LIBERIA

Liberia, a country located on the west coast of Africa. It is bordered by Sierra Leone to the northwest, Guinea to the north, Côte d’Ivoire to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south and southwest. Monrovia, the capital city named after U.S. President James Monroe, is the largest city in Liberia and serves as the country’s economic, cultural, and political hub. The official language of Liberia is English, reflecting its historical ties to the United States, and a variety of indigenous languages are also spoken throughout the country.

Liberia holds a special place in African history as it was never formally colonized by a European power. Founded in the early 19th century by freed African American slaves, Liberia declared its independence in 1847, making it the first independent African republic. The country was established as a settlement by the American Colonization Society, with the intention of resettling freed African Americans.

 

 

Despite its unique founding, Liberia has faced significant challenges throughout its history. The 20th century was marked by periods of political instability, including two devastating civil wars from 1989 to 1997 and from 1999 to 2003, which left the country in ruins and led to the displacement of thousands of people.

However, Liberia has demonstrated remarkable resilience, with efforts to rebuild and foster national reconciliation in the years since the conflicts ended.

Liberia is a republic with a presidential system of government. The President serves as both the head of state and the head of government.

The country has a multi-party political system and recent years have seen efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and promote good governance.

Liberia’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, mining, and forestry. Rubber, timber, and iron ore are significant exports, and the country is also known for its rich deposits of gold and diamonds which offer potential for future economic growth. The government has been working on initiatives to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment, particularly in sectors such as tourism and renewable energy.

Liberia boasts a rich cultural heritage that reflects its diverse population. The country is home to numerous ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages, and customs. Traditional music, dance, and storytelling play a vital role in Liberian culture.

Liberian cuisine is a delightful blend of indigenous and foreign influences. Rice is a staple food, often served with a variety of stews made from cassava leaves, palm oil, and fish or meat. Jollof rice, a popular dish in West Africa, is also a favorite in Liberia.

Hidden Insights: Uncovering Liberia

1. Natural Wonders: Liberia’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets. The country is home to several national parks and protected areas, including Sapo National Park, which is known for its rich biodiversity and is one of the last remaining rainforests in West Africa. The coastline features pristine beaches, such as those in Robertsport, which are popular for surfing and relaxation.

2.Providence Island: Often considered the birthplace of Liberia, Providence Island is where the first settlers arrived in 1822. The island is a historical site, and a symbol of the country’s founding, a site of historical significance.

3. Mount Nimba: Located on the border between Liberia, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire, Mount Nimba is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its unique flora and fauna. It offers stunning landscapes and opportunities for eco-tourism.

4. Kpatawee Waterfall:Nestled in the lush forests of Bong County, Kpatawee Waterfall is one of Liberia’s hidden natural treasures. The waterfall cascades into a tranquil pool surrounded by greenery, providing a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking to connect with nature.

 

Photo by Jordan Mcgee

Photo by Christian Jaberg

Capital City: Monrovia

Population: 5,437,249

Nationality: Liberian(s)

Location: Western Africa

Languages:English 20% (official) and 27 indigenous languages, including Liberian English variants

Religion: Christian 84.9%, Muslim 12%, Traditional 0.5%, other 0.1%, none 2.6% (2022 est.)

Area Total: 111,370 sq km

Liberia Embassy/High Commission in UK

Address:

23 Fitzroy Square
Fitzrovia
W1T6EW
London
United Kingdom

Website: www.embassyofliberia.org.uk/