Liberia has begun preparations for its 180th Independence Anniversary in 2027, following the launch of an implementation document by Liberia's Ambassador to France, Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay Sr. The document was unveiled on November 7, 2026, at the Embassy of Liberia in Paris, setting the framework for a series of commemorative activities. The three-day celebration is scheduled for July 23-25, 2027, under the theme "The Oak-Centennial: 180 Years of Nationhood."
The initiative aims to transform the historic anniversary into a platform for national unity, cultural diplomacy, international visibility, investment promotion, and sustainable development. The celebration will seek to strengthen engagement with the Liberian diaspora and deepen bilateral and multilateral partnerships, particularly between Liberia and France. A major component of the proposed activities is a Liberia-France Business and Investment Forum scheduled for July 9, 2027.
The Liberia-France Business and Investment Forum will bring together business leaders, investors, entrepreneurs, financial institutions, and development partners from both countries to explore trade opportunities, investment prospects, and economic partnerships. The forum is expected to showcase Liberia's economic potential, promote tourism, and encourage greater private-sector participation. This will help translate diplomatic relations into practical economic opportunities.
The three-day anniversary program will also feature a grand cultural gala and an international sporting event to showcase Liberia's cultural heritage, national identity, and sporting talent. Organizers anticipate participation from Liberians residing in France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, Spain, Cyprus, and other European countries. The involvement of the Embassy of Liberia in Paris and Liberia's Permanent Delegation to UNESCO is expected to strengthen the cultural diplomacy and international cooperation components of the celebration.
The initiative is being spearheaded by the Federation of Liberian Associations in France (FLAF) and the European Federation of Liberian Associations (EFLA), in partnership with the Embassy of Liberia in Paris and Liberia's Permanent Delegation to UNESCO. At the launch, the Embassy's Deputy Chief of Mission, Emmanuel Saye Larmeh, delivered the opening remarks, while FLAF President William Wesseh Broh presented the implementation document.
Ambassador Yorlay also highlighted Liberia's forthcoming Presidency of the United Nations Security Council in December 2026, calling for national and diaspora support. He outlined five strategic priorities, including Women, Peace and Security, and Youth, Peace and Security. Other priorities include addressing climate change, natural-resource governance, and conflict; strengthening regional cooperation; and advocating UN Security Council reforms.
As Liberia approaches its 180th Independence Anniversary, the Paris initiative is expected to connect the country's historical achievements with its contemporary development aspirations. The success of the celebration will be measured by the partnerships established, investment opportunities generated, and lasting contributions made to Liberia's development. The Embassy of Liberia in Paris reaffirmed its commitment to working with FLAF, EFLA, and other stakeholders to ensure an inclusive and memorable celebration.
Key points
- The three-day celebration will feature a Liberia-France Business and Investment Forum, a cultural gala, and an international sporting event.
- The initiative aims to strengthen engagement with the Liberian diaspora and deepen bilateral and multilateral partnerships.
- Liberia's Ambassador to France, Dr. Teeko Tozay Yorlay Sr., launched the implementation document for the 180th Independence Anniversary celebrations.
