Capacity-building for Diaspora Engagement in Liberia

The civil war between 1990 and 2003 negatively affected the socioeconomic development of Liberia. Over 700,000 Liberian citizens sought refuge in neighbouring states. The United States of America, Canada, Australia, the European Union and ECOWAS countries offered resettlement opportunities to Liberians and their family members. As a result, it is estimated that almost 500,000 Liberians are currently living abroad.

The overall objective of this project is to facilitate the potential contribution of the Liberian diaspora in the development of Liberia. The project aims to benefit Liberia as well as the diaspora by identifying opportunities for investment and establishing relationships between Liberia and the host countries in different sectors of development.

More specifically, the proposed project will deliver the following outputs:

• An effective communication system is established for the members of the diaspora through a diaspora website and equipment provision in the Diaspora Affairs Unit;

• Dialogue among Diaspora Affairs Unit and diaspora focal points in all relevant ministries is facilitated;

• Goverment and diaspora associations in the USA have access to information as a result of a diaspora mapping study and outreach campaign.

• Government officials trained on diaspora mobilization.

• Government officials visit the USA to engage the diaspora on country entrepreneurship and investement opportunities.