ostensibly elected on the promise of delivering citizens from the clutches of poverty and seeing through the eradication of endemic corruption.
To honor this social contract, decisive and immediate action is required.
Procrastination or missteps will not only erode public confidence but will also tarnify the government’s legacy, dashing the collective hope of progress.
The administration must be proactive in eliminating the hindrance of corrupt officials who, by their actions, threaten to bring about public disgrace and stalled development.
This responsibility entails the revisitation of the anti-corruption commission and ensuring the reinforcement or establishment of rigorous anti-corruption measures, proper vetting of officials, and a culture of accountability that transcends mere rhetoric.
The Human Capital Equation and Lifeway Enhancements:
Modern infrastructure is futile without addressing the human capital that will maintain and propel it.
The country needs a strategic human capital development plan that encompasses the education, health, and welfare of its population.
Investing in people’s skills, wellness, and overall quality of life ensures a productive and healthy workforce, the very engine of the nation’s economy.
Liberia needs to embrace policies that nurture innovation, entrepreneurship, and creativity, paving the way for a self-sustaining economy buoyed by its own talented citizens.
Liberia’s human capital development also demands infrastructural support through modern healthcare systems, clean water provision, and sanitation.
Implementing comprehensive and modern water systems will ensure the health and productivity of citizens, a fundamental aspect of economic development.
Health and wellness, directly linked to infrastructure, cannot be overlooked.
A Global Vision- Liberia in the International Arena:
In modernizing its infrastructure, Liberia also needs to adopt a global outlook.
This means not only partnering with development agencies and tapping into foreign expertise but also ensuring that the country’s infrastructure can support international business and cooperation.
A modern infrastructure serves as an invitation to direct foreign investment that can catalyze further growth.
The country must make strides to become an active player in international discourse, contributing to discussions on sustainable development, climate change, and innovation.
Liberia’s voice could be an integral part of shaping Africa’s position in global matters, leveraging its historical significance as Africa’s oldest republic.
The imperative of modernizing Liberia’s infrastructure is an undeniable prerequisite for the nation’s prosperity and a seat at the table of 21st and 22nd-century nations.
The Liberian government bears the responsibility to translate its electoral promises into concerted actions, paving the way for a society built on the pillars of modern infrastructure.
It must courageously weed out corruption and lead the transformation through investment in its people, fostering a progressive and sustainable way of life.
The process is undoubtedly arduous, but the promise of a resilient Liberia, thriving amid a world of possibilities, is an aspiration too compelling to ignore.
The blueprint for a modern Liberia requires a collective resolve to renew, innovate, and embrace the future now.
It is an opportunity that must be seized with urgency and unwavering commitment.