-Geraldine George Engages Troops, Reaffirms Boakai’s Commitment to Soldiers’ Welfare and Operational Readiness
MONROVIA – Liberia’s Minister of National Defense, Brigadier General Geraldine Janet George (Retired), has concluded the first phase of a nationwide assessment tour of military installations and operational sites, as part of efforts to strengthen the operational effectiveness and welfare of the Armed Forces of Liberia (AFL).
The tour, which took the Defense Minister to key military facilities in Montserrado and Margibi Counties, forms part of the Ministry of National Defense’s broader strategy to assess conditions within the military, identify challenges facing personnel, and advance reforms aimed at building a more capable and professional fighting force.
During the exercise, Minister George visited the Tubman Military Academy in Todee District, Camp Sandee Ware in Careysburg, and Camp Jones Military Barracks in Margibi County, where she held engagements with officers and enlisted personnel.
Focus on Readiness and Personnel Welfare
The Defense Minister said the assessment is intended to provide firsthand insight into the operational conditions, welfare concerns, and institutional needs of soldiers serving across the country.
According to her, the Ministry remains committed to ensuring that members of the Armed Forces are equipped, motivated, and adequately supported to perform their constitutional duties.
The tour also seeks to identify practical measures to address challenges confronting military personnel and their families while enhancing the AFL’s overall readiness to respond to national security priorities.
Boakai’s Message to the Troops
While interacting with soldiers, Minister George conveyed a message from President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Liberia.
She reaffirmed the President’s commitment to improving the welfare and professional development of military personnel and assured troops that the government remains focused on addressing issues affecting service members.
The Defense Minister emphasized that the administration recognizes the sacrifices made by soldiers and remains dedicated to creating conditions that will allow them to serve effectively and with dignity.
Commends Soldiers’ Service
Minister George praised members of the Armed Forces for their dedication, discipline, and continued service to the nation.
She encouraged both officers and enlisted personnel to remain focused on their mission and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and patriotism.
“The men and women of the Armed Forces of Liberia continue to play a vital role in safeguarding our nation and supporting peace and stability,” she noted.
She further stressed the importance of discipline, unity, and resilience as essential pillars for strengthening the military institution.
According to the Minister, maintaining operational excellence will be critical as the AFL continues to evolve and respond to emerging security challenges both within Liberia and the wider region.
Military Leadership Provides Update
During the visit, the Commandant of the Armed Forces Training Command, Colonel Kezelee G. Gwesa, briefed the Defense Minister on conditions at the various facilities and outlined ongoing activities within the command.
Colonel Gwesa assured the Minister that the command remains committed to its mission of training and preparing military personnel to effectively serve the Liberian people.
He also reiterated the AFL’s commitment to professionalism and national service.
Second Phase to Cover Interior Counties
The Ministry of National Defense disclosed that the second phase of the nationwide assessment tour will take Minister George to several counties in the country’s interior, including Bong, Lofa, Nimba, and Grand Gedeh.
The upcoming engagements are expected to provide a broader assessment of military operations and personnel needs across Liberia’s regional military installations.
Building a Modern Armed Forces
The nationwide assessment comes as the Ministry of National Defense pursues efforts to modernize the Armed Forces of Liberia and strengthen the institution’s capacity to fulfill its constitutional mandate.
Since taking office, the Boakai administration has repeatedly emphasized the need to enhance security institutions, improve personnel welfare, and strengthen the professionalism of the country’s defense forces.
Officials say the ongoing tour reflects the Ministry’s commitment to maintaining direct engagement with military personnel and ensuring that concerns raised by soldiers are incorporated into future policy decisions.
As Liberia continues to navigate evolving security challenges, the Ministry says it remains focused on building a modern, capable, and highly professional Armed Forces prepared to defend the nation and serve its people.
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