Liberian Senate Rallies Support for Strategic Tourism Investment and LNTA Strengthening

(MONROVIA, February 26, 2026) – The Liberian Senate has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the country’s tourism sector, calling for coordinated investment strategies, diversification of tourism products, and enhanced safety measures during a hearing on the status and development plans of the Liberia National Tourism Authority (LNTA).

Members of the Liberian senate, including Grand Kru County Senator Albert T. Chie, emphasized the need for the LNTA in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to prioritize the development of a comprehensive and synchronized Strategic Tourism Development Investment Guide.

The Senate made the proposal to officials of the LNTA during a senate hearing on Tourism Development held February 26, 2026, at the Capitol Building.

During the hearing, LNTA Deputy Director General for Planning, Research and Development Atty. Dogba K. Norris Jr., informed the Liberian Senate about the status of the institution, affirming that the LNTA is established and functional.

He highlighted the successful institutional transition and ongoing effort by the Director General, Princess Eva Cooper, in Belgium at the EU-Liberia Forum to attract tourism investment to Liberia.

On the issue of diversification and decentralization, suggestions were made on decentralizing tourism initiatives by updating the inventory of Liberia’s tourism assets.

Grand Cape Mount County Senator Dabah N. Varpilah, called for the diversification of tourism products and services, referencing Israel’s Medical tourism success and emphasized the need for Liberia to develop medical tourism and sports tourism with cross-sector linkages.

The Grand Cape Mount Senator also referenced the forthcoming Gbasajama Festival and the need for price moderation.

Senator Varpilah linked tourism to the Western Liberia Development Agenda as she stressed the need for job creation.

Earlier, Montserrado County Senator Abraham Darius Dillon affirmed that the initial US$1.8 million budget allotted was intended for the establishment of the LNTA and not direct growth investment.

The Liberia National Tourism Authority(LNTA) is an autonomous government agency established in 2025 to lead the promotion, regulation, and development of Liberia’s tourism and cultural heritage. It aims to foster sustainable growth, create jobs, and position Liberia as a premier West African destination for nature-based and cultural travel.