SACRAMENTO, California — President Joseph Nyuma Boakai Sr. has called for bold investments in youth empowerment and peacebuilding across Africa, warning that failure to harness the continent’s young population could fuel instability and conflict.
Delivering a keynote address at the 34th Africa Peace Awards at California State University, Sacramento, President Boakai emphasized that peace must go beyond the absence of war and be rooted in justice, opportunity, and inclusion.
“Peace is not merely the absence of war. It is the presence of justice, opportunity, and dignity for all,” Boakai said as he accepted the award, which he dedicated to the people of Liberia.
The Liberian leader reflected on the country’s painful history, recalling the devastating civil war between 1989 and 2003 that claimed more than 250,000 lives and left institutions shattered. He noted, however, that Liberia’s post-war recovery stands as a testament to reconciliation and resilience.
“We chose reconciliation over revenge. We chose dialogue over division. We chose hope over despair,” he declared.
Boakai highlighted ongoing national efforts to confront the past, including reburials of war victims, a national apology process, and plans to establish a War and Economic Crimes Court to ensure accountability and strengthen reconciliation.
Youth at the Center of Peace and Development
A central theme of the President’s address was the role of young people in shaping Africa’s future. With nearly 70 percent of Sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30, Boakai described the continent’s demographic profile as both an opportunity and a risk.
“If neglected, it can become a source of tension, fragility, and conflict,” he warned, pointing to rising youth unemployment, inequality, and limited access to education as key drivers of instability.
He urged African governments to adopt deliberate policies that integrate young people into governance and development processes, including leadership training, mentorship programs, and expanded access to quality education.
“Governments must ensure that the aspirations, energy, and potential of young people are fully integrated into governance and development,” he stressed.
Boakai also called for reforms in educational systems to include peacebuilding, civic responsibility, and critical thinking, while encouraging the use of digital platforms to promote dialogue and counter misinformation.
Liberia’s Role on the Global Stage
The President used the occasion to highlight Liberia’s growing international role, noting the country’s election to the United Nations Security Council for the 2026–2027 term.
He pledged that Liberia would use its position to promote diplomacy, cooperation, and peaceful conflict resolution on the global stage.
“No nation is too small to contribute. No voice is too quiet to matter,” Boakai said.
He also underscored the importance of strong institutions, accountability, and inclusive governance in sustaining peace, warning that without fairness and justice, young people will lose faith in peaceful systems.
Call for Diaspora Engagement and Shared Responsibility
Addressing members of the African diaspora, Boakai emphasized the need for stronger collaboration between Africans on the continent and those abroad, describing it as essential for development and reconciliation.
“The diaspora can now become an integral part of our reconciliation and development,” he said, urging unity and collective responsibility in advancing Africa’s future.
He further challenged young people to take ownership of peacebuilding efforts, reminding them that leadership extends beyond political office.
“Peace leaders are not only presidents and diplomats. They are teachers, community leaders, entrepreneurs, and citizens,” he said.
A Renewed Commitment to Peace
In closing, President Boakai reaffirmed his commitment to building a just, inclusive, and prosperous Liberia while contributing to peace efforts across Africa and beyond.
“This is a commitment to ensure that the sacrifices of the past are never forgotten,” he said.
The Africa Peace Award recognizes individuals and institutions that have made significant contributions to peacebuilding and conflict resolution on the continent.
Boakai’s address comes at a time when Liberia continues to consolidate its democratic gains while confronting economic and governance challenges at home.
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