-U.S Ambassador Mark Toner Asserts
By Vaye A. Lepolu
American Ambassador to Liberia Mark Toner has urged graduates of the University of Liberia to embrace their potential as agents of change for Liberia. “You are the entrepreneurs, public servants, and leaders of tomorrow,” he said. “Through hard work and determination, you can change the trajectory of your country.”
He inspired the graduates to dream big, take chances, and remember that the United States remains Liberia’s friend and partner.
Ambassador Toner emphasized the vital role of Liberians in shaping the future of their nation, stating, “Liberia’s success matters to me.” Drawing from his personal experiences, he praised the strength, resilience, and hard work of the Liberian people.
During a recent event, Ambassador Toner highlighted that today’s graduates are crucial to ensuring Liberia’s future aligns with the aspirations of its citizens. He reiterated the United States’ strategic interest in seeing Liberia become a model of democratic governance, political stability, and economic growth within the region.
“Liberia stands in a region often marred by political unrest and economic turmoil,” he noted. “It is the goal of every American ambassador, including myself, to support Liberia’s journey towards becoming a stable, prosperous, and democratic nation—a strong partner and a beacon of what can be achieved through hard work and determination.”
Expressing pride in the longstanding partnership between the U.S. and Liberia, Ambassador Toner acknowledged the complex nature of their relationship, which has sometimes leaned towards dependency rather than mutual collaboration. He underscored that the United States has been the largest bilateral donor to Liberia, contributing over $5 billion in assistance since 2003 to help rebuild the nation following 14 years of civil war.
Reflecting on Liberia’s progress, he pointed to significant milestones, such as the peaceful transfer of power between two elected presidents in 2017—an unprecedented event in over 70 years. He celebrated the continuation of this democratic tradition with another peaceful transition last year and noted the presence of two former presidents living in Liberia, actively contributing to the nation they once governed.
Despite these achievements, Ambassador Toner acknowledged that challenges remain. He commended President Boakai for addressing issues like corruption, impunity, and economic stagnation, and highlighted the establishment of the War and Economic Crimes Court as a critical step towards justice for victims of the civil war. He emphasized that confronting the past is essential for achieving lasting stability and peace in Liberia.
The Ambassador also praised efforts to combat corruption, noting the role of institutions like the Liberian Anti-Corruption Commission and the Internal Audit Agency in promoting accountability. He urged civil society to play an active role in holding government officials accountable, stressing that public trust is vital for a healthy democracy.
Ambassador Toner shared his personal history as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Liberia over 30 years ago, recalling the dedication of local health professionals who worked under challenging conditions. He reiterated the importance of education in fostering a transparent and accountable government and preparing the workforce for foreign investment.
During his visit to the hydroelectric plant at Mt. Coffee, he expressed admiration for the operation’s engineering and efficiency, highlighting the potential for sustainable energy development through initiatives like solar power. He reaffirmed the U.S. government’s commitment to strengthening Liberia’s education sector, including scholarships for aspiring teachers, particularly women.
