MONROVIA — In a bold step toward revitalizing Liberia’s maritime and industrial sectors, the National Port Authority (NPA) has entered into a transformative partnership with Korea’s MakeGroup to establish a state-of-the-art multi-user hub for shipbuilding, maintenance, and a fully integrated shipyard within the Ports of Monrovia and Buchanan.
The landmark agreement was the centerpiece of a high-level meeting held today in Monrovia between NPA’s management and a ten-member delegation from MakeGroup, led by its chairman, Mr. James Juhee Han.
Welcoming the delegation, NPA Managing Director Sekou A. M. Dukuly hailed the collaboration as a game-changer for Liberia’s economy. “We are grateful to MakeGroup Korea for choosing the NPA—the gateway to Liberia’s economy—for such a historic investment,” he said. “This initiative aligns perfectly with President Joseph Nyuma Boakai’s vision for a resilient and inclusive economy that empowers citizens through sustainable job creation.”
Director Dukuly emphasized that under his administration, the NPA remains committed to transparency, accountability, and operational excellence. He noted that the partnership will serve as a major pillar in ongoing port development reforms and Liberia’s broader economic agenda.
Speaking on behalf of the MakeGroup delegation, Chairman James Juhee Han expressed strong interest in Liberia’s maritime potential. “We are here to explore opportunities for development in the sector. Our goal is to partner with the NPA to advance port infrastructure and provide job and training opportunities for thousands of Liberians,” he stated.
Mr. Han described the envisioned shipyard and hub as a value-chain project with transformative economic implications.
“This development is expected to increase Liberia’s GDP by an estimated 5% and directly create over 3,000 jobs. It is a strategic investment in national growth, skill-building, and global competitiveness.”
The proposed multi-user hub will serve as a critical facility for shipbuilding and ship cycling operations, significantly enhancing Liberia’s maritime capabilities. Construction is anticipated to commence within three months.
As part of its broader mandate, the NPA reaffirmed its dedication to driving innovation, expanding international collaboration, and advancing infrastructure that supports national progress.
If successfully executed, the NPA-MakeGroup shipyard project will mark a new era in Liberia’s industrial development and position the country as a regional leader in maritime operations.
