VP Koung launches nighttime sailing at Freeport of Monrovia

By: Kruah Thompson

Monrovia, July 4, 2025: Vice President Jeremiah Kpan Koung has launched a new nighttime sailing program and commissioned modern equipment at the Free Port of Monrovia to enhance port services and boost trade in Liberia.

The event, held on Thursday, July 3, 2025, in Monrovia, is part of a joint project by the National Port Authority (NPA) and APM-Terminals to upgrade port operations and allow the Freeport to work 24 hours a day.

President Joseph Nyuma Boakai, Sr., was expected to attend the launch but couldn’t make it due to a busy schedule. VP Koung represented the government and officially launched the program.

Speaking at the Ministry of Information’s regular press briefing on the same day of the launch, Information Minister Jerolinmek Mathew Piah called the move a “historic step” that will improve the country’s ability to compete in trade.

“This is a new beginning for the Freeport of Monrovia,” Minister Piah said. “With these modern machines and new nighttime services, we’re working to meet international standards and grow our economy.”

The new equipment will help handle cargo faster, improve safety, and support trade growth.

It also demonstrates Liberia’s commitment to improving infrastructure and development through strong partnerships, such as the one with APM-Terminals.

I’m another development information Minister, Piah, said the government is making changes at the Roberts International Airport (RIA) to improve efficiency.

He says the changes include retiring staff who are over the retirement age limit or no longer needed, in accordance with labor and civil service rules.

“We are cleaning up to make the airport run better,” he said.

Finally, Minister Piah said the government has signed a new agreement to support the Assets Recovery Taskforce, led by Cllr. Edwin Kla Martin.

The agreement enables nearly 20 government agencies to share information, facilitating the recovery of stolen property and combating corruption.

“This is about making government more transparent and accountable,” Piah concluded.